Category: RACE REPORTS

Cape Pioneer Trek is organized by Dryland. They are my favorite race organizers as they are very good and work hard on making everyone happy not only the pro cyclists but the normal people too. Also they make everyone feel like they are part of their big family.

Prologue
The start at the lodge take riders through the beautiful and unspoilt Buffelsdrift Reserve .
Start & Finish: Buffelsdrift Game Lodge, Oudtshoorn.
Distance: 15 km
Total vertical ascent: 310m

Sunday 15km, 48min, 2nd Solo women
The start was in Buffelsdrift, beautiful private game farm. The course was lot of fun XC type with lots of switch backs and drop offs, bridges and made one feel like you are riding in middle of bush in Kruger park. It was quite dry and loose, rocky so one had to run the tires quite low.I had the privilege of practicing the route before so I knew the course well and it paid off with 2nd place only 20 seconds behind the German pro Bettina Uhlig. My friend Lara Woolley well known for her great mtb skills came 3rd. I pushed to the max and only had few sips of water and energy gel at the start as there isn’t much time to drink or eat.

Stage 1
The capital of the Klein Karoo, and ostrich capital of the world, Oudtshoorn, was the obvious venue to start this journey.
Start: Buffelsdrift Game Lodge, Oudtshoorn.
Finish: Calitzdorp High School, Calitzdorp.
Distance: 103 km
Total vertical ascent: 1720m

Monday, 6:17, 1st Solo Women
Monday morning was a light rain at the start. There was a bit of a talk of maybe mud on course. We hit in a good speed in a bunch for about 5 km. We found ourselves very quickly on a mud clay bath that felt like was never ending and it stick so well to the bike that doubled in weight and was impossible to ride and very heavy to carry.Somehow I got through it and it took me 1h:45mins to get past first 15kms! From there on it was still raining and muddy some places but ride able mostly. I stopped few times to unmud my bike and clean a bit and then pushed hard all the way to the finish.

The course had some new single track around the Red Stones which was awesome even in the conditions.

I got to the finish after 6 hours covered in mud from head to toe and to my surprise finished 1st Solo Woman with good lead.Lot of people had major mechanical issues this day like broken hangers and derailers or chain and chain suck and the bike shops were full and mechanics worked overnight. I got the leaders jersey to wear the next day.

Stage 2, 5:03, 4th Solo women
We leave the village of Calitzdorp, in a northerly direction – hopefully the wildlife will be around for this spectacle.
Start: Calitzdorp High School, Calitzdorp.
Finish: Zwartberg High School, Prince Albert.
Distance: 85 km
Total vertical ascent: 2760m

I slept in a nearby cottage with my friends as they had an extra bed. We got to the start a bit late and I found out my bike has not been touched yet. Despite it worked the day before it needed to have cables changed for the gears to work again. I regretted not booking upfront the service as they had time to fix only my back gears. I had the privilege to start at the front as I was now leading in my category. Standing with the pros like Erik and Arienne Kleinhans was nice but I knew I won’t see them for long. We got going in a big bunch on gravel road and I tried to stay in the bunch. My gears were playing up a bit. I knew the German pro will be pushing hard to get her position back so she was gone in the front of the bunch. I rode with Delene van der Leek who came 2nd on stage 1. I have only met her as she is from Neilspruit. She seem to be a strong rider. Just before first water point we got passed by Aileen Anderson from Cape Town. She hasn’t been doing any races and I have not yet known her strength.

We had pass the water point 1 without stopping. I had my front on the big blade but later found out it doesn’t want to change back down.So that was a major turn down as there were steep climbs and one needed a granny gear and not a big blade. I went as far as I could but had to push and lost the 2 ladies. Luckily I found my friends from Namaqua wine estate and they helped me changed it. I then went with them and enjoyed some fun single track towards the water point 2.

From there we went on gravel road all the way towards 3rd water point under the famous Swartberg mountain. I was going with 2 mix teams including famous Anriette Schoeman and John Lee Augustyn. They got away from me on the climb as Anriette is tiny and easy to push. I have done the climb many times so I knew what was coming and tried to push to catch the other ladies. But not luck. I got to the top 4th only. I waited for a bit and got some friends to ride down to Princ Albert and enjoyed the beautiful scenic downhill. The weather was warm and I had my recovery shake followed by pancakes made by the locals and headed for well deserved massage to hear stories of my fellows. Dinner was delicious and lots of vegetables which we cyclist like to have.

Stage 3, 5:00, 3rd Solo Women
A change of philosophy – instead of heading back to the mountains, riders enters the southern sections of the Great Karoo.
Start: Zwartberg High School, Prince Albert.
Finish: NG Church grounds, De Rust.
Distance: 109 km
Total vertical ascent: 1555m

Beautiful sunrise awaits me as I get out of the tent after good sleep in early hours and head off for big breakfast consisting of scrambled eggs and porridge. I had my bike fixed by Roland Nel from the Canondale Blend team( big thank you) so im happy its working again. Im still in the leaders Solo Women jersey as I got a big gap on Stage 1. The start is fast and we are in big bunch on flat dusty gravel road. Unfortunately there were few sandy patches and someone infront of me fell and I got dropped by the main bunch. Smaller bunch formed and I was next to the German Pro Bettina Uhlig. She is smart though and her friend cuts me off as the wind is coming sideways and I lost the bunch. I pushed hard to try to catch them but no luck and ended up going for a while on my own while other small bunch caught me and we take turns in the wind. I hate this as guys are usually stronger and I prefer climbing and downhills to the flat. Aileen and Delene catch me just before water point 1 and we head off together to the first steep rocky climb. I leave Delene behind me. Rocky but fun descent follows and takes us all the way to water point 2. Where I quickly fill up bottles and get going on flatish section on tar and later gravel into the wind. I ride with Ashley Shaw who seems to have the same pace as me so we take turns in the wind. We get caught by Nic Lamond who gives us a ride for a good few kays. He is super strong and leaves us behind when other guys come. Me and Ashley motivate each other through the section to 3rd water point that we pass as we know its not too far. There is some fun single track up and then down awaiting us. Im loving the down hill where I catch Aileen and get out onto flat tar road that takes us to the finish with beautiful red stones around us.

Me and Delene now behind me we push hard with few boys to the finish. She start sprinting and I trail behind her but don’t have the legs. I end few seconds behind her on 3rd place but happy. From there on it’s the usual story of shower, eating, massage.

Stage 4, 4:51, 5th Solo women
The gem of the Klein Karoo awaits Bridge Cape Pioneer Trek riders with a 25 km steady ascent into the most scenic section of this years’ ride.
Start: NG Church grounds, De Rust.
Finish: Louvain guest farm, Herold.
Distance: 63 km
Total vertical ascent: 1894 m

I remember this day from last year being tough. As we get going in a bunch from start I can feel my legs can feel yesterdays sprint to finish. They are bit sore and no power. I don’t feel like being in pain after 3,5 days of hard racing so I take it easy and drop the bunch and go my own pace getting passed by lot of people and hoping that my legs will get going at later stage at least. The route goes up steady climb to water point 1 where I get some juice and banana and head down a steep descent into the Kamanaas valley. There are few river crossings that I can ride this year and I happily note that my technical riding improved. We start climbing steep hill and soon we are pushing for good 30 minutes all the way up where is a beautiful view. This section is not open to ride during the year so it’s a privilege to be there. Another rocky downhill and we are at water point too. From there it’s a bit of rolling hills towards Louvain. I ride a bit with a mixed team from Fundamental team. She falls into the brown water under the bridge and as I try to pass her my wheel slips and I take a dive in too. I laugh and found the water actually refreshingly cool. Its hot by now in Karroo! I dragged myself up the steep rocky single track that Henco promised and quietly swear as I was hoping for smooth fun single track and not pushing up hill in the last 5km. I managed to ride down the rocky section and dragged myself into the finish knowing I had lost my leading jersey today but happy to be there.

I rest well in afternoon, push some food in and go to bed in my tent early as I feel bit nausea and want to sleep it off and hope to feel strong again the next day.

Stage 5, 5:07, 7th Solo women
Instead of starting the stage towards the coast, riders take off in a northerly direction through the farmlands.
Start: Louvain guest farm, Herold.
Finish: Van Kervel High School, George.
Distance: 75 km
Total vertical ascent: 1693 m

I really enjoyed last years day 5 so im hoping for a good day again. However it was raining most night and starts pouring again right on start. Henco doesn’t spare us and let us go into the rain. That means its probably predicted rain for whole day. We head straight up a steep climb technical single track climb. I feel strong and keep passing people. Once on top I enjoy the downhill even though its wet and it keeps raining. My chain is sucking in on the next climb and I have to push few sections. We pass 1st water point and in 2nd steep rocky descent I can hear my brakes scream which is a sign of worn pads. I pray but doesn’t help and also my back wheel is getting soft. I stop to bomb it and just get to second water point. Where I get someone to help me but unfortunately have to put tube and gator in as it’s a side wall cut and plugs wont help. I loose a lot of time there and I see lot of people stop there as they have other mechanical issues but mostly gear problems and brakes. I don’t consider giving up so I jump on my bike and get going. By then I have no brake pads front or back and my shifter is not working so have mostly only 2 gears. Gravel or tar road is ok but before we get to finish we still have to get through a single track. What was lots of fun last year feels more like a horror movie today. As I glide and slide and no brakes. Somehow I got through it and finish in proper down pour in then flooded finish in George.

I’m quite emotional at the finish as im cold, wet, low blood sugar and my bike is a complete mess. But after warm shower and great food I feel like human again and I am busy making plans how to get my bike ready for next day. As all the bike shops are full with prebooked bikes. I have lost even more time today but will fight towards the finish. Delicious dinner of great salads and ostrich meat makes me feel good and I head off to sleep in Oudshorn at my husbands parents place.

Stage 6, 5th Solo women, Overall 4th
The route back to Oudtshoorn knows only one way, and that is up, the first 18 km is right along these lines.
Start: Van Kervel School, George.
Finish: Oudtshoorn High School, Oudtshoorn.
Distance: 84 km
Total vertical ascent: 1584 m.

The organizers had to change the route to shorter 68km and cut off single track. We head off on the tar in big bunch on to the old beautiful Montagu pass. Its raining again but not bucketing like yesterday and we are climbing for about an hour to the saddle where is usually beautiful view but we cant see it through the mist and rain. I pass the first water point and get going with few friends again pushing hard all the way to 2nd water point. By then its stops raining and sun start shining! The mud is drying on our faces and legs and we are getting free mud mask. I stop at the water point and loose the group and then go all the way alone to Oudshorn where I get caught by Thea Mari van der Sandt and Theresa Horn from Khombisa who donated prize money for Swartberg first lady. We sprint to the finish but im tired from going on my own. Thea Mari wins a 3rd place on that stage. Few mins later arrives my friend Lara Woolley with Aileen Anderson. Aileen had also mechanical issues but she still beats me and get 3rd place on overall position by 2 minutes.

I’m happy we are done and can go shower and rest in my husband’s parents place. We still go to prize giving and finishers dinner where we have good food and at last bit of red wine. We watch great shots and video from the race and are happy to take part in such an awesome event. At the end the leaders jerseys are auctioned for charity. But that’s not the end yet! There is an after party that takes place in local bar. One would think that people would be tired but no! These guys dance and drink till late hours. I am tired and scared of having a bad hangover so I ninja bomb after 12 for well deserved sleep. I hear the next day that the party continued till early morning and there are lots of cyclists feeling tired today and not from cycling!

Nutrition notes: One has to really make sure to eat and hydrate well on a stage race especially if it raining. People tend to stop drinking and eating on a muddy rainy day. While your body works even harder and needs more food. I had quite a few energy gels in the first few days as I was trying to race and took the water points quickly. But after 4 days the gels just get too much. So I recommend to eat as much natural food as you can like bananas, raisins, dates, natural energy bar, sandwich, etc. Once you are in the finish try to have your recovery shake and eat straight after shower. Try to have enough vegetables and also protein not only carbohydrates. Don’t skimp on your food while racing. Also sometime people get a runny tummy or nausea so it’s good to take probiotics with you and wash your hands and sanitise them often.

Thank you Dryland for another amazing race! Thank you Itec Cape Town for their support and Trek, Nakd energy bars, GU energy South Africa, Barrebody nutrition and Squirtlube SA. And also thank you to my amazing husband for supporting me!

 

 

Lourensford belongs to my favorite races for many reasons. It’s set in beautiful valley. The route is always fun and challenging and little different each time. It’s great family outdoor event and well organized. This Spur Lurenford MTB Classic organized by Dirtopia and timed by Trailtag again didn’t disappoint.

The start of the race wasn’t on the main polo field this time but next to it which was fine as the views of the beautiful mountains were still magnificent. The morning was chilly but no rain and blue sky had attracted some experienced but lot of beginners and families.

After smooth registration and getting ready I did a quick warm up and headed for the start. Said hello to all my friends and off we headed for the 60km long challenging route.
The start is uphill for good hour mainly on gravel road. It spreads very quickly and soon I was going alone with Diana Carolin my friend breathing on my back. I managed to get to the top first but she is better downhiller and passed me quite quickly in the downhills. I was going behind her for a while and enjoyed the mudy and river crossings but after while i had to stopsad my back wheel was going flat. I got 2 gentlemens to help me bomb it and got going again but unfortunately lost Di out of sight. The route was quite technical up and down and we got quite wet from river crossings. I must say the water was not warm. Brrrrr. The reward were stunning views of the Helderberg mountains and fun single track down. I had to stop one more time at the bottom at about 30km to pump some more my back wheel. After more fun single track in forest we got to the second part of climbing and I tried to get back some of my lost time. Somewhere at 45km the route connects with the shorter 38km route. Which wasn’t ideal as it was still single track and the riders are bit slower( no offense) and one must wait for a good spot to pass them. I was quite sorry for some of them as they looked tired already and some struggled with the technical route.

At about 50km mark the route heads down back to the valley in a fast descent on gravel road. Some riders may thought that’s it but not yet. Some more single track and some new one really lots of fun switchbacks no rocky stuff but nice and smooth just the way I like it:)

I got to the finish few where smiling and happy Di was waiting. I congratulate her and others and we shared our experiences from the ride. It’s always fun to chat at the end and see everyone is happy and full of the happy hormones.

There were lot of water points. I must say I only stopped once quickly at the 45km mark to get water but there was also coke and energy drink. I had my own energy drink from start Hammer Perpetum this time and half Nakd energy bar and one energy Gu gel.

There were quite a lot of kids too as there was 5km route and beginner mtbikers who did the 15 or 27 km. Spur did their Burgers and also pancakes were sold and eaten.
We washed our bikes and did the “Portuguese shower” , changed, had recovery shake Manna Vanilla Espresso and waited for prize giving.

Our Itec Cycle Training got 3 podium finishes so we were happy. Diana Carolin first, me 2nd, Nicola Walker 3rd who has 9 month old baby! Very impressive! James Reid won the male overall and my friend Nico Pfitzemayer came 3rd.

After we headed off to nearby Mill House Kitchen for lunch with friends and had lots of laugh over a good meal.

Overall great organizing and great fun day out.

Thank you Dirtopia and Trailtag.

 

I had never done a race in Citrusdal before. I thought it would be well worth the experience, and as a bonus I’d be able to take in more of South Africa’s generous scenery. So, I decided to make the trip with a few friends.

 We organized accommodation for the Friday night at Citrusdal Lodge which was lovely. We then found a cosy restaurant called Citrus that served delicious food. I had a chicken burger (not the roll), baby potatoes and broccoli. After that we were tired and ready for bed. I slept like a baby packing in at least 8 hours.

The next morning we had a quick breakfast. I have prepared the night before rolled oats soaked in water and scoop of Manna Green shake. We packed our stuff, hopped onto our bikes and headed to the starting point. Registrations opened at 7am and we all set off at 8am.

It was a chilly morning and a cold mist covered what is a beautiful landscape.

We did a quick warm-up ride up the hill, and took few pics.

We arrived at the start just on time, and were first behind the tip-trans truck which took us through town onto gravel, where we were left to race.

A big bunch formed, causing me to concentrate as much as one would in a road race. We had a good pace. I tried to stay aware of the others’ movements. We passed loads of orange trees as Citrusdal is known for its citrus farming, hence its name.

The bunch separated, as 3 or 4 guys broke away in their own race for podium.

We passed the first 2 water points without stopping. The main and longest climb was at 30km.  That’s where the group started splitting up even more. I tried to maintain a reasonably fast pace as climbing is my strong point, ensuring I didn’t lose the group for the flat part which would follow.

Cherie Vale passed me comfortably. We had chatted earlier about her brilliant performance in the XC World Champs held last week in PMB. As well as talented, she is both amiable and down to earth.

We were rewarded with a beautiful view of the landscape below.  I pushed hard but still wasn’t managing to keep up with the stronger guys. While leaving some riders behind us, myself and one of the guys started chatting and arrived at the top together where the King of the mountain prize awaited. Together, we headed downhill into the lush valley. The gravel was an orange color and the sky very blue. Mountains all around us. The contrasting colours were breathtaking.

It was just the two of us for about 30kms, until a group of guys caught up with us which we were very happy about. This enabled us to work together as we then took regular turns at the front. It wasn’t too windy but it still helped to sit behind the wheel.

I had to push hard to stay with the group, and also pushed hard at the front. It was by no means a walk in the park. We passed Clanwilliam dam on the way back to Citrusdal, which is wonderfully scenic and surprisingly, bigger than expected.

We all thought it would be an easy finish on tar, through town, but we were in for a surprise. We turned off onto the single track through an orange tree farm only to find that we still had a few uphills to do. That’s where my energy levels hit bottom and my legs were turning slower and slower.

I had to take a GU energy gel 3 kms from the finish. Never stop eating or drinking when you think you are almost there. The GU gel kicked in and I made it to the finish 2nd in the ladies division. I was incredibly happy with my result and also to have finished in 4:33 mins. There were showers at the finish, pool or dam to refresh and small organic market that added extra bonus.

Overall it was a very well organized race and we were all glad to have done it.

it is always satisfying to ride new routes and support the organizers who work so hard in forging them.

I did die Burger twice but only the 60km route. So I was happy to receive the invite to ride 75km route with the racing snakes.

I finished the Transalp only two weeks ago and wasn’t sure if I rested enough afterwards and was fully recovered. I have been doing easy intensity rides and one hilly sharp mtb on Wednesday.

Prediction for weather was great so was pretty amped to hit the trail.

Quite a chilly in the morning on the start and me, Caren Henschel and Diana Carolin were standing in the back of the A group. I’m always a bit slow and probably too cautious after start in the bunch. So off I went tried to catch Caren that has fast starts.

I knew the route from previous year and knew I had to push from start in the steep hills as the single track gets busy later.

I felt quite good and pushed my heart rate pretty high above my threshold but thinking its only one day race and I have to go full out.

I passed Caren in first hills sections, then Simon who did the Transalp too who said he did too much riding during the week with the weather being so nice.

In the second hill section I see my friend Lara Woolley who has been stronger and faster this year. Off I go and say hi thinking she will catch me in the downhill her strong side.

We got to the top of Botmaskop and had nice smooth down hill across the Helshoogte pass and off we went up and down vineyard and hit awesome fun single track in forest so dense you can’t see anywhere and it feels like you are in a maize. What a fun! Especially as I had space before me. I let go some youngsters doing the 60km route who caught up with me otherwise there was no traffic at all.

I passed the water points without stopping until about 40th km. Where refilled my bottle, gulped down a banana and readjusted my saddle as it went down a bit. Lara caught me there and off we went together a bit. Me behind her in downhill and trying to stick on her No Fear wheel. We pass Nicky Grobler from Bizhub team who is down for a month of training. She says she was sick and was not feeling strong.

There comes the uphill that was extra for the long route. I got ahead of Lara but struggled a bit on the sharp and some rocky switchbacks up. Its not so easy after 3 hours pushing hard any more.

We got to the top and after few turns I let her go as she is the down hill speedy. I swore as I forgot to deflate my tyre pressure and had super hard tyres and was bouncing up and down on the rocks. But don’t feel like stopping as don’t wanna loose her.

Lots of switchbacks there – some I enjoy some with fear in my eyes:) good practice!

Anyway I managed it down without her staying in my eye sight. Now I know its only about 25kms left and route comes together with the shorter one. I remember there are few last hills. Off I go chasing her but she stops for water at the bottom of the hill.

I keep going and see another girl from the long route ahead. I pass Bryan one of my clients doing the 60km route. He is cheering and says I must push harder:)

I managed to joke a bit and get away.

I get to the lady on top of the hill and its wheel on wheel – she sees me and off she goes down the hill. We are going fast and passing other people. When we get to town its pretty much blocked with the other riders and I can’t move forward any more.

I push fast as I can on the last flat piece and finish few seconds behind her. Nice to get someone to race with at the end. It adds a bit of excitement.

I gulped down half litre of water and happily chat to the fellow riders.

The school stadium is full of people – supporters and riders. I see there is also more vendor stands for after race refreshment. Mountain biking is getting really popular!

I chat some more and find out I just missed the 3rd place. Later to found out 4th actually. Still I’m happy with the result of 3:55 and coming only 13 mins behind Cherie Vale – WP XC Champion.

Well done to Caren Henschel too and Diana Carolin both riding for Itec Cycle Training team.°

From nutrition point I had Dojo Chocolate fuel from Barrebody in my bottle then refilled with water once. First GU energy gel Chocolate Love Espresso after 2 hours, banana on 2,5 hours of race and second GU on 3 hours. Plus something solid Nakd natural bar from dates and nuts from Natural Delicacies.

 

Thank you Itec for continuous support and problem free chain and bike – Squirtlube and Revolution Cycles.

Overall great race – awesome route that one can ride only once a year.

Maybe just water instead of only coke in finish would help.

The Trailtag timing system seems a bit of a nuisance as one has to slow down around it to read. But online results were up immediately which is a plus.

Well done Dirtopia!

3.-6. July, Teplice nad Metuji

This race was organized by Vena Hornych, one of my friends in Czech who is known for being very good on downhills and bit crazy. He can show you how to do one of the hardest downhills in sandals and no helmet and make it look super easy. It is first MTB stage race in Czech Republic and to do it it’s like our Cape Epic. It is close to my home town so I thought I should not missed out on that.

Day 1 Prologue, 8km

XC route of Prologue was hectic! Beautiful green forest, steep climbs but few very steep and for me untied able descents! I finished closer to the end of the field. No amateurs on this race! Only crazy and experienced mountain bikers! I opted for the Demo – shorter option at the end as I was scared I would not recover properly for the Transalp.

Day 1, 50km, 2000m ascent

Until the first water point the route was same with the long route and I was going nicely with some of the front girls. There was some routey single track and steep downhill in forest and lots of climbing. The route went in beautiful green forest and it was a nice change from SA.

After the first water point the short route separated and cut of some of the steep climbs but we still had good 2000meters of ascent. It was quite lonely till the end only few of the top guys caught me at the end Nico Pfitzemayer including. He finished 1st in his category and 6th overall! He said it was one of the hardest races he had done! But was happy with his result.

I really enjoyed the route and finished 1st lady in the 50km route. The weather has been great, warm and blue sky almost humid. Nice to warm up from Cape Towns winter. We are really lucky as this race would have been a nightmare in rain.

Day 2 and 3 both 50km

Friday and Saturday were both great days with perfect weather. Not too hot and no rain! This race would have been a nightmare in mud with all the steep technical up and down hills. Both days were 50kms and it took me just under 4 hours each day. I didn’t push to my limit as was saving energy for Transalp and also had quite a bit of time on the other ladies.

The long route was more challenging and there were some strong girls to compete with but it would leave me too tired. Great to be on the podium in my home town and to see some of my old friends even though there were lot of new faces too. I think the riders here are very strong and have good technical skills. I would recommend this race to anyone who loves technical downhills and single track. There was a minimum of tar road and the route was just fun and various with no time to get bored. There was also free mechanical service before and after race and also on the route. Water points were well stocked with fruit and energy gels, drinks and bars.

 

 

680km and 20 250m ascent
From Germany, across Austria to Italy

Day 1 – Saturday
Mittenwald – Mayrhoffen
110km, 2000m ascent
5:28

We have arrived in Mittenwald, German small beautiful town on Thursday afternoon to have a day to register and acclimatize. We slept in a family guest house and had pasta at the pre race dinner and were ready on Saturday and couldn’t wait to start our adventure.

After one hour of waiting in the schute somewhere in middle of the field – yes people were really keen and came early and the start wasn’t seeded. We were happy to take off and start riding.

It was quite slow pace first as we were in the back. First flat stretch and then we started climbing on gravel road and slowly overtook people and got into nice pace. Beautiful views with high mountains around us and we could see the switchbacks going to the top of the mountain.

Once on top nice descent followed. I thought people went quite slow. Slower than in SA. After flat stretch we filled our bottles at the first water point and grabbed a banana and a sweet bread.

Now off to the second climb of the day into 1800m above sea level. Carren wasn’t feeling strong so I eased off a bit but made it nicely to the top. The downhill was quite scary with steep switchbacks. If you didn’t make it you would be flying down a cliff.

After 2nd water point came a beautiful town in Austria already with a stunning lake. The route went on a cycle path which I didn’t find very safe as riders were going fast in between people walking with kids, etc. It was bit boring long flat stretch on tar.

Beautiful Austrian town welcomed us right in its heart. There were nice refreshing fruit and sweet breads at the finish. It took us quite long to find where the bike park and the camp was. We found a nice spot by window and after good shower rested with our legs up. We were happy as there was WiFi and we could let our family and friends know we are well.

At dinner we found again pasta only. We are missing the meat and salad now.

Day 2 – Sunday
Mayrhoffen – Brixen – Italy
100km, 2500m
5:30

After a good breakfast we went to our starting chute at first group which was an advantage for whole week as we didn’t have to get there too early like the back groups. Simply we rocked up 10 minutes before start and started with easy pace while other racing snakes started to pass us.

Today stage wasn’t too hard from a climbing point of view nor technical with about 50% tar but had some beautiful views. It was a long uphill with tar first and then uphill single track in forest and after first water point there was rocky single track that we had to push and carry our bikes across big rocks.

We arrived to beautiful Italian town called Brixen in 5h 30min and were welcomed by a proper heat. After refreshing fruit at the finish we went off to look for our camp which was bit of a mission about 2 kilometres away from finish but we made it and did the usual routine of standing cue in a bike wash and then finding a nice spot in local gym to sleep.

We decided to eat out as we were craving some fresh salad and found a typical Sud Tyrol restaurant and had nice salads for dinner which was a welcomed change after all the pasta.

Day 3
Brixen – St. Vigil
60km, 2900m ascent
5:30

Good sleep in gym and nice breakfast and we even had a our first proper cappuccino before start on beautiful old Italian square.

The route started uphill again with tar and that changed into forest steep gravel road. The climbing was tough and long with not much view from the forest so we just grinded away until it opened at first water point and we had a good view of the beautiful mountains around us. It took us about 2, 5 almost 3 hours to the top but it felt worth the effort as there were horses in the field and soon we started great fun single track.

Just after the descent before the last hill Carrens shifter broke so we had to fix it and lost some time with that but luckily it wasn’t too far to the finish. Only one climb that took about an hour:) and then fast fun descent that took us right to the finish.

We arrived in beautiful small ski resort town. The dinner was nice for a change as we got a tomato salad and their typical hard white cheese plus pasta of course but it was tasty vegetable lasagne and not the typical Penne with red sauce.

Day 4
St. Vigil to Alleghe
73km, 2620m ascent
5:33

We are used to starting with the climbing and end never ending 2 or 3 hour uphill non-stop. Today though we did quite long hill first and then bit of recovery downhill but afterwards we hit long climb up to 2400m. The highest for the week and hardest day for me. I had to take different heavier bike so as long as we going I’m okay but if we had to push I was definitely struggling more and went up slower than Carren. We went quite a fast pace for about 2hours non stop uphill so when the pushing started I was tired already so after pushing for half an hour I was exhausted and I couldn’t even enjoy the breathtaking views.

Major downhill single track followed that I tried to enjoy but was somehow grumpy and couldn’t wait to be in the finish. Once in finish I felt better and refreshed and check on my brake pads that were still surprisingly fine. As one breaks a lot for long periods.

After bit of swearing when we found out the camp was on the hill and we had to walk steep stairs up and back down for shower and dinner I finally relaxed a little with my parents who came with to support but still had in my mind 4 more days!!

Day 5 Alleghe – San Martino
73km, 3130m ascent
6:10

Another big climbing day but there was more hills and few downhills that I prefer as it wasn’t one never ending up hill. I felt strong again and enjoyed the day while Carren felt a bit off for a change. Another beautiful ski resort welcomed us with little bit of first and only rain in the whole week. I had a my breaks changed in the afternoon otherwise my bike was working great and didn’t need ant TLC only a good wash after each race and chain lube from Squirt. We had to wash our bikes ourselves and stand a bit of a cue unlike in Epic where you just give your bike away after you get into finish. Another pasta dinner in another hall but we got little bit of salad too which we were very grateful for.

Day 6 – Thursday
San Martino – Crespano del Grappa
6:23
110km, 2800m

The route profile looked more like our SA race as it was more up and down and not never ending uphill and then downhill. Nice climb up river and around waterfall first and we were quite quickly at first water point and that made us think today will be quick and maybe easier. But there we were

wrong. After long descent came flat stretch on tar with few tunnels which were scary as cars went fast and passed us on double lane and the tunnels were long. Somehow I got to the front and pulled for a while in fast pace and found myself tired at the bottom of hill. We climbed in forest for about hour and started to wonder where is water point two.

After each bend we thought that must be it. Luckily there was a small house where we asked for water as the water point came really late only half way down the mountain and then we drank as much as we could. There was a last uphill and a bit of pushing and carrying our bikes and finally descent to the finish.

Not so easy at the end.

Crespano del Grappa was a small Italian town that looked a bit poor but beautiful in its way. It was dry and hot! We stayed in a local gym and cold showers were actually refreshing.

Day 7 – Friday
Crespano del Grappa to Roverreto
120km, 3100m ascent
7:00

When we were leaving Crespano it was already hot and I was scared we were gonna get cooked today. But the climb went in a shade and once we got to the top it was nice and cool.

You must be getting tired from reading this so long story short. it was a long route with some climbs that drag on forever. Carrens engine doesn’t like those so I offered my pocket for a bit and after while she was strong again and we made it to the finish in Roverreto with fun single track and some steep rocky switchbacks which by now I was enjoying as I got good practice. Lot of people got a puncture from riding there too fast and were repairing just few km from the finish. Sometimes slower is better. Which proved right to us as we had no mechanical except of Carrens broken shifter. There I’m not says we went slowly. Carren loved the downhills and especially passing all the men that were shocked by her speed.

Roverreto had a feel already of the finish and holiday. I had my first ice cream there as a reward and great Caprese salad.

Day 8 – Saturday
Roverreto to Rival del Garda
40kms, 1200 metre ascent
2:28

After a good sleep we have packed our bags again and put them on the track for last time. We had a big delicious breakfast and coffee and even did a short warm up as we had time and knew the pace for last day will be fast. After start we went on tarmac and it was a stop and start kind of way as there were cars on the road and people tried to push forward. Quite stressful for me not a roadie. Finally we started climbing. My legs were first time properly sore and my gluteus especially. Carren got into fast pace and looked strong and comfortable but I couldn’t get going. There I knew I’m in trouble. Out of breath and with pain I the face I tried to keep up with her and she pushed me few times. Happy returning me the favour from yesterday’s ride. After Tarmac we came onto gravel road in forest and at last we were on the top and skipped the water point as we saw the Belgium girls refreshing and wanted to get ahead of them. Fun single track in forest was a good change with rocky parts that were not so pleasant. I expected to sea the beautiful view of lake Garda but we came to Arco. Arco is 5 km from Riva del Garda, beautiful old Italian town well known for rock climbing and via Ferrata. It is flat stretch to Riva from there. We were still racing in fast pace to the finish and gave the Belgium girls 3 minutes.

Both our parents were at the finish to congratulate us which made it pretty special. Off we went to put on our finishers T-shirts and got our medals and took some pics. After refreshing fruit and last bike wash I found the camp was right there. I got my things and jumped into the cold lake before shower.

We spent the afternoon with our parents and in the evening was the overall prize giving and last pasta and concert of a rock band that lasted till late hours with show of pictures from Sportograf.

I think we are bit spoiled from Dryland and Cape Epic organizing where they serve us great food and wash our bikes. But they did a good job and there were spectacular views of the Alps and the route was fun even though maybe too much tar at times. ‘Squirtlube’ provided their products by the bike wash which was very helpful.

We finished at 8th place overall with strong competition of international riders and are happy about the result. 400 teams out of 462 finished.

PHOTO GALLERY

Big Thank you to ‘IItec Cape Town for supporting us, Nature Delicacies, Barre Body nutrition, Gu Energy SA, my parents for dooming along and our husbands for letting us go!

 

Greyton Classic 15th of June

We stayed in Greyton for the weekend so it was nice to wake up not too early and could cycle from town to the start as a warm up 20min sharp pace as it was really chilly but beautiful morning. Standing on the start line with Lara Woolley, my hubby and my team mate Caren Henschel we were in the front row of the start. It was a nice fast start and some new single track up and down all the way to the fist water point. Lara took off as usually with the front bunch of boys and Caren close behind her. I pushed hard to keep up with Nina Sender and Desire around me. I felt good and strong and thought me and the other two girls will have a nice race for the third place. Unfortunately just before the first water point I tried to change gear too quickly and in steep short climb. I heard a bad noise got off my bike and saw my back derailer hanging loose! I stopped to check what happened and one of the organizer had a look and said: I’m afraid your race is over. My hanger borked and I didn’t have a spare one. I had to get a lift with one of the locals back to the start. Unlucky! But you can learn from my mistake! Don’t change gear in steep climb with power and carry a spare hanger with you! Each bike has a different one so good to have your own. It’s small so it’s light to carry in your pocket. Lara Woolley came first as expected and few minutes behind her my strong team mate Carren Henschel.

They both said the route had changed to more fun and more difficult from previous years. Organizing was not by PPA any more but was good organized with registration on Friday in town already.

There was a trail run on Sunday. It can be a great weekend for whole family.

 

160 km, 2250m ascent, circular route around Malmesbery
Terain: mostly gravel, farm roads

We have put together a team of 4 ladies for this race consitsting of me, Carel Henschel, Lara Woolley and Diana Carolin. Unfortunately there weren’t enough ladies teams so we head off for a solo race.

It was still dark when we got to start at 6 30am but as we stood at starting lane at 7 30am there was beautiful sunrise.

Second water point had big choice of delicious muffins and rusks and tea and coffee. There were few steep climbs straight after that.

Caren is now lean, mean and fast:) I hang on behind her wheel while she was chattering away with fellow riders. We got to 3rd water point alias lunch point at great time of 3:30 mins. I was getting tired at Carens pace so let her and the group at 95kms. If I knew I was gonna ride on my own all the way to finish I would have tried to hang on with them harder.

There was a long stretch of mostly flat terain and slight wind so I eased of into my slower pace and went. Suddenly no riders around me till water point 4 where I got a group of 3 guys and 1 girl but as the climbs came I couldn’t keep up and could feel my body having enough.

After about 10th times when I thought that must be the last hills another lady caught up with me which would usually get my competitive soul going but it did not do much yesterday.

Last 5 kms were finally down hill and I made it to the finish with time 7h:45m.

As I got there the prize giving was on and I could get a quick pic of Caren on podium for her 3rd place. It was a great news as there were some strong girls. She managed to pass few girls along the route after dropping her group of boys behind for being too slow and sitting behind her wheel:)

Lara Woolley racing snake came 2nd 7 mins before Carren.
Di Carolin had unfortunatelly pulled out at 80kms after having mechanical problems.
Well done ladies!

Overall great organizing and great race and nice training for Transalp!