Today we were forced to move and before the race even started, we had to make sure the entire camp site was cleared before the scheduled 07:00am start, so that the organizers could transport and rebuild the provisions in Worcester ready for our arrival later that evening.

I must repeat however, the organizers of this event really are on the ball and continue to perform logistical wonders. The organization runs like clockwork and even the food and provisions at the camp are great!

Tulbagh – Worcester: thats 125km over 1900m altitude.

Straight off teh bat we were faced with a difficult ascent scattered with huge rocks which forced most participants to get off and push. Following this a nice flat long plain...unfortunately however the terrain consisted almost entirely of strength stealing sand which were also scattered with stones.
All in all, even off-road vehicles would have had difficulties crossing this terrain.

Now something new! Our first river crossing so far which we obviously had to forge on foot holding our trusty Rohloff-Endorfin-Bicycles high over our heads until we reached the adjacent river bank.
A refreshing experience which would have been better yesterday as todays sun was clearing scared of coming out from behind the clouds. It even rained today on a few occasions.

After 6:53:58,1hours we arrived at the finish. Todays result - 18th place.
With a total time now of just 20:01:16,4 hours we had managed to improve our position yet again and were now in 21st place in the Masters category.

Due to the mixture of loose sand and thick water/mud, todays section left many derailleur riders at the road side, unclogging their transmissions. Once again I was extremely glad that I had a Rohloff SPEEDHUB. These problems didn't once affect me en-route!

Ralf and Michael