What does it take to run the world’s biggest mountain bike stage race? In this episode, we sit down with Shannon Valstar, race director of the Absa Cape Epic, to unpack her journey from growing up around endurance sport to leading one of the most iconic events in cycling. From behind-the-scenes logistics and creative event strategy to lessons from Paul Valstar and the influence of festivals like Rocking the Daisies, this conversation dives deep into what makes great events truly unforgettable.

# === CHAPTERS ===================================

00:00 – Introduction to Shannon Valstar & the Epic Series

03:45 – Growing Up Around Endurance Sport

06:20 – What the Cape Epic Race Director Actually Does

10:05 – Why Rider Feedback Is So Important

14:10 – Lessons From Her Father & Loving What You Do

19:30 – School, Sport & Finding a Career Path

23:40 – Big Shot Media & Discovering Event Storytelling

30:15 – Joining Cape Epic & Learning Logistics From the Ground Up

33:45 – Building the Stellenbosch World Cup

35:50 – Leaving Cycling for the Music Festival Industry

43:20 – Returning to Cape Epic With a New Perspective