Roller Coaster Ride

We awoke to a beautiful sunrise over the Orange River, marking our first full day in South Africa. Everyone had enjoyed a sleep-in as we move into later departure times for the rest of our journey south and, believe me, after a month of 5am starts…6am is bliss! Rolling hills have returned so after bumping along the 10km dirt road stretch from the Fiddlers Creek campsite to the paved road, everyone enjoyed a smooth ride and, “joy of joys”, an almighty tailwind that blew them directly to Springbok. The terrain was similar to that of a roller coaster ride and as you crested the top of one hill, there were ups and downs as far as you can see, and the downs were incredibly good fun and fast. Along the way the rocky sandstone hills lined the roads creating an almost lunar landscape dotted with low lying shrubs and trees. The race pack was blown apart as Chris decided that he wanted to “ride the hills fast” so Adrie was the only rider that went with him. Instead of the normal large group arriving, the lunch truck was a scene of constant arrivals and departures of riders eager to continue the last 59kms to Springbok and get new currency, enjoy toasted sandwiches and the gourmet fare of the Superspar grocery store. The Springbok caravan park is our abode for the night and, although a little windy, there is plenty of grass to camp on, a cold pool and a store and we have a barbecue happening so yes…bike heaven is good!