Sunday 16 June 2013

Navigation nightmare in the stormberg

Hi all, apologies for not posting until now...reception issues... What can be said about today!!?? First 50km were the most difficult if ever ridden...less than10km/h average!! with over 4000m vertical ascent of which much of this saw the bike catching a lift on my shoulders! Then from the ntsikeni support station, my plan was to cover the next 100km in the afternoon and evening...NOT!!! About 10km out I took a turn too soon and ended up in completely the wrong valley. This 28km section of the route was supposed to take me about 3 hours, instead I wondered around in the pitch black wilderness for more than 6 hours. This has forced me to spend the night at an emergency stop, totally exhausted but glad to be back on the route. My intended 150km for the day only saw 80km completed. Time to stay calm, I'm sure things will improve. As for the Freedom trail, incredible scenery so far and a real privilege to be riding it. The body is screaming for me to stop with many aches developing all over...hopefully the mind can keep those voices out! Off to bed now, another early start tomorrow. Cheers, Charles

6 comments:

  1. Hang in there Charles. Like you said; "Stay calm". You can do this!! You have a pack of people behind you...rooting all the way! - Clint

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  2. We are with you all the way and know that your mind is not the problem ... you can do it.. Andre and Michele

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  3. With u all the way!!! Teresa / Bruce and Bradley

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  4. You are strong in both your body and your mind and therefore have no doubt that you will finish this challenge with flying colours. Cheryl & Ian

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  5. Good luck Charles, hang in there. Even though most beginnings are very difficult, you'll see it'll get better. You have a lot of supporters.
    Ilse & Koen

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  6. Go for it Charles!! Enjoy everything - even the mistakes! Just go with the flow, no regrets!! Looking forward to next blog! W

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