Day 7 of 9 - 87km from Underberg to McKenzie’s club near Donnybrook

Todays stage was the first of the race to have a batch start. We started in A batch, admittedly at the back of A batch. No pressure!  We completed the stage in 4h03. We were both particularly strong today but unfortunately Stephen rode over a porcupine quill and landed up with a puncture about 10km from the finish.
After a speedy repair job, we managed to claw a few positions back and finished in 58th place.

For the Sani2C riders, the route is very different, and much better than previous years. The riding conditions up until this stage have been perfect. The track is compact, with very little mud.

We continue to nurse our sore bottoms. Nothing seems to help anymore! Fortunately, we have had very little bike admin, which has made for great riding.

Tomorrows ride is 93km to Jolivet. I believe a whole lot more single track has been added in the Umkomaas valley. Sounds like fun! Update to follow.

 7am 'A' batch start.

The Salomon boys slightly ahead of us... again.

I think that's how they finished as well.



Mckenzies Club bike wash. It was always a good sign

to see only a few bikes at the end of the ride.