LONG, HOT, DIRT, MIGIES, TOUGH, Now tired

Day 2 of riding in Sudan has come and gone, it was a tough day had by all. A total of 112km, 60km of dirt and sand up to lunch which really worked and tested everyone from the racers, expeditions riders and the staff that were riding and sweeping for the day.

 

As mentioned the fist 60km was 100% dirt and sand, everyone plodded their way through. Despite it being difficult and tiring it was beautiful. Lovely arid landscapes with a few rugged mountains jutting out of the desert. We went through 2 villages today on the way to lunch, the first Akasha. Akasha was small but a perfect location, slightly raised above the might Nile, with spectacular views downstream looking over the greenery lining the banks. The locals were friendly and met us with their baby donkey.

 

The second village Abri was, it was quite large in comparison to the previous one. We were welcomed by groups of children lining the streets with big smiles and friendly handshakes. The town itself was very well kept with immaculate mud brick homes with beautifully painted gates, doors and windows.

 

The last 20km before lunch seemed to drag a little and I was only averaging about 17km/hr and desperate for a refill of water and some food.

 

Lunch was very exciting to see and the Indaba staff Ronal and George put on another great spread, unfortunately it was rushed by most because of the million little pesky, midgy flies. Although it was a pleasant surprise to hear that the afternoon would be 100% paved roads.

 

The following 52km after lunch to camp seemed never ending. I left lunch thinking this will be great, back on pavement! But the 40 degree heat and the fact my legs were toast from the morning meant I still struggled to get much over 15km per hour and I don’t think I was alone.

 

Camp tonight is by the Nile, and everyone enjoyed a well deserved swim. The camp is quite beautiful and we just watched the sun setting over the Nile casting a perfect reflection. Unfortunately the Midgy’s are still around and we are all praying once it’s totally dark that they will give us a break.