tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47452209705194551842024-03-13T23:14:07.441+02:00Two Old Farts On BikesThis Blog was set up for Tim and I to keep a record of our 2011 freedom Challenge story and for our friends to be able to have somewhere to read what we were doing, we have decided to carry the blog on as we are still doing stupid things that people may want to know about, or not ? So the Two Old Farts will continue.Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.comBlogger76125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-54748925755398889512013-08-13T07:16:00.001+02:002013-08-13T07:16:15.876+02:00Freedom Challenge Scholarship Fund Winners Evening<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-34xxcX3NOU8/UgnBHUePneI/AAAAAAAAATA/lGBTdamWqdo/s640/blogger-image--41209903.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-34xxcX3NOU8/UgnBHUePneI/AAAAAAAAATA/lGBTdamWqdo/s640/blogger-image--41209903.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This photo was taken by one of the riders of RASA 2013 and I think it just captures the race for me, plus it's a very good photo ! Which in some strange way leads me on to the Freedom Challenge Scholarship Fund. Part of riding the Freedom Challenge is the charity aspect and the riders giving back to the communities we ride through. The scholarship fund is a great vehicle to do this. All of the scholars come from the Eastern Cape area that we have the privilege to ride through, it has the best single track of the route. Lets clarify, the single track is cow paths, foot paths, and goat paths but they are great. The scholars come from homes that are really poor, mostly no electricity, (the government need more BMW's first) they carry water for miles to their homes, they walk miles to school, and their daily nutrition needs are not always met. It's not a sob story, it's a reality. These kids through the scholarship fund are placed into a boarding school, they then learn in an environment that allows them to succeed. It's a good thing !!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">On the 5th of September 2013 the Scholarship Fund is holding a winners evening at the Design Quarter in Fourways Johannesburg. Martin and Jeannie Dreyer will be discussing their respective 2013 wins of the Ride Across South Africa with all proceeds going to the Scholarship Fund. Jeannie's win smashed the woman's record by 5 days and she has the 3rd fastest time overall, Jeannie is that quite legend that is an inspiration to all of us, it will be interesting to hear her story.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Tickets are available through me at a cost of R100.00 per person, this includes some grub, good company, and the chance to part with some money as the auction items are going to be good. Please email me for further details, and remember every penny goes to the Scholarship Fund, by the way all donations you can claim back from tax !! My email is andymasters1@me.com safe riding, and good luck to all riders at the World Masters Champs being held in PMB next week, the course is kick ass, Ben de Lange and I will remember the falls fondly !! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-zkgrckS6fnA/UgnBFoHO7mI/AAAAAAAAAS4/osMFQpFdQ7k/s640/blogger-image--2066149984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-zkgrckS6fnA/UgnBFoHO7mI/AAAAAAAAAS4/osMFQpFdQ7k/s640/blogger-image--2066149984.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-36956619949349749042013-07-28T13:35:00.001+02:002013-07-28T13:35:09.006+02:00War Trail done and dusted<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Tim has finished the War Trail, one of the toughest multi sports events in South Africa, he ran 65 km across the mountains in 15:30 hours, he cycled 140 km on horrendous winds in 11:30 hours and then paddled down the Orange river to finish at Aliwal North. Tim was smiling his head off as normal when he arrived, although he will admit he left some of his sense of humor on the mountains and along the roads of the trail!! Well done you Old Fart !!! <a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-2xWCiDAKzzo/UfUB6REOTRI/AAAAAAAAASo/cszEPS97BhM/s640/blogger-image-596523656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-2xWCiDAKzzo/UfUB6REOTRI/AAAAAAAAASo/cszEPS97BhM/s640/blogger-image-596523656.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-41154030155313537142013-07-28T10:06:00.001+02:002013-07-28T10:06:05.059+02:00The paddle begins<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-76SeswEPpog/UfTQ6Uvr2LI/AAAAAAAAASY/AuJpQz8p02Y/s640/blogger-image--970087349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-76SeswEPpog/UfTQ6Uvr2LI/AAAAAAAAASY/AuJpQz8p02Y/s640/blogger-image--970087349.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Tim arrived, slept, ate and took of again for the paddle leg of the War Trail. It was not as cold last night as we were expecting and we were treated to a fine feast at Mklogomabane and everyone went to bed early, we were only woken by the clang of the bell around a goats neck that was being chased by something. We all walked down to the Orange river and a sedate start saw all the paddlers speed of in a very low river. The race has taken its toll on the athletes and only 19 out of 40 are left to finish the race, now we await their arrival at Aliwal North.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-52524070394224338002013-07-28T09:46:00.001+02:002013-07-28T09:46:09.252+02:00Day 1 of the War Trail<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PCpi1yXzAJE/UfTMN8o3iQI/AAAAAAAAASA/zG8W2LzArAU/s640/blogger-image--407505214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PCpi1yXzAJE/UfTMN8o3iQI/AAAAAAAAASA/zG8W2LzArAU/s640/blogger-image--407505214.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Day 1 has been a toughie, Tim arrived just short of 15:30 hours for the day, he had good company for the excursion across the mountain and 5 of them came in together, and in good spirits. His first words to me were " don't even think about entering this one" Tim said its like doing 20 Lehana passes on the Freedom Challenge back to back. It's one of the toughest days he has had on his feet. Tim's hands are swollen and all beat up, but his hamstring has held out. After getting some food he had a hot shower, and now it is time for bedi byes !! Tommorow is a 140 km mountain bike ride up some more big hills, and down a couple as well. The weather looks good, all he's got to do is get up in the morning.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hRreric-Q0A/UfTMPlWA4TI/AAAAAAAAASI/krSePgkKLRQ/s640/blogger-image--1238692579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hRreric-Q0A/UfTMPlWA4TI/AAAAAAAAASI/krSePgkKLRQ/s640/blogger-image--1238692579.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-80462857001452824062013-07-25T20:23:00.001+02:002013-07-25T20:23:38.605+02:00War Trail Briefing done !!The briefing for the 2013 War Trail is complete and the participants are busy checking their GPS's and packing their compulsory kit into their back packs. Tim is a bit nervous, the most I have ever seen, but you can see the determination in his eyes. His hamstring seems ok, he has a little tear, nothing much ! The race starts at 04h00 with the 65 km run across the top of the mountains first. There is no doubt that this is one of the toughest multi day events in South Africa and being held in winter just adds to the toughness of the event. That the organizers are using Land Rovers makes it even harder !!! We will be in the middle of nowhere tommorow without a signal so we will only be able to update on day 2 the bike leg. The weather by the way is freezing but then I am a softie !!! I think the thermals may be compulsory in the morning. Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-84479809890297956392013-07-24T16:42:00.000+02:002013-07-24T16:42:20.517+02:00War Trail<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6SRwiOmTPNc/Ue_lv7NCTPI/AAAAAAAAARQ/dDs7p_s2KkA/s1600/IMG_0996.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6SRwiOmTPNc/Ue_lv7NCTPI/AAAAAAAAARQ/dDs7p_s2KkA/s320/IMG_0996.jpg" /></a></div>
We are off to the WAR TRAIL so that Tim can do another crazy thing, now as a Tri-Athlete, a 65 km run up the Sky Run, over some very big mountains, then a 140 km cycle across some very big mountains and then a 60 km paddle down a very big river named the Orange, no problem for the old fart !!! Just one thing a tiny tear in his hamstring, yes even at his age Tim still has hamstrings !! he's been Physio'd, injected with platelets, iced and given some very nice coffee so all will be fine. Annette and I will be seconding and as the temperatures go down to -4c this weekend at Lady Grey in the Eastern Cape we will make sure we can pass bottles and food from inside the vehicle. We may even crack the window open a tiny bit. After Tim had his injection we took a walk around Ellis Park so that he could see where the Stormers loose their games when they come up to Jo'berg !!! We will try and update from the race, suspect there will not be a lot of coverage, will try ant TWIT as well.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1AddL-vXzL4/Ue_nRm6KmVI/AAAAAAAAARg/svCcHFxsV4w/s1600/IMG_0997.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1AddL-vXzL4/Ue_nRm6KmVI/AAAAAAAAARg/svCcHFxsV4w/s320/IMG_0997.jpg" /></a></div>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-57060326219234485432013-07-04T08:04:00.001+02:002013-07-04T08:04:03.628+02:00Finish day RASA. 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-GVI2E96Cfk8/UdUQPJvcCBI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/8cbM0bK6y8o/s640/blogger-image-934905600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-GVI2E96Cfk8/UdUQPJvcCBI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/8cbM0bK6y8o/s640/blogger-image-934905600.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Well that was a hell of a day ! Left Trout Haven very nervous of what was to come for the day. Peter and I managed to get the navigation right until we got to the screed, then it all went wrong and we took over an hour to cover about 30 meters of bush, brambles and other stuff I have no names for. It was exhausting, silly mistake but maybe the Freedom Challenge was just having a bite back ! The rest of the climb was just hard work and emerging at the top of the mountain was a relief. Then it was off to the finish, just a couple of more hills then a downhill that made you forget all the up hills. And then the finish so glad to get there, my fourth attempt and success at last. So now I have a Blankie and lots of memories !! During the whole ride Peter Stephens has been a star and rock of our partnership for the ride, Peter you are the Man, thank you for every thing. I would also like to say thank you for everyone's support before and during the race, thank you ! Now off for some breakfast. As I said to David Waddilove yesterday at the finish, David I am a wanker but now I am a wanker with a blanket, it's time to enjoy it !!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-rBjzd3ZiKck/UdUQR4MfqPI/AAAAAAAAARA/bdf_-icl_8M/s640/blogger-image--1300136357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-rBjzd3ZiKck/UdUQR4MfqPI/AAAAAAAAARA/bdf_-icl_8M/s640/blogger-image--1300136357.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-28383673612606665702013-07-02T17:19:00.001+02:002013-07-02T17:19:44.871+02:00Trout haven<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-RpqrgwuluYo/UdLvTk-UiaI/AAAAAAAAAQg/RNYZnq8n56I/s640/blogger-image--119469835.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-RpqrgwuluYo/UdLvTk-UiaI/AAAAAAAAAQg/RNYZnq8n56I/s640/blogger-image--119469835.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We arrived at Trout Haven at 14h00 today, and have got everything prepared for the long portage tommorow up SSteyns kloof to the finish at Diemersfontien. I would be telling porkie pies if I did not say we are crapping ourselves, the last day of the Freedom Challenge is renown for being the toughest day. But to get here we had a marvelous stop at Motague where we were hit with an over dose of civilization that seemed to assault you. Vehicles, roast dinner, whiskey and room service, of course we tried them all just could not arrange a massage as it was a Sunday ! We then rode on through McGregor to Kasra, I'm sure McGregor has something good about it, we just missed it. But at Kasra Mmmmm lamb shank, lemon merengue pies and good company from the girls. We left just after 06h00 and had a good ride. Now we wait, there is a bunch coming in behind us we hear so we may have company tommorow, we will wait and see. Hopefully the next blog will be from the finish !! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Lp0AkNv4oW4/UdLvhwQ29kI/AAAAAAAAAQo/VljBJINtZmc/s640/blogger-image--293182339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Lp0AkNv4oW4/UdLvhwQ29kI/AAAAAAAAAQo/VljBJINtZmc/s640/blogger-image--293182339.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-3624220931584419132013-06-30T12:41:00.001+02:002013-06-30T12:41:39.567+02:00Anysberg<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-GMyKvDLEzdM/UdALT6yN2_I/AAAAAAAAAQI/Bov-MnkL1X4/s640/blogger-image-1372070102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-GMyKvDLEzdM/UdALT6yN2_I/AAAAAAAAAQI/Bov-MnkL1X4/s640/blogger-image-1372070102.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We arrived at Anysberg from Rouxpos early this afternoon after a lovely stay at Rouxpos where we had the best waffles ever made !! To get to Rouxpos we had to put the bike on our backs and hump up 1km of mountain called Die Leer or The Ladder in English, it's historic significance has been there for nearly 300 years, now some fancy group of Doctors from Cape Town claim that we do not have access, they even put up brand new razor barb wire at the bottom of the ladder to block us. The Police were called, they took about 5 hours we heard. Anyway the access was opened and we all got through as is our right. The sad thing is that people think that their money can buy the law, now maybe they realize they have to become politicians for that to work !!! Peter and I trekked up and had a really good day, over shot Rouxpos support station by 10 km but at least we got to see the route for today ! Today the rest of our batch doubled up and headed for Montague, we decided to stay at Anysberg as no one likes it here, it's a small piece of heaven, we don't get looked after like some other stations but its glorious. I have never been here before and it seems mostly hikers use the reserve, I am sure there is loads to explore here but not today, next time. Time to get ready for an early start for tommorow, 3 more stops then the big climb, nearly there.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-6sO6hO3S5PM/UdALQTRYr6I/AAAAAAAAAQA/SSvLlmPnGv0/s640/blogger-image-1158052661.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-6sO6hO3S5PM/UdALQTRYr6I/AAAAAAAAAQA/SSvLlmPnGv0/s640/blogger-image-1158052661.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-yLqfbyBegqM/UdALYLTDdRI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/1HoyPRtA_og/s640/blogger-image-1755057059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-yLqfbyBegqM/UdALYLTDdRI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/1HoyPRtA_og/s640/blogger-image-1755057059.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-82690728663435641292013-06-30T12:40:00.001+02:002013-06-30T12:40:17.148+02:00Day ??? No idea<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-EcSD2P70f64/UdALA4-53vI/AAAAAAAAAPw/kNY8jgvptcI/s640/blogger-image-1026889914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-EcSD2P70f64/UdALA4-53vI/AAAAAAAAAPw/kNY8jgvptcI/s640/blogger-image-1026889914.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We left Prince Albert in the rain, it was not forecast but the Freedom Challenge weather Gods decided that we should have a taste of crappy weather. It rained all morning with the wind howling around us, making the Swartberg Pass murder to walk up, the dirt road disintegrated and became treacherous on the down hills as you slipped all over the place. Our hands and feet were freezing. Then the sun stuck its head out at lunch time and all was better with the world !!! We still stayed in our wet weather gear as we did not know if the rain was going to come back, which made us sweat more, but was worth it in the end. The support station came upon us quick and about 6km shorter than I was expecting, a welcome surprise. Tommorow we have the ladder to portage up first thing, just hope the rain stays away.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1HMtDJSaYk0/UdALDj5cs0I/AAAAAAAAAP4/2KBaH6W5eKI/s640/blogger-image--1021223010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1HMtDJSaYk0/UdALDj5cs0I/AAAAAAAAAP4/2KBaH6W5eKI/s640/blogger-image--1021223010.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-55757275806005973902013-06-26T21:12:00.001+02:002013-06-26T21:12:24.019+02:00Prince Albert<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-RS9YLT2HwIE/Ucs9CA6kQyI/AAAAAAAAAPY/hJKU1SpJW84/s640/blogger-image--1166316955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-RS9YLT2HwIE/Ucs9CA6kQyI/AAAAAAAAAPY/hJKU1SpJW84/s640/blogger-image--1166316955.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today was the big day of 165km from Willowmore to Prince Albert. We left at 01h30 and arrived at 16h15. It was a long day, we left early to get under the head wind that was forecast for the day, and we managed to keep away from the wind until about 10h00 then we were hit with a head wind straight into us for the rest of the day. We were overtaken by the other batch riders like we were stood still, they were really motoring this morning and working well together. Then Jeanne and Martin Dreyer overtook me just before lunch at Rondawel. As I was walking at the time the Dreyers took the time to have a walk and chat to me, one must put this in context, they are the race leaders, and are serious speed merchants but they make the time to chat and help all the other riders in the field, very worthy champions and really nice people. And it's Jeanne calling the shots on the race not Martin, she is racing her race, it's amazing what she has achieved so far. Anyway lunch was brilliant and so glad we stopped at Rondawel, highly recommend it. Then we pushed on to Prince Albert where Peter and I have ended up in a very comfortable cottage near the main support station. We are all off to the Gammaskloof tommorow and decisions are being made as to how many days to the finish and where people want to stop. Peter and I will take it a day at a time until we get to the end. At the moment we are about 15 riders at the support station, it must be one of the largest groups in Freedom Challenge history, and we hear that there are several large groups behind us. Whilst this brings logistical problems it has also brought a lot of laughs as well. If to sleep now it's been a very long day !! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-PKgYQKFg7m4/Ucs9FO8YzRI/AAAAAAAAAPg/E0C3CqjEvSE/s640/blogger-image--1649098690.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-PKgYQKFg7m4/Ucs9FO8YzRI/AAAAAAAAAPg/E0C3CqjEvSE/s640/blogger-image--1649098690.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-50887827352772758772013-06-25T14:49:00.001+02:002013-06-25T14:49:45.140+02:00Cold front approaches<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5_yWHKmS9Cc/UcmR5PDt6hI/AAAAAAAAAPI/gdo9qZqwBro/s640/blogger-image--29594859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; "><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5_yWHKmS9Cc/UcmR5PDt6hI/AAAAAAAAAPI/gdo9qZqwBro/s640/blogger-image--29594859.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We left Golden Crust after a really nice stay and headed up to Willowmore very early, 03h15 with the idea to get under the wind. We knew the plan was good until about 20 km into the ride when I started to feel a bit sick and listless, then someone stole my legs. I know they were there when I started the ride, but all of a sudden they were not there when it came to riding up the slightest incline. The day just progressed worse. The wind arrived and blew straight at us, poor Peter could have made it in far earlier but he waited for me to find my legs again. Thanks Peter your a star !! The wind chill was ever present all day, but cosied up in a double bed with an electric blanket on seems to fade the memory a little, maybe it was not that chilly ! Anyway tommorow is a 178 km day to Prince Albert the weather forecast is crappy with more crappy to follow. We can not moan really the weather so far has been incredible, just wish it would sty that way for a few more days !! The Dreyers should come past us in about 4 hours on their way to Prince Albert, it's amazing how Jeanne is riding and that she is supported by her husband Martin is really special, we all hope they crack the various records! I will be glad when they go past as I am fed up looking behind for them, it's given me a stuff neck !! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-24938562142372367042013-06-24T16:24:00.001+02:002013-06-24T16:24:04.199+02:00Wind and sunshine<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--SIJ8iTvhV8/UchWYByCi5I/AAAAAAAAAOw/F_JLrVueqWk/s640/blogger-image--852542667.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--SIJ8iTvhV8/UchWYByCi5I/AAAAAAAAAOw/F_JLrVueqWk/s640/blogger-image--852542667.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We are currently at Golden Crust which was Dam se Drift after a windy ride from Cambria. I have lost track of the days but the previous two days saw us get into Bucklands with my back wheel doing a sideways motion from the spokes coming loose. This sent up a panic in my head but Ben De Lange and Johann Rissik came up with a plan to bail me out if needs be. It's ended coming right by super glueing each spoke and we have stopped them from coming undone !! Thanks to Bruce for bush truing my wheel, he did a great job that has enabled me to carry on without stopping ! The Osseberg trail was a bugger to say the least, it was a hard hard, hard, the river was at an all time low but it was hot and dry. A day never to be repeated we all hope, and the last 3 meter gate to get to Cambria nearly had me falling flat on my back again, thanks to Peter we managed to get the bikes over unscathed, the wind has blown through the Baviaans today and we have been hit with the dry wind and have got in the 80km day exhausted, but the chocolate pudding and custard has made up for it a little bit !! We are of to Willomore early in the morning, then a long 178 km day to Prince Albert the next day, lets hope the wind backs off !! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-BHei7guTDVY/UchWfnjGxzI/AAAAAAAAAO4/PAXaJ3kC5Y0/s640/blogger-image--1666711460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-BHei7guTDVY/UchWfnjGxzI/AAAAAAAAAO4/PAXaJ3kC5Y0/s640/blogger-image--1666711460.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-34064241871501480702013-06-24T16:01:00.001+02:002013-06-24T16:01:56.545+02:00Over halfway<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-33nj_qYJv2U/UchRLaNckDI/AAAAAAAAAOY/PrzcCkFny9I/s640/blogger-image-222392602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-33nj_qYJv2U/UchRLaNckDI/AAAAAAAAAOY/PrzcCkFny9I/s640/blogger-image-222392602.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We have cycled, pushed, and walked over half the distance of the 2013 Freedom Challenge. We have pushed up hill and down hill, side ways and backwards. We have travelled approximately 1350 km and are currently at Toekomst near Darlington Dam in the Eastern Cape. The weather is still holding and we had 34c temperatures, we are all geared up for cold, bring on an ice age and we are surviving, now we just cook and peel layers off, not that we are moaning just feeling very lucky at the moment, the weather has never been this good in 10 years of the Challenge. The hospitality of the support station hosts have been fantastic, we can not say thank you enough to them, the food has been lots and super, a lack of chocolate puddings though !! The race it's self is strange, we are now a bunch of 12 people at the front end of the race, which I am pretty sure has not happened before ! Behind us the Dreyers are storming towards us in their bid to smash records and win the Men's and Ladies race, they should pass us in a day or two, makes you think they are on day 4 and just behind us, we are on day 13, but they are young !! Every day on this race is a big day, but we have several coming up in the Baviaans area, that are making me feel nervous, one day at a time !! One pedal stroke at a time ! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sU-JkF02sm4/UchRTfZhsZI/AAAAAAAAAOg/ZlPc_hbv3OY/s640/blogger-image-1082136314.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sU-JkF02sm4/UchRTfZhsZI/AAAAAAAAAOg/ZlPc_hbv3OY/s640/blogger-image-1082136314.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-68665067619815809972013-06-18T16:02:00.001+02:002013-06-18T16:02:53.110+02:00-12c to 24c what's with the weather ?<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-IYlG5x1xyms/UcBeSlrFKwI/AAAAAAAAAN4/GNspGOVEWOE/s640/blogger-image-1837970619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-IYlG5x1xyms/UcBeSlrFKwI/AAAAAAAAAN4/GNspGOVEWOE/s640/blogger-image-1837970619.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It's been a few days since we have had a signal or Internet coverage hence the late update. Peter and I left early from Rhodes to get under the weather which did not arrive. We had a great ride to Slaapkranz where Joyce and Andrea treated us like returning friends. The rest of the batch caught up an hour later after also having a good ride. We left Slaapkranz in -7c temperatures which is not bad for there, and it got to - 10c going up the portage. I got us lost in the beginning which is why I hate the large groups it puts an unfair pressure on me to navigate, any way after we got the correct route we all got lost on the top of the mountain, and the group spilt up again, as we made different ways down off the mountain. We all got into Kranskop that night tiered and it was here that one of the riders bailed due to his knees. It was also sad not to see our host Sandra and her husband, most unusual but maybe ghosts of challenges past are still lurking ? I was looking forward to catching ip with them. The next day we rode through to Romansfontien which is when we had a 36 degree swing in the temperature, -12 in the vlei and 24 going up the hills past Brosterlea, which we missed as the farm name appears to have changed. We found it a long day at 135 km and were glad to get into the support station, where Willie and his wife treated us to the best supper so far, and the best lamb sandwiches for today's ride. It's always pleasant to stay at Romansfontien. We left at 06h00 after the main batch to climb the Assolberg, which I am sure is spelt wrong !! We had a great climb up and the decent was magic, really fast and a large herd if grey mountain reedbuck running down right next to us. As we came over the hill the Karoo opened up before us just as the narrative said, it's a bit of a milestone for Peter and I and the moment was not lost on us. I thought of Tim and how last year he had battled with mist and cold to get to this point, I missed the old fart !! Any way we arrived in Hoffmeyer an interim stop where we had planned to stop for the night, as we now have a strategy for the first time, we will leave early in the morning to get through to Elandsberg and then onto Stuttgart for supper. The weather is really good at the moment I suspect it the best it has been in the 10 years of the Freedom Challenge, and we hope it holds out for the racing snakes that are behind us, the Dreyers and Andy King are storming along we have heard and should pass us in 5 days or so, they are serious machines !! We wish them well and the wind at their backs. Quick thanks for the donations to the FCSF.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-olI8Q7Y4QTM/UcBdDQ4ShZI/AAAAAAAAANk/5jb_olkkncs/s640/blogger-image-943549571.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-olI8Q7Y4QTM/UcBdDQ4ShZI/AAAAAAAAANk/5jb_olkkncs/s640/blogger-image-943549571.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-42913397126349228662013-06-14T17:04:00.001+02:002013-06-14T17:04:16.841+02:00In at Rhodes<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-dyJa0HlqMHs/Ubsw7QpBT8I/AAAAAAAAANU/Kj97Z9-sdsg/s640/blogger-image--105999579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-dyJa0HlqMHs/Ubsw7QpBT8I/AAAAAAAAANU/Kj97Z9-sdsg/s640/blogger-image--105999579.jpg"></a></div>The last couple of days have been cold, hard and great riding. Sitting here next to the fire at Rhodes one forgets the wind blowing at a zillion miles an hour and the minus 7c in the morning across the Queens Mercy flats. The weather which always plays a large part in the Freedom Challenge has been fantastic apart from the really strong head wind today, and it looks set to be good for the next 3 days, with a bit of luck we will be at Romansfontien before the weather hits. Peter and I have got into a nice rhythm, we say goodbye to Owen today as he only rode the Ride to Rhodes all 505km of it !! It will be quieter without him, but not as much fun. Tomorrow we leave for Slaapkranz via Chesney world for breakfast with Christo the legend, leaving really early to get under the wind. A quick thanks to everyone who has donated to the Scholarship fund, I have been unable to check it for a few days, but thank you. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-c_PHdFizrJA/Ubswnncu7TI/AAAAAAAAANM/bsfA6qffKho/s640/blogger-image--2021012536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-c_PHdFizrJA/Ubswnncu7TI/AAAAAAAAANM/bsfA6qffKho/s640/blogger-image--2021012536.jpg"></a></div>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-47566799709956933642013-06-12T18:52:00.001+02:002013-06-12T18:52:49.359+02:00Day 4 RASA 2013Currently at Melokalanyane, after 4 days of riding, it's been a very cold mornings with my water bottle freezing as well as the gears on my bike, but we are being ppvery lucky with the weather, no rain just abundant sunshine !! The route is the driest that I have ever seen it, especially in Ntsikini, where it is always wet. The support station hosts have been fantastic as usual and the food magic, although I am still trying to find the ice cream and chocolate sauce !! We had a visit from the Freedom Challenge Schilarship kids today, they all are doing well and have just finished writing their mid year exams,please think about donating to the FCSF it really is a worthy cause that changes these kid life's for the better. A couple of tough days coming up, we are leaving for Vuvu at 04h00 tommorow and expect Tim James to pass us in the valley on his quest for two days to Rhodes, really looking forward to seeing Tim flash past us !!<div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-KvOY-AyiIDI/UbinV4Ht3pI/AAAAAAAAAM8/aGXPHAvAMpk/s640/blogger-image--447602836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-KvOY-AyiIDI/UbinV4Ht3pI/AAAAAAAAAM8/aGXPHAvAMpk/s640/blogger-image--447602836.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-7216013795024619752013-06-08T16:35:00.001+02:002013-06-08T16:35:48.323+02:00At the start<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0bQLMTOqhrY/UbNBQMrKDfI/AAAAAAAAAMs/xWFXg5vG8D0/s640/blogger-image-2107220631.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0bQLMTOqhrY/UbNBQMrKDfI/AAAAAAAAAMs/xWFXg5vG8D0/s640/blogger-image-2107220631.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Arrived at the start and its anticipation as we wait for the briefing, number boards are issued and the red freedom challenge tops, Ben is selling Scholarship tops to the riders and I must say it pretty relaxed. So now we are sitting in the bar having a last carbo loading beer and watching the French woman's final, tommorow will come soon enough, the weather is supposed to be wet and cold, but the rest of the week looks good. Best wishes to all of the Ride to Rhodes and Ride Across South Africa riders, ride safe and may the wind be at your backs !!!</div>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-61557216585190158302013-06-03T13:45:00.001+02:002013-06-03T13:45:47.483+02:00Time to try out the mobile blog !!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-V0uRTNQo_-I/UayBnVuqGdI/AAAAAAAAAL8/XH7AQfg4dt0/s640/blogger-image--1097096191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-V0uRTNQo_-I/UayBnVuqGdI/AAAAAAAAAL8/XH7AQfg4dt0/s640/blogger-image--1097096191.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">With 6 days to go before launch time I thought that I had better test the mobile blogger thingy for the interweb gogiemaflip ?? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">There seems to be a lot of the guys wanting the race to start already, it does feel like you are kicking your heals at the moment, you can only repackage your back pack so many times before you have to say ENOUGH !!! The back pack weight this year is 7.5 kgs with 1.5 Ltrs of water, still have to add food and the tracker yet.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Ben de Lange kindly corrected my statement on the Freedom Challenge Scholarship Fund, there are 14 kids on the scholarships at the moment and David is donating R500.00 to the fund not R 100.00, Ben must have twisted David's are a bit there !!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The Backabuddy site for donations is working, please remember this worthy cause and donate, thanks.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The weather forecast seems to be great, on accu weather it says abundant sunshine, well see !! Looking at the cold front that's hit Cape Town we could be in for a wet race this year, time will tell.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Next update if this mobile thing works will be from the start. Safe riding.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-65690593189743347202013-05-27T17:23:00.003+02:002013-05-27T17:23:35.336+02:00Ok time to start training ????<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V57b9YT5pfA/UaNyWK23DTI/AAAAAAAAALc/2OqfmG5zyeU/s1600/IMG_0824.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V57b9YT5pfA/UaNyWK23DTI/AAAAAAAAALc/2OqfmG5zyeU/s320/IMG_0824.jpg" /></a>
Well its 14 days to the start of the 2013 Freedom Challenge Race Across South Africa, start date the 9th of June batch A, Tim has decided to have a holiday this year and to complete the new section of the Lodge at Bushwise, he is also training for the War Trail triathlon down South somewhere, details to follow. I will be riding with Peter who rode last year to keep me company. This years fund raising is again for the Freedom Challenge Scholarship Fund, we supported this very worthwhile charity two years ago and managed to raise some funds that have enabled several underprivileged kids down in the Eastern Cape to attend High School and hopefully learn how to spell better than I can !!! The guys have put a lot of effort into the Scholarship Funds efforts over the past Two years under the stewardship of Allen Sharp and Ben De Lange, both Freedom Challenge blanket wearers , that means they finished the blooming race !!! They have close to Ten kids on bursaries and their progress is monitored through out the year by Allen and Ben as well as the Teachers and also lets not forget young Sepho who works for the Freedom Challenge down at Masakala, he oversees the students and liaises with the parents on a daily basis. If you ride the trail at any time you will meet him, a great personality that is an integral part of the Scholarship Fund and the Freedom Trail.
We all have our own BackaBuddy links and any donations really will be appreciated towards the Scholarship Fund, please support this cause, education is the key for the future of not only South Africa but africa as a whole, my link is http://www.backabuddy.co.za/champion/project/andy-2013 any donation matters, thank you.
Now the begging is over ! The race training is kind of complete, every year I seem to put on a couple of kilograms before the race, yep just like a hamster stocking up for winter I am stocking up for the race. The weather forecast is the usual cold, wet and crappy, but thats what make the race so special. This year there there are close to 70 starters, hopefully they will all finish, although the average drop out rate is over 40% for this race, I hope we all have the wind at our backs and only get snow in Cape Town.
Alex Harris is not racing this year and Martin Dreyer is riding with his wife, I suspect the woman's record will be smashed this year, Tatum Prins currently holds the record. So who will go for the podium placings ???? My money is on Glenn Harrison, a nicer guy you would not meet, he's has a great pedigree with the race, knows the route backwards and he's been very quite at the moment, this race is a bugger and anything can happen on the route even to the most experienced rider, lets hope this is Glenn's year. The Ride to Rhodes is now called the Race to Rhodes and R100.00 is being donated to the Scholarship Fund by David Waddilove for every rider that gets to Rhodes under 6 days, the record is 54 Hours set last year by Martin Dreyer. Tim James is back for the race and I suspect Tim will set the bar very high, but how on earth you can get to Rhodes any quicker amazes me, the guys will not sleep and just ride the 600 kilometers, hats off to them.
Next post will be from the race, I am going to try and use the mobile version of Blogger, if it does not work hopefully Annette can type the race summary up for me !!! In Engels I hope !!! Safe riding to all competitors and please support the Scholarship fund its a good project !!!
Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-86566324504555683502013-04-16T16:11:00.000+02:002013-04-16T16:11:35.936+02:00Lowveld Quest<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6o8FraZ0MIA/UW1JqNOmwyI/AAAAAAAAAKw/LaB6FOGtc98/s1600/DSC02234.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6o8FraZ0MIA/UW1JqNOmwyI/AAAAAAAAAKw/LaB6FOGtc98/s320/DSC02234.JPG" /></a>
This was the first year of the Lowveld Quest and I think its set to become a classic must do race. The organization, routes and fun was fantastic. Tim and Annette are riding the 361 race down South later this week so I got to ride the 4 day stage race on my own. It is a pairs race but they allowed solo entries due to demand. The race started in Lydenberg and finished in Hazyview in the Lowveld. The pre-race supper was held at the Lydenberg school where we were treated to a superb supper by the schools hotel school. One could have thought you were dining in a swanky hotel. The race briefing was conducted with a great sense of humor which would set the tone for the whole 4 days.
The start was cold but we had about 400 school children cheering us off out of the school grounds that soon warmed everyone up, the day consisted of a very large climb through two game reserves that had a lot of animals in it, I am sure I would have seen some of them if I could have lifted my eyes up off the track and managed to breathe normally. The single track was great and the district roads were fast, and eventually we managed to find some downhill that led to Mankele where the first over night stop was being held. On arrival everyone was greeted by the organizers and we were sent of to clean bikes, eat and find our tents. The day was 81 Km in distance and the winning time was 3;15 and the last was about 7 hours. Everyone seemed to enjoy the day even as the clouds came in promisising rain.
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dOK3lL1-4oY/UW1NMWXh7MI/AAAAAAAAAK8/uGNLIC5n9O8/s1600/DSC02236.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dOK3lL1-4oY/UW1NMWXh7MI/AAAAAAAAAK8/uGNLIC5n9O8/s320/DSC02236.jpg" /></a>
Day 2 was from Mankele to Sabie, the route followed the 3 Towers race route up to Misty Mountain, roughly 50 km of up hill, my legs blew within the first 10 km and it was a slow grind up hill in granny gear in the rain and mud. The route was slippery and wet and not that scenic as we could not see anything. As we came into Misty Mountain along the single track we were warned to walk as people had overshot the bridge and ended up in the dam at the bottom. The water point was fantastic and hosed off the mud from the bikes which helped us with the fast 20 Km downhill to Merry Pebbles at Sabie, although the day was a 69 Km day it was fun and the camaraderie at the back of the field was great with people falling off and cracking jokes. On arrival at Sabie we all washed our bikes off in the river, found the food and got warm and dry. The food again was great and you have to take your hats off to the organizers who moved the camps and got everything in place for the riders.
Day 3 was from Sabie to Graskop, a monster up hill for 25 km and then back down to Sabie on some of the best single track I have ridden. The rain was out and the mud was flying, the course rode between single track and jeep track all the way to the overnight stop at Graskop. Most riders found the day a challenge but seemed to enjoy it and we got a surprise at Graskop as we were not in tents but in dorms belonging to an educational centre. The most popular person was the guy who set up selling chocolates, cokes and beers, he was doing a brisk trade in beer. The day was 56 Km and the race snakes were set for a really fast stage 4 which would sort out the placings.
Day 4 arrived with all the riders lined up at the start about 20 minutes early, lots of laughter and jokes were flying around and the weather looked like it would play its part. We set of at a really fast pace, which came to an end when we got to the Three Pigs, I thought these hills would be rideable, but the compulsory portage signs gave an indication that they were not.Bike on the back Freedom Challenge style and a yomp up the first two Piggies. The girls were supposed to have their bikes carried up for them but in my group the girls did their own portaging, hats off to them, it was nasty. The third Piggie I road up and down and managed to go off the edge just in front of the cameraman, always the way. Then we had a blistering downhill section. Well thats until the 22 Km mark were I rounded a corner doing about 2 Km an hour and my front wheel hit a slippery hard packed section and I found myself staring at the sky trying to catch my breath. Now you don't mind falling at speed as you can appear a bit of a downhill racer but at walking pace you appear an idiot !!! I realized I had landed on my ribs and it was a bit sore. At the next water point I found out we still had 25km to go so carried on. The last section was fun and fast and the adrenalin kicked in and managed to get into the finish in a reasonable time. the distance was 49 Km.
The race concluded and I was left with the impression that this race was well organised and really is a race for Mountain Bikers. There was not the well groomed single track that you get at other races, or the Woolworths food tent at the end but what they had achieved was a back to basic, good, hard, fun Mountain Bike stage race that was achievable for the riders yet challenging. Well done to the boys at Mankele and Induna.
Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-34105266875156697762013-02-21T14:17:00.000+02:002013-02-21T14:17:07.790+02:00Last day of our Spine adventure<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QmcqOrFYtpQ/USYKJ039QdI/AAAAAAAAAKg/-tnUMUSE3SA/s1600/IMG_0691.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QmcqOrFYtpQ/USYKJ039QdI/AAAAAAAAAKg/-tnUMUSE3SA/s320/IMG_0691.jpg" /></a>
Ohrigstad to Pilgrim's Rest, 68Km riding along the best route so far, there was plenty of shade, and despite last nights rain the roads were not to bad, Annette could not be caught on the hills, she has got so strong on the bike that Tim and I were playing catch up all day. The route was really nice and the big climb of the day was not to bad at all. Once we had turned heading into Pilgrim's rest we knew that our journey was at its end, and the Royal Hotel put us in the Annex where we all have huge baths and plenty of room to lounge around. A quick bite of lunch and tonight we will have a whiskey or three. We have a days rest then its the 74km Sabie race left to do, now we don't have the heat we are hoping that the rain stays away so the track is not to muddy, never satisfied !!
We will post more photo's and give the stat's of the ride when we get back to civilization, as all we want to do now is rest and soak up the atmosphere a bit, the bikes have been cleaned, washing done. We must say thank you to our back up man Alan with out who this adventure would not have been as easy, you can not ride a route like this without help and Alan was always there with a smile, quick wit and a plan, thanks Alan.
Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-18437920151297850632013-02-21T14:01:00.000+02:002013-02-21T14:01:02.351+02:00Day 7 of the Spine<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xyl8Jc0txlI/USYKEoO98pI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/1mg1kP-xDHQ/s1600/IMG_0684.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xyl8Jc0txlI/USYKEoO98pI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/1mg1kP-xDHQ/s320/IMG_0684.jpg" /></a>
Today we rode from Burgerfort to Ohrigstad, Driekie and Pieter escorted us out of Burgersfort and onto the railway line, with out their help we would still be going around in circles as the roads used previously have all been closed off and in the maze we were lost. Once on the railway line we rode up beside the railway for about 30 Km, the valley was really hot and we seem to have missed the old fort that was somewhere up in the valley. The track was not as bad as we were expecting just temperatures of 40 plus and no wind. I ran out of water with 8 km to go, once we hit the tar mac it was a 4km downhill to the Iketla Lodge, the last 1.5 km up hill on a dirt road that seemed to go on for ever. Once at Iketla we were amazed at the serenity and luxury of the Lodge, we were greeted and provided drinks by the hosts and settled down to a swim and food. Could not find the free condoms, a good sign !!!! We were treated to wonderful food and a peaceful sleep. The thunderstorm brought welcome relief and cooled the place down. Last day tomorrow.
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QjqKjxVonwA/USYKGT8ByrI/AAAAAAAAAKY/ST4CD2ivX-Y/s1600/IMG_0683.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QjqKjxVonwA/USYKGT8ByrI/AAAAAAAAAKY/ST4CD2ivX-Y/s320/IMG_0683.jpg" /></a> Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-24994951528391908712013-02-19T15:57:00.000+02:002013-02-19T15:57:44.188+02:00Day 6 of the Spine<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ro68OvDQAho/USOAABSnHbI/AAAAAAAAAKA/G5Rkka54d9s/s1600/day+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ro68OvDQAho/USOAABSnHbI/AAAAAAAAAKA/G5Rkka54d9s/s320/day+5.JPG" /></a>
Today is actually day 9 of the Spine but our day 6, and it was supposed to be a long 175km from Chuenespoort to Burgersfort, we had enough so we cut it short, the heat is oppressive and the ride not that interesting. So we headed for Bugersfort after only doing 40 Km. Having spent the night dodging the Turkey sized Mozzies and sleeping in a bed that you really did not want to get into, we left all the condoms on the shelfs and headed for Shangri-La, well we found it in a Guest House called Kusile owned by Drieke and Pieter, who are two of the nicest people you will meet. And Drieke is a mountain biker !! Air-conditioning, clean sheets, clean rooms, cant find the condoms though. Don't be put of staying at Kusile by the comments in the book that its expensive, this place runs at 100% occupancy and there are reasons for that, after last night you get what you pay for and this is a different quality.
The ride this morning was alongside the National road, well a couple of kilometers in most places, and through the maze of new mines that have sprung up in the area. Its not pretty and the riding is dirt roads and tar. The taxis and cars and trucks are a nightmare, we had to ride right over on the verge to stay clear of them. The interesting thing was that Toyota vehicles were in the majority of about 8 to 1 to other makes, just an observation.
The bikes have been cleaned and we have two days left of this adventure, one recommendation is don't ride this in mid summer its hot, we had little choice this year !! tomorrow the narrative states how hot it gets and we are planning to leave early to try and get through the valleys before we get hit with the heat I can not say I am looking forward to the ride tomorrow.
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e0_J-JcFsEE/USN_FxEjTFI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/UYIL-FlD5Hw/s1600/Day5.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e0_J-JcFsEE/USN_FxEjTFI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/UYIL-FlD5Hw/s320/Day5.1.JPG" /></a>Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4745220970519455184.post-91014437974324801202013-02-18T19:25:00.001+02:002013-02-18T19:25:39.388+02:00Day 5 we thinkWe left Kurisa Moyo in mist and it was pretty chilly, still should have remembered the sun block though. We had an excellent ride through the forest to Magobas and then up over the mountains again. The traffic on the road under construction was not to bad, and we made good time.<br />
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As we came over the mountains into the Cheunespoort area the temperature warmed up to the mid 35's should have remembered the sun block !! The ride through the villages was great and quite as everyone seems to have left and gone to work. Then we hit the tar section again as the narrative and map did not make sense to us. A long slog for 35 km and the local Spaza shops had run out of cold coke so we were given very cold water for free, bonus !<br />
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Tonight we are in a place where they leave condoms for free and charge a day usage, and it's seriously hot, the Mosquitos are the size of Turkeys so it may not be the most comfy night. Tomorrow is a very long section to Burgers-fort, we think we may cut some off as the routes mainly run down the main road we will see how it goes, really hope the next stop has a pool and mozzie coils. Will post photos tomorrow when we have a better Internet connection.Two Old Fartshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07757319461067879021noreply@blogger.com0