Day 13 - I just don't get it

After yesterdays disappointment about not getting the correct parts, I decided to sort myself out and just get on with the race - do what you gotta do.

We left at 7am for an early portage which had taken the race leaders about 9 hours to do in the snow. About 3 hours later I was sitting having coffee at the farm at the other side of the portage happy that I had no mishaps.

It was then that I was off on the long dirt road section (which I have learnt to dislike because my ass gets so sore) and was at the support station by 2:30pm. I picked up my box, had some food and drink and headed off to the next support station at Toekomst.

This section is one of my favourites on the trail. Last year we did it in the dark and had a ball. This year I managed to do it in the light - it was absolutely spectacular. The path is a slow downhill through a narrow valley. There's abundant wildlife and I saw plenty of buck near to the track. I was nearly taken out by a startled kudu. It's been a real treat this time - I have seen lots of wildlife close up all along the route.

I also went past the "holy shit, is this the main road?" point that amused Gerrit so much last year which brings me to the title of the post. Gerrit heard of my problem with the parts, got hold of Linden Cycles and Olaf and is currently driving here to deliver the parts. I have no idea what possessed him to do this but I am eternally grateful for his kindness. Not sure how I will ever be able to return the favour.

So I'm hoping that his efforts will get Chocolate back to normal again and I can pick up some speed. My legs are feeling fantastic and strangely enough my mind is also hanging tough. Just before arriving here, I sat on the side of some long-forgotten road and watched a once in a lifetime sunset that stretched right across the sky. I am truly privileged to have this opportunity to do this race. Sometimes it's hard but most times it's heaven.