Image credit: Oakpics

 

Another great day dawned on us here in Storms River this morning as we enjoyed our caffeine fix and breakfasts. We had 40km of action on the dirt ahead of us this morning. Admittedly we may have indulged in a couple of glasses of wine last night, so were not so sprightly early on.

 

 

Less than 10km into the stage I came across the Specialized pairing of Bobby Behan and Giniel De Villiers, both accomplished athletes each in their own rights but maybe not the most accomplished mechanics(they’ll tell you the tyre had a really tight bead 😉 ). The overnight race leaders had unluckily cut their side wall, quite severely, so I stopped to help them out. Eventually with a zip lock bag and gel wrapper, we had a tyre boot in place and with a tube in they could set off on their chase of the pointy end of the race.

 

 

My Dad and I had other plans including enjoying the scenery and water points once again. The natural forest and mountains in the area were breath taking. On the bike riding side I was impressed that he managed to ride up the 1.5km, close on 20% average gradient cement strip climb(read: wall) up from the Storms River mouth. It really was a beast of a climb that forced many off their steads.

 

                                                                                                                                             Breathtaking views

                                                                                                                                                   Image credit: Oakpics

                                                                                                                                                                         Just cruising

                                                                                                                                                  Image credit: Oakpics

 

After our last refuel and zipping along the deserted golf cart paths of an abandoned golf estate, mid project, we entered the last dash to the line. As we spotted two teams just ahead of us, Pops saw red and the chase was on. With only 1 push from me we outgunned our fellow racers to the line. It was an exciting finish to an action packed day.

 

 

It almost feels like we have just started this fantastic race and tomorrow it’s all over. Nonetheless we have thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and am sure tomorrow won’t disappoint either.