In Cairo & Ready to Go

The sleepless nights and fevered reveries of anticipation can finally be put to rest. The hubbub of Arabic and the speckled linear script on local signs confirm the 2008 Tour d’Afrique is no longer a dream.

Giza’s Cataract hotel is abuzz. Bleary eyed riders are assembling bikes, unpacking bags, and fighting through jet lag. Lost bikes and bags are trickling from the airport at a frustratingly slow pace. However, these annoyances are offset with the pleasure of matching profile pictures with a personality and getting to know the people they will traverse a continent with.

Worries of spare parts, gear, and other preparations are being both soothed and exacerbated by idle conversation. “You brought how many tires?” “Are you sure that will fit in your red box?” “Didn’t they say only to bring one rim?” are among the scores of questions shooting across the breakfast table.

With the start of the race only two days away, the atmosphere is electric.

For family, friends, past and future riders, prepare for the vicarious adventure of a lifetime.