Riders health carefully monitored during Cape Epic

Fortunately, only minor injuries were reported for the first stage of the Absa Cape Epic; however, all 1,200 riders at the South African mountain bike stage race are being carefully monitored by a staff of 20 team doctors, nurses, medical administrators and paramedical staff.

Three roving medics on route ensure immediate assistance in case of any injuries or physical discomfort, with the event's very own medical facilities available at both, the start and the finish of each stage. Medical software specifically developed for race's staff, enables Race Doctor Basil Bonner and his team to follow every step of the patient's first medical contact right through to his or her full recovery at a glance.

"The Cape Epic is a logistical challenge, in terms of medical facilities, as we are not in an urban area," said Dr. Bonner. "With our new Bluespier Patient Manager we have all medical data instantly available, no matter where the patient is currently being treated.

"Colour codes alert us to the urgency of the treatment required and we can allocate the patient to different groups, for instance the saddle sore clinic or the strapping clinic for cut and abrasion injuries. At the end of the day, we can print a report summarizing all medical statistics of the stage."

Race organizers said it is the first use of the specially designed system at any international sporting event.