Axians gives Louis Clincke and Ewoud Vromant a boost during their Cape Epic 25 in South Africa. Our sponsorship highlights our commitment to perseverance, innovation, and collaboration – core values that are central to both top-level sports and our organization.
A trusted partnership in a new adventure
Louis Clincke is no stranger to Axians. We previously supported him on his impressive journey to the Paralympic Games, where he excelled with passion and determination. Now, he joins forces with Ewoud Vromant to form a driven duo for the Cape Epic 25.
Their friendship began in 2013 at the rehabilitation center. Louis ended up there after a traffic accident, while Ewoud lost his upper leg due to a tumor. Their paths briefly diverged, but their love for sports—especially cycling—brought them back together. Both competed at the Paralympic Games in Paris, where Ewoud (MC2) won two silver medals, and Louis narrowly missed the podium with a fourth place in the time trial (MC4). “That was a tough pill to swallow,” Louis admits. “But it brought me back to the essence: the joy of cycling.”
Just missing the podium at the Paralympic Games in Paris was a tough pill to swallow, but it brought me back to the essence: the joy of cycling
Clincke Louis
Top athlete and paracyclist MC4
Cape Epic: a journey of grit, teamwork and passion
With that joy in mind, Louis sought a new challenge. Initially, the Unbound Gravel Race in the U.S. caught his attention, but with a second child on the way for Louis and his family, the plan was adjusted. That’s how the Cape Epic 25 came into the picture—and with it, Ewoud. “The preparations for the Games were tough and intense. Now, we want to do something we can simply enjoy,” says Ewoud. “Riding together, being out in nature, and experiencing an unforgettable adventure.”
That adventure requires thorough preparation. Even the logistics pose a challenge: “We drive to point A, cycle to point B, but of course, the car stays behind at A,” Louis laughs. The physical challenge is also significant. “The Cape Epic is completely different from what we’re used to—the terrain, the bike, our physical limitations—it all requires adjustments. But we have each other and help each other. If needed, I’ll push Ewoud up the climbs, and that’s part of the experience.”
After the intense preparation for the Paralympic Games, we both wanted to rediscover cycling through joy and adventure. This is more than just a race for us – it’s a unique experience where we strengthen each other.
Vromant Ewoud
Top athlete and paracyclist MC2
What is the Cape Epic?
The Cape Epic is an eight-day mountain bike race in South Africa, known as one of the toughest in the world. This year, the race will take place from March 16 to 23 and will challenge participants with rugged terrain, steep climbs, and breathtaking landscapes. In total, riders will cover around 700 kilometers and conquer more than 16,000 meters of elevation. It’s the ultimate test of endurance, teamwork, and mental strength.
On Wednesday, March 12, Louis and Ewoud will depart from Zaventem to South Africa to prepare for this impressive challenge. On behalf of Axians, we wish them the best of luck, but most importantly, we hope they have an incredible time!
Axians provides a helping hand
Axians is proud to support Louis and Ewoud in this extraordinary adventure. “We know that Louis is a true perseverer, and together with Ewoud, they form a duo that is not only physically strong but also an inspiring example of camaraderie and resilience,” says Dirk Devoghel, CEO of Axians. “Their mutual support, determination, and positive attitude make them a team that motivates others. We are happy to contribute to this effort.” “Their achievement is an inspiration, and we are proud to be a part of it.”
Just like in elite sports, we at Axians believe in the importance of teamwork, pushing boundaries, and finding innovative solutions to challenges. Louis and Ewoud embody these values and serve as an inspiration to us all.
Devoghel Dirk
General Director Axians Belgium
More than sponsorship: an inspiring challenge for everyone
Axians is not only financially supporting Louis and Ewoud, but also involving employees, customers, and followers through the “Ride with the Champions – Axians Cape Epic Challenge.” The goal? To collectively cover the same distance as Louis and Ewoud during the Cape Epic (around 700 km) by cycling, running, or walking using a tracker app like Strava. For every 10 km participants complete, Axians will donate a sum to a charity that supports sports and inclusion.
After the Cape Epic, a Meet & Greet will take place, giving our employees, customers, and partners the chance to meet Louis and Ewoud and hear about their experiences firsthand. In this way, we connect sport, technology, and human strength in an inspiring way.
Join & share your epic moment with #AxiansCapeEpic
- Join our Strava-club and share your achievements
- Tag us on Komoot and use #AxiansCapeEpic in your activities
- Follow Axians and our athletes on LinkedIn and Facebook
- Always use the hashtag #AxiansCapeEpic in all your activities