….and we saw four of the big five including a leopard in a tree with a kill!
The new K2C Cycle Tour, started in the Timbavati at dawn on the 15 July, and traversed on exclusive private roads through Thornybush and Kapama, and ended back at the Timbavati hanger at dusk. It was a sublime success. Someone was overheard saying that “the route was absolutely on the money – don’t change it”.
On day, the Rotary Team had an early, dark start, working form 04:00 setting everything up the before dawn start to the tour. All the ambient fires had to be lit, and because the start of the tour was in big 5 country no banners, and start/finish arches were left out in the open overnight. The hyenas and elephant were sure to get them!
An excited young rider arriving on the morning yelled that as she came around the corner in the middle of the veld, she saw the burning braziers and the lit-up hanger, which was a scene of sheer magic. It was rather lovely when all the riders had arrived in their stylish designer dung beetle riding jerseys and jackets, as they hovered around the fires having pancakes and coffee before being rallied to rollcall by their peloton leaders. The four pelotons set off at 10-minute intervals to the sound of the kudu horn.
Once the riders were on their way the organization for lunch and dinner got under way. The water points which were so luxuriously run by the Thornybush lodges, and the delicious eggy breakfast supplied by Haenertsburg Rotary Club, had started long before dawn to ensure that they were all set up and ready as the riders approached for their carbo drives. “The food was world class – brekkers and supper(s) – not to mention the amazing people preparing and serving it all up.”
The whole effort of organizing an event of this magnitude is concentrated on the logistics and attention to detail. “It was a fantastic K2C this year. The effort and organisation that went into this event was incredible and it really showed. The day ran seamlessly, and it was by far the best event I have ever been a part of – safety and back-up – seamless,” was a riders comment. Everyone was of the opinion that the guides and support riders were exceptional, and that they definitely made the experience well worth the sore bums.
“I hope that all those involved know just how much their effort is appreciated and noted, it was a privilege to be a part of such an incredible endeavour, and I will continue to have K2C on my calendar as long as my legs will allow. The prizes were also great,” said a happy competitor. Another went on to say “many thanks for an epic experience. It was world class and certainly a highlight in my life”.
In the words of the riders who participated, we will definitely hold the event in July next year. Watch this space.
