This morning we crossed the Kei River by Ferry, or on what we might call a floating death trap! We had been told about the contrast from Morgan's Bay into the Transkei region, and they were right. There are huts dotted around huge areas of land, women walking, what must be miles, carrying pots on their heads and we are approached by local children excited to see the bikes riding past.
Today, riding has been one of the most challenging things I have ever done. Very steep, rocky descents and ascents that I would not have believed I could have ridden, and deep sand that makes the front wheel drift from side to side. Everyone has had a few falls, but thankfully, so far, no major injuries.
It has been mentally and physically exhausting but also very rewarding. Tomorrow is a "rest day". When the last group was here two weeks ago they visited a local school and found they had no desks or chairs. They raised £1,800 between them and tomorrow 116 sets of furniture arrive. We are going to the school to help with the delivery and also to see if there are any other projects we can get involved in which we are all eager to do. I will try to send some photos of the school if the connections are available.
Tony rides for life
In November 2007, Tony Hughes, MD of International Training Consultancy, Huthwaite International, is to take part in an off-road motorcycle trek, known as Enduro Africa, in aid of Riders for Health. Tony will tackle 8 days of dusty and demanding riding across 2,500km's of some of South Africa's most rugged and isolated terrain - the famous Wild Coast.
Riders for Health is a registered charity which operates motorcycle rider training of medical staff. Motorcycles are used by trained staff; Doctors, Nurses, Dentists and emergency Surgeons at Riders for Health to deliver medical products and medical care throughout remote areas of Africa to improve the lives of many people in desperate need, very often making a life and death difference. The motorcycle, which Tony will ride, will be donated to Riders for Health and the funds raised will go towards the running costs of the motorcycles used.
Riders for Health is a registered charity which operates motorcycle rider training of medical staff. Motorcycles are used by trained staff; Doctors, Nurses, Dentists and emergency Surgeons at Riders for Health to deliver medical products and medical care throughout remote areas of Africa to improve the lives of many people in desperate need, very often making a life and death difference. The motorcycle, which Tony will ride, will be donated to Riders for Health and the funds raised will go towards the running costs of the motorcycles used.
Wednesday 14 November 2007
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Map of Tony's route
Journey
Day 1
The first day sees us depart Port Elizabeth where I'll first be introduced to my trusty Honda CTX which will be my much loved companion for the 8 days which are to follow! From here we are to ride through the Big 5 Reserves of Kariega. Apparently a day which sees us faced with a variety of terrain from Sand Dunes to tar.
Day 2
A big day ahead as we reach the banks of the Cowie River in Port Alfred and then head inland and reach the port City of East London covering over 300km of land.
Day 3
First we cross the mighty Kei river by motorised ferry. Then apparently a day of great technical ability as we face the mighty Gorge across the Qora river. This route takes us along the coast past the wreck of the famous Jacaranda which is one of many vessels that have been sunk by this stretch of coastline. Waves up to 30 metres have been reported by wide eyed captains on this stretch and the scenery is supposed to be amazing.
Day 4
I imagine a well deserved rest day as we change oils and give our hard working CTX's a once over ready for the next leg of the journey.
Day 5
The Hole in The Wall, The Haven Nature Reserve and the Mighty Bashee river are just a few of the riding delicacy's that are to challenge us on Day 5.
Day 6
The Wild Wild side awaits. The days ride is to see us hug the rugged coastline past the villages of Coffee Bay, Mpande and Presley Bay. A day that is said to challenge your riding ability with rocky river crossings, muddy forest sections and the fast grass banks next to the beach. Hopefully an awesome day!
Day 7
On Day 7 day we head through Port St John's nestled on the banks of the mighty Umzimvubu River and enter the Wild Coast to experience the Mkambati Gorge and mighty Mtentu River.
Day 8
Through the 'Valley of a 1000 hills' and homeward bound to Durban. Hopefully it will be a proud moment when we hand over our Honda's to Riders for Health where they'll be used by medical staff, who will cover much of the very same terrain which we've covered over the past 8 days, improving the lives of those in desperate need, very often saving lives.
The first day sees us depart Port Elizabeth where I'll first be introduced to my trusty Honda CTX which will be my much loved companion for the 8 days which are to follow! From here we are to ride through the Big 5 Reserves of Kariega. Apparently a day which sees us faced with a variety of terrain from Sand Dunes to tar.
Day 2
A big day ahead as we reach the banks of the Cowie River in Port Alfred and then head inland and reach the port City of East London covering over 300km of land.
Day 3
First we cross the mighty Kei river by motorised ferry. Then apparently a day of great technical ability as we face the mighty Gorge across the Qora river. This route takes us along the coast past the wreck of the famous Jacaranda which is one of many vessels that have been sunk by this stretch of coastline. Waves up to 30 metres have been reported by wide eyed captains on this stretch and the scenery is supposed to be amazing.
Day 4
I imagine a well deserved rest day as we change oils and give our hard working CTX's a once over ready for the next leg of the journey.
Day 5
The Hole in The Wall, The Haven Nature Reserve and the Mighty Bashee river are just a few of the riding delicacy's that are to challenge us on Day 5.
Day 6
The Wild Wild side awaits. The days ride is to see us hug the rugged coastline past the villages of Coffee Bay, Mpande and Presley Bay. A day that is said to challenge your riding ability with rocky river crossings, muddy forest sections and the fast grass banks next to the beach. Hopefully an awesome day!
Day 7
On Day 7 day we head through Port St John's nestled on the banks of the mighty Umzimvubu River and enter the Wild Coast to experience the Mkambati Gorge and mighty Mtentu River.
Day 8
Through the 'Valley of a 1000 hills' and homeward bound to Durban. Hopefully it will be a proud moment when we hand over our Honda's to Riders for Health where they'll be used by medical staff, who will cover much of the very same terrain which we've covered over the past 8 days, improving the lives of those in desperate need, very often saving lives.
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