Day 9 - Snow!

During the Ride to Rhodes finishers' dinner, David mentioned how this race brings out true character. Today was one of those days that does it's best to do an impromptu character test.


Andy walked out the door this morning and said that it was spitting - I think he meant with rain. I started riding and realised that the spitting was in fact light snow. The possible wind nightmare that I mentioned yesterday gave way to an overcast cold day - the maximum temperature was 1C and the minimum was -1C. The day started as a normal cold Karoo day which gradually transitioned to a white winter wonderland.

I didn't know that there are different types of snow - it starts as big flaky drifting snow, then when the temperature drops a bit and the wind picks up you get horizontal sheets of ice which catches into into your face and into any exposed skin. The last type is the dreamy balls that is advertised in American movies -it really is like that and quite mesmerising.

All 3 types are really, really cold and my feet were so icy and sore. For the first time in the race, my mental resolve wavered but a hot cup of coffee and a chat to Corrinne put me back on the road.


Can't say much about the terrain today but the fields were white and the roads were muddy.

Our overnight stop is the same one that I stayed at when I was sick last year. Steph and Bill are looking after us like visiting royalty - washing is being done, bikes are washed and I am expecting a super meal. I don't know what the snow equivalent of an oasis is but this is it.

The guys all had a hard day but the spirit in the group is still good and we are progressing well. Apparently Kevin is quite close to catching up again but unfortunately Dillon has withdrawn.