A very engaging assault on the senses.

Each day has started off with plenty of happy greetings, light hearted banter and a relaxed vibe that had made this ‘race’ seem like an adventure holiday.

Muddy bikes are cleaned by a team of pressure hose operators and stacked for your convenience. The mechanics attend to any biking needs, and energy supplements are on sale.

Well after sunrise at 7am and a few steaming coffees, we set off on our final journey of 83k’s from Elgin to Hermanus. The route took in the historical Old Houwhoek Pass road, along with a forgotten valley, swung at speed through Bot River town and climbed the wine farm clad hills of Hemel en Aarde region. A startling view of Walker Bay greeted riders on the final summit and the day ended in a pleasant coastal duel with the South Easter.

After Day 2’s endless miles of thrilling single track, we did not expect the race to get any better, but the contrast in riding of each day was invigorating. The route director is a guy that cares more about the riders enjoyment of the trail, than blasting through to the finish.

He took us through thick vegetation, wound us through forests and swamps and over rivers, he made us climb hills, but not too far and gave speedy, yet safe descents. It all added up to non stop mountain biking pleasure.

One unlucky front rider took a dip in a pig-manure bog, as his front wheel got snagged by the deep hole. His mates helped him out, at arms length, and insisted he wash off in the nearby river before continuing.

Sadly it ended at lunch time today, but with many photos to show friends and family the memories will continue.

My advice – book early for next year!