South Africa marked a key milestone in this journey……edging towards the END!
Throughout this last week I tried to use the time to enjoy the last few riding days, mainly by myself.
Throughout this whole journey the mornings had always brought me the most joy feeling somehow special. Generally blessed with cooler temperatures, and seeing the world come to life each day had been truly magical. This will be one of the things I will miss the most.
The final week was also a time for reflection and some mental preparation for real life, which was coming around the corner fast.
The riding in South Africa was varied, from long gravel stretches to hitting the hills again. My body protested massively, particularly my knees which on some days felt like they would explode. A definite consequence of riding 4 different bikes through Zambia. But thankfully no long lasting damage which can’t be reversed quickly.
The weather was cold, compared to the hot temperatures of East Africa and Namibia. A real reintroduction to British weather. My temperature gauge now protests at lower than 15 degrees!! So god help me come the winter.
It was hard to comprehend the achievement and experience we had all shared over the last four months. I regularly get asked now “what was it like?” Something which is ridiculously hard to answer, and only the 15 people who travelled the whole distance and the support staff will only ever know the true answer to this question.
The final day was a stark contrast to the opening day in Cairo, where fog covered the pyramids.
From virtually the start of the ride we were blessed with picture perfect views of Table Mountain.
It is hard to comprehend something I planned for so long has now come to an end. The achievement feels equally difficult to quantify. A lifetime of experiences in just four months, I am sure it will take a while for it to all sink in.
Was I sad it ended? No, as now new and exciting things can begin. But for now some rest and recovery as I settle back to a life in-front of a laptop. As I dream and plan for the next crazy idea…………….
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