May 2010
Addo 25 mile and 50 mile trail runs
For us it turned out to be an Addo 52kay trail run
A few months ago Andrew Barton had told us about a trail run that he had done last year. As far as I can remember, Gerald said that he would be doing the 25Miler while Andrew was planning to do the 50miler. A number of us took up the challenge and Ronel entered the 50 with Andrew. Adrienne, Pat and I thought Gerald entered the 25. I was mistaken and Gerald had entered the 50. So now it would be Pat, Adrienne and myself running the 25 together.
I have done a few trail runs before but I think that I had forgotten quite how difficult a trail run is. I took my training lightly. I had been very busy in the month prior to this run and had not done any long distance running at all. In the week of the Run I did one Moffat 15kay with the backpack but apart from that I did occasional morning runs which are barely 10kays.
The organisers of this event are Extreme Marathons. This is a family of Nadia and Etienne from Mossel Bay. Nadia sent out a whole pack of information emails and we were able to check the website for any other information we required. Unfortunately no amount of reading can prepare you for an event of this nature. A few days before the run we received an email to say that the start had changed from in the village of Kirkwood to a venue just outside of Kirkwood. This added about 4kays to the distance.
I had asked Adrienne to collect my Number as they were all going to drive through on Friday. Registration was at the Addo National Park main camp. I prepared myself with my backpack and a few essentials. I also took a small waterproof bag that Nicci and Stefan had given me. I would use this to carry my phone. We had workmen in our house doing the flooring and our house was a mess but I managed to get a good night's rest and woke up refreshed at 03.30am on Saturday morning. I had put all of my kit out the night before and by just after 04.00am I was on the road to Kirkwood. I took Barbara's Corsa Bakkie as Michael would be collecting us from Zuurberg in my car.
The weather had been predicted to be overcast but no rain. I saw that there had been light showers the night before but as I drove towards Uitenhage I encountered heavy rain showers. I was not prepared with a waterproof top for rain but there was nothing that I could do now so pressed on. The drive to Kirkwood took me about an hour and 20 minutes. The start was at a ranch called Lookout. As you reach the T-Junction from the Uitenhage-Graff Reinette road you make an immediate left and Lookout is on your left. I drove up a dirt road for a few hundred meters and found the Lapa where there were a number of cars.
They marked my name as present and I was able to use the toilet and then was ready to start. Adrienne, Pat, Gerald, Andrew, Ronel were all there. I also saw Shane Norris who I gave my finish tog bag to for his vehicle to take to the end. I looked for Chris Gedye but could not find him. Also Christophe Opperman and Sharon Jessop were on the list of entrants but I new saw them at all. Trevor Hawkins and friend Daniel Melin were there. This would be their second time doing this event.
Adrienne put her tog bag in the Bakkie. There was a photo taking session under the start banner. Etienne, the organiser gave us some final instructions and we left at about 06.15 down the dirt road to the main road to Kirkwood. Many of the runners had head lamps. We jogged along this road and past the outskirts of the village. Within minutes it was light. I could see that Andrew was taking strain. He told me that he had been suffering an Achilles injury.
Robin Fourie ran past. I immediately thought that he must have taken Chris Darke's entry as Chris was injured with a stress fracture and was out of running. We jogged out of the village and past the local township area. It was a colourful scene with the locals just waking up to brush teeth and watch the runners passing by. Camera's (and phone camera's) were taken out and within the first hour we were taking pictures galore. Michelle Elfick and Ronel passed us. They were doing the 50 and we would not see them again. Gerald caught us up to tell us that Andrew had pulled out injured.
At about five kays, just as we entered the game park, we came to a fork. The 25 Mile participants took the right fork and Gerald took the left fork. He was running with a man who he had met but we were all worried about him running on his own. The 50milers would now run an extra 13kay loop.
Shortly into the run we came across streams and large pools of water. Each time we would step gingerly across trying to avoid getting our takkies wet. We had met up with Susan Jurgens from Mpumalanga. Her husband (Flip)was doing the 50. It seems that he is a bit of a trail running freak. He has twice won the Augrabies trail run and has even run the Desert Run in America where you have to run 180kays in 40 hours carrying everything yourself to be awarded a belt buckle. Susan told us that he would be taking it easy today. Susan told us that Flip is a vet who consults for chicken farms in the Mpumalanga and the Free State area's.
Once we were in the Addo Park the rest of the run was on dirt tracks. Mainly Jeep tracks where we were able to run in the road. There were many sections where it was uncomfortable to run and we would walk these sections. We also walked every up hill. It did not seem long in to the run when we came to the first checkpoint. They had a real spread for us including potato, banana, tea, coffee, water and energy mix, Pepsi and sweets. I met up with Robin Fouries wife, Ronwyn. She confirmed that Robin had taken Chris Darke's number.
The people who are prepared to man these check point / refreshment tables are all volunteers and it is amazing to see how cheerful and willing they are. At each table we would be listed as arriving and as leaving. This is essential in this type of event as it is possible for an athlete to become lost or disoriented.
We pressed on and with the first of the 50milers passing us we realised what it is to be really fit. He came charging past with just a water bottle in his hand. As we were negotiating one of the water obstacles another of the 50's came past us. He did not bother with trying to keep his feet dry and splashed through the pool. So at the next pool I decided to follow suite and then the whole group of us were almost knee deep in water.
As it turned out this did not make any difference to our feet. Later in the run I saw that all three of the girls in our group changed socks. I had only one pair but in any event the socks and shoes seemed to dry out pretty quickly.
We came to the second check point. Again there was a real spread. At each table I would take in as much as I could. Potato and banana, Pepsi, fill the bladder in my backpack and store some sweets for the road. At this point I finally met Nadia the organiser. She was running the 25 as well and would try for a good time. We never saw here again and presumed that she had missed her goal of 8.30hours.
Shortly after this table we started the really big hill. It took us about an hour to reach the top. It was a real slog up a steep incline and a never ending hill that every time you think that you are at the top there is more hill ahead. It was on this climb that I met up with Robyn Reid from George. She was with her parents who she told me were a little further back. Robyn would walk the entire distance. We next saw Robyn at the finish. She was far ahead of us and must have walked at a really good steady pace. Susan had showed us the mountain that we would have to climb. It had looked ominous. The real thing was as tough as any climb could be.
Pat was a little way behind us but we had agreed to stick together and we would wait for her when she got too far behind. We tried to jog as often as possible but these would be for short distances before we would reach another uphill. Many of the 50milers were passing us. We met up with a couple from Johannesburg. They too were doing the 50kay; Graham and Jennifer Morrison who we would pass and then they would pass us for most of the day.
Finally at the top of the hill we reached the third checkpoint. I seemed to recognise one of the ladies there. It turned out to be Rufka who is at the Dresden Coffee shop in Rink street. I saw Rufka and her husband a few weeks later and he told me that their Landrover was the only vehicle that was able to climb the steep hill on the muddy roads. He was planning to volunteer for the Augrabies seconding.
We waited for Pat who was only minutes behind us. Here at last we were able to make and receive phone calls. Adrienne has entrusted carrying of her phone/camera to me as I had this really handy water proof sling pouch that Nicci & Stefan had given me for a birthday. Adrienne would take and MMS photos to her family the whole day. This check point was about the half way mark in distance. At this stage I thought we were in good time for about a 8 to 9 hour time. I phoned Michael to let him know of our progress. Michael would drive through from PE to Zuurberg to fetch us later.
At the top of the escarpment I was able to phone Nicci to find out how their morning had gone. Stefan and Nicci were at Wellington where they were taking part in the Safari Dried Fruit 21kay. Stefan had this wish to complete a half marathon in under 2 hours. Nicci had run the 5kay in 38 minutes and told me that she had watched as Stefan completed his 21 in 2hours and 10 seconds. It was quite a milestone for him and they were both elated with the results.
From here we would be able to do quite a bit of jogging. This is the best part of the run. You are able to see vast valleys and hills on both sides of the hills and necks that you run past. At each turn there is another breathtaking view to admire. Many photo's were taken. At one stage I feel the urge to see if the :"Kranse Antwoord Gee" so I give a wild and loud shout and true enough the hills echo to my call. It was good to have Susan with us as she was doing her second 25miler and remembered various features and distances. We walked / ran this section of the event with relative ease. More and more of the 50milers would pass us.
We reached what we thought would be the very highest point: there was a beacon located here. The two walking ladies passed us. They looked like they were on a very serious attempt to do well. A number of runners and walkers had "Ski Sticks' to assist them. I once tried hiking with a stick but found it to be a burden and have never walked with a hiking stick again. The Walkers would stride out with arms pumping. Pat looked at her GPS to tell us that 5.15hours had passed and that we were at 35kays. In our calculations this meant about 15kays to go. Just then Etienne came past in his four wheeler and I asked him how much further to go. He told me that it was 17kays from the next checkpoint which was about 2kays ahead.
This was a bit of a blow and we now calculated that the total distance was going to be closer to 52kays. We reached the next check point, registered our numbers, had plenty to eat again and pressed on. Susan had explained that it would not be long after this point that we would begin a serious descent. At this stage we were still high up on the ridge looking down into deep valleys and kranses.
The weather had been really kind to us. At no stage was it so hot that we were in trouble. Most of the day the sky was overcast with cloud cover. Once or twice a cool breeze had blown from the north but we were never cold nor were we over heating. The only time that I had felt the heat was when we were ascending the first steep climb and water was dripping off my face.
Susan showed us a look out point were we could see down to the river and valley below. We had not seen any game. I kept on wondering if we would come across any Elephant or Rhino. Susan assured us that they were enclosed behind the fence that we were running along. That was until we reached an open gate to this so called enclosure. As we were descending some of the really steep drops one of the 50milers came past. He was carrying two hiking sticks which he used to assist himself up hill.
At one point, on a steepish downhill, I got excited and tried to jog, but with tired legs, I miscalculated and tripped. I was lucky that all that was really hurt was my ego. I had small scratches on my knee which stung for a while but this was a solid reminder to behave myself. Finally we reached what appeared to be the bottom of the valley. There was a kind of farm with cattle and grassy area. I suppose that the Game Park and the local people come to some kind of arrangement when it comes to farming in a nature reserve.
We came to the last of the check points. This was down in the valley and the people manning this table had camped out for the night. There was a toilet there which the girls found to be a real relief. There must have been 5 or six tents where whole families had camped in this remote valley with no reception, limited water supply and no electricity. They told me that the night had been mild but in previous years they had been really cold in the night. Waiting for Pat gave us a short time to recover.
The people at the final refreshment station told us that the remaining distance was just 8kays. It was familiar territory for me as this valley is the same route as the Zuurberg mountain run that Achilles (Bob Stedman)hosts. I have not run the race for some years but have a permanent number due to having completed 10 of them. We climbed over the turnstile and from here it would be a single lane pathway. Previously we had been running along jeep tracks. Shortly after the turnstile we came to the large pool. I had anticipated this and had worn my bathing costume.
I took off my running stuff and had a short but refreshing swim in murky water. The girls pressed on. I got dressed again and jogged up to where Pat was a little way behind Adrienne and Susan. Robin Fourie came from the opposite direction. He was going back to the last checkpoint where he would meet his wife and drive back for his car. He too, complained about how tough the final 8kay section had been.
This section was a really long slog. We did hardly any running as the terrain did not lend itself to getting into any kind of stride. Our legs and bodies were really tired and we were disinclined to run. Many years ago my family did the Zuurberg mountain run with me. We would run the race and then everyone would stay for the breakfast that was part of the whole event. There were always piles of Lucky Draws and our family seemed to be particularly inclined to drive home examining our treasures.
Most of the last 8kays was a walk. The trail is a steady climb until finally we reached what is the actual hill leading up to the Zuurberg hotel. It was a long and tiring climb, mostly steps and switchbacks.
At this stage I thought, with good memories but with a sad heart, of our late friend, Carel Boshoff whose duty it had been to bring water to the runners on the Zuurberg mountain run. I also remembered that this was where I had first met Sonja and Erna who now run with the MPRG. Their fiend Willie van Jaarsveld was doing the 25mile.
Up and up the trail led us. Susan was in front showing us the way. I had thought that we would climb up through the valley with which I was familiar but we turned left and finally came to the entrance gate and back onto a road. We were able to jog the final 500 meters to the hotel. As we approached the finish we took hands and the four of us finished together.
We had taken just less than 10 hours. Susan told us that she had run about 8.30 last year but she did not complain. Last year she had been on her own the whole way. It would be a lonely and tiring trail to be on your own for so long. Michael was there to greet us. Daryl and Eve Raubenheimer were taking times and handing out medals. Eve handed me my tog bag that Shane had left for me. I was happy to put on a clean shirt and a warm top. Michelle's family, Trevor's family, Andrew Barton were all there. Pat elected to stay to watch Ronel come past. They would be support for our runners for the final 27kays to Addo. Susan was not worried about her husband and confident that he could handle the distance.
I never saw Shane or Chris but they must have had a good run. Some of the results from the two events:
52kay event:
The winner finished in just under 5hours.
Robin Fourie was 5th overall and first Achillean in 5.38 with Chris Gedye just behind him in 6th position with 5.49. Christoff Opperman did a 6.21 in 17th position. Willie van Jaarsveld was 19th at 6.28. Sharon Jessop who I have met on Trail Runs before finished in 31st position at 6.48. Shane Norris who had told me that this was to be part of his Comrades Training and he would be taking it easy managed 34th position at 6.49. Trevor Hawkins (Crusaders) was in 58th position at 9.42 and we were just behind: 60th (position not age) in 9.49. The last person in was 87th in 13.25.
In the long event (around 85kays) there were 42 finishers. The first competed this event at Addo main camp in 8.24 while Allison Pledger, Michelle Elfick and Ronel Scheepers finished in 13.49 with Gerald third last man home having been on the road for 16 hours and 44 minutes. He later told me how he had been frightened by a large elephant near to the fence where he walked into the park area. As Gerald finished he had been given special attention and care by one of the nurses. Gerald simply loves to be fussed over by a female attendant.
After a short recovery Michael, Adrienne & I packed up and left for Kirkwood where the Bakkie was waiting. Susan got a lift with us as they had also left their vehicle there. An interesting story is that last weekend we had done the Triathlon and I had met up with Angela Guscot and boyfriend Trevor. This afternoon Michael told me that he works with Angela who had asked him if he knew Peter Giddy. Small world!
We swapped cars and were home by about 18.30. A bit stiff but strangely after a wash I felt no pain and no stiffness. I did not sleep that well as my legs would cramp from time to time and my hips were sore. We learned that Ronel and Michelle had passed Zuurberg about 90 minutes after we left and that Gerald was also through. Andrew reported that he was doing well and in good spirits. Gerald must have had to negotiate the last section before Zuurberg in the dark by torchlight. The 50 milers would have to do a further about 27kays of mainly downhill to the main road and then across and into the main Addo Camp site.
Showing posts with label PAT SCHEEPERS. Show all posts
Showing posts with label PAT SCHEEPERS. Show all posts
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Sunday, March 28, 2010
ST FRANCIS BAY TO JEFFRIES BAY MTB 42KAY EVENT 22 MARCH 2010
MONDAY 22 MARCH 2010
ST FRANCIS BAY TO JEFFRIES BAY MTB RACE.
I left home just before 8.00am. Barbara and Ally went back to the Level Two Gala that they had been at all weekend. The Gala was being held at the newly completed Newton Park swimming pool complex.
I met up with Gerald, Pat, Ronel and Alf Zhemke. Pat drove down with me. Gerald had four bikes on his rack and yet his car handled the roads perfectly. They have a new Hyundai 1600 that they use mainly for longer distance driving.
We drove to Humansdorp and then through to St Francis Bay. We found the start of the race at the Spar. As we were driving, Gerald phoned me to ask how we were going to get back to the cars. I was, at that stage, blissfully unaware that the race was a point to point and that we had to arrange our own logistics.
At the St Francis Spar we registered. It appears that there were only 9 MTB entrants last year and this year there were 18. We were lined up for the start and Robin gave us route instructions. I asked about a lift back and was assured that this would be sorted out.
We started at 10.15 and the Runners who would be running along the beach would start at 10.30. Crusadres; Graham and Robyn Elbourn and their friend Aletta were doing the run.
As we started the cycle Ronel and Pat went ahead. There were two ladies and Gerald and Alf behind me. The cycle started off with a slight up to the Main Road and then left at the golf course entrance. We rode for about 5 kays, crossing the Krom River with the West Wind on our left side. The wind was not a problem but also did not give us assistance at this stage.
Denise road past me and then I caught her. She told me that she was in training for Iron Man and that this was a little interlude for her. She was with her friend Michelle who was doing her first MTB event. Denise and Michelle are both members of the Charlo Running Club. No shocks on Michelle's bike and she would feel it as we then turned Right onto a really rough road with corrugations that made the bikes rattle. I heard Gerald comment later that he was pleased that he had secured his false teeth otherwise they may have fallen out. This was a fun section as the West Wind was blowing strongly behind us and we had a bit of a "Free Ride".
I was on my own for a while as Denise and Michelle had fallen back a bit. Alf was beginning to catch me. The route takes you to a Left turn past a Game Park, up a little hill and then past a right turn. From here you are able to see the people returning from a U-Turn. It gives the cyclists an idea where they stand in the pecking order.
I stayed on my own up to the turn. Pat and Ronel were just ahead of me and we had a short chat before they continued on their way. At the U-Turn I had a drink and rest. Alf passed me and carried on ahead. Denise and Michelle also went past and then it was just Gerald and myself at the tail of the race.
I knew for sure that there was no one behind us as the following Bakkie would be behind us for the rest of the race. He was following us in case one of these old ballies had a heart attack.
After the Out and Back section along the Game reserve section of the road we turned left along a number of farm roads and jeep tracks. This was probably the best section of the route as the roads meandered past cattle farms with ups and downs. Gerald had a "Pit Stop" and Denise & Michelle left us to our own devices for the rest of the race. We saw them ahead of us a number of times but never caught them again.
After the dirt road ended we came to the tar roads of Jeffries Bay West. This is the West end of J-Bay and the start of Martina Martenique which is a Marina holiday housing project with canals for the rich and famous who enjoy water sports. We had to turn into the West Wind for a short distance before heading down to the beach. Here the last of the Marshalls were happy to hear that we were the last two cyclists and that they could now pack up and go home.
The Bakkie left us. Gerald & I headed onto the Beach. I attempted to cycle this soft sand but ended up falling onto the beach. Gerald asked if I was hurt. I replied that the only thing that was bruised was my ego. I did not look up to see who was watching but pushed the bike to some firmer sand.
This was a fun section of the route. The sand was not too soft and we were able to find reasonably firm sand to cycle on. We had the Indian Ocean on our right hand side. This is the famous Jeffries Bay which is a Surfers Paradise. We saw a few of the Surfers as they attempted to find that perfect wave.
There are lots of crystal clear pools and had we not been cycling I would have loved a swim. We came across a group of locals who were collecting Shells. I asked them what they would do with the shells and the response was that they make ornaments and sell this to local traders. Jeffries Bay is also famous for the variety and beauty of the shells that can be collected along the beach.
Gerald and I enjoyed the beach with the wind following us until we finally reached the finish line. Pat and Ronel were there and Ronel was taking Photo's. She took a few stunning pics of us cycling with the ocean cascading behind us.
Now came the bit which we did not really enjoy: there was no arranged lift for us to St Francis Bay so we rode to the Savoy hotel where the Announcer Disco man set up his combi and played us music while he spoke almost non stop repeating that he was "just joking" every time he said something about somebody.
He then went on to do the prize giving which can be slick and fast but he chose to drag it out forcing us to listen to him and his comment about everyone and everything that he could think of. There were some lucky draw prizes and Alf, Pat and Ronel were winners of some kind of meal or the other. This turned out to be fortunate as Gerald and I were then able to scrounge a lift back to the start where we had left our cars. During the hour that it took us to return to them they were able to enjoy a bit of a meal.
Our lift was on the back of a Bakkie. Beggars cant be choosers and we were most grateful to the man who gave us a lift. We drove back to the finish at J-Bay where we loaded up the bikes and drove home. I doubt that we will do this event again: the late start, the logistics of the finish and collecting the vehicles and then the drive home made this a full days event which I had not really planned for. We only arrived home in the middle of the afternoon.
Gerald, his family, Alf and I had enjoyed the cycle but not the rest of what had to be done to do the whole event.
.
ST FRANCIS BAY TO JEFFRIES BAY MTB RACE.
I left home just before 8.00am. Barbara and Ally went back to the Level Two Gala that they had been at all weekend. The Gala was being held at the newly completed Newton Park swimming pool complex.
I met up with Gerald, Pat, Ronel and Alf Zhemke. Pat drove down with me. Gerald had four bikes on his rack and yet his car handled the roads perfectly. They have a new Hyundai 1600 that they use mainly for longer distance driving.
We drove to Humansdorp and then through to St Francis Bay. We found the start of the race at the Spar. As we were driving, Gerald phoned me to ask how we were going to get back to the cars. I was, at that stage, blissfully unaware that the race was a point to point and that we had to arrange our own logistics.
At the St Francis Spar we registered. It appears that there were only 9 MTB entrants last year and this year there were 18. We were lined up for the start and Robin gave us route instructions. I asked about a lift back and was assured that this would be sorted out.
We started at 10.15 and the Runners who would be running along the beach would start at 10.30. Crusadres; Graham and Robyn Elbourn and their friend Aletta were doing the run.
As we started the cycle Ronel and Pat went ahead. There were two ladies and Gerald and Alf behind me. The cycle started off with a slight up to the Main Road and then left at the golf course entrance. We rode for about 5 kays, crossing the Krom River with the West Wind on our left side. The wind was not a problem but also did not give us assistance at this stage.
Denise road past me and then I caught her. She told me that she was in training for Iron Man and that this was a little interlude for her. She was with her friend Michelle who was doing her first MTB event. Denise and Michelle are both members of the Charlo Running Club. No shocks on Michelle's bike and she would feel it as we then turned Right onto a really rough road with corrugations that made the bikes rattle. I heard Gerald comment later that he was pleased that he had secured his false teeth otherwise they may have fallen out. This was a fun section as the West Wind was blowing strongly behind us and we had a bit of a "Free Ride".
I was on my own for a while as Denise and Michelle had fallen back a bit. Alf was beginning to catch me. The route takes you to a Left turn past a Game Park, up a little hill and then past a right turn. From here you are able to see the people returning from a U-Turn. It gives the cyclists an idea where they stand in the pecking order.
I stayed on my own up to the turn. Pat and Ronel were just ahead of me and we had a short chat before they continued on their way. At the U-Turn I had a drink and rest. Alf passed me and carried on ahead. Denise and Michelle also went past and then it was just Gerald and myself at the tail of the race.
I knew for sure that there was no one behind us as the following Bakkie would be behind us for the rest of the race. He was following us in case one of these old ballies had a heart attack.
After the Out and Back section along the Game reserve section of the road we turned left along a number of farm roads and jeep tracks. This was probably the best section of the route as the roads meandered past cattle farms with ups and downs. Gerald had a "Pit Stop" and Denise & Michelle left us to our own devices for the rest of the race. We saw them ahead of us a number of times but never caught them again.
After the dirt road ended we came to the tar roads of Jeffries Bay West. This is the West end of J-Bay and the start of Martina Martenique which is a Marina holiday housing project with canals for the rich and famous who enjoy water sports. We had to turn into the West Wind for a short distance before heading down to the beach. Here the last of the Marshalls were happy to hear that we were the last two cyclists and that they could now pack up and go home.
The Bakkie left us. Gerald & I headed onto the Beach. I attempted to cycle this soft sand but ended up falling onto the beach. Gerald asked if I was hurt. I replied that the only thing that was bruised was my ego. I did not look up to see who was watching but pushed the bike to some firmer sand.
This was a fun section of the route. The sand was not too soft and we were able to find reasonably firm sand to cycle on. We had the Indian Ocean on our right hand side. This is the famous Jeffries Bay which is a Surfers Paradise. We saw a few of the Surfers as they attempted to find that perfect wave.
There are lots of crystal clear pools and had we not been cycling I would have loved a swim. We came across a group of locals who were collecting Shells. I asked them what they would do with the shells and the response was that they make ornaments and sell this to local traders. Jeffries Bay is also famous for the variety and beauty of the shells that can be collected along the beach.
Gerald and I enjoyed the beach with the wind following us until we finally reached the finish line. Pat and Ronel were there and Ronel was taking Photo's. She took a few stunning pics of us cycling with the ocean cascading behind us.
Now came the bit which we did not really enjoy: there was no arranged lift for us to St Francis Bay so we rode to the Savoy hotel where the Announcer Disco man set up his combi and played us music while he spoke almost non stop repeating that he was "just joking" every time he said something about somebody.
He then went on to do the prize giving which can be slick and fast but he chose to drag it out forcing us to listen to him and his comment about everyone and everything that he could think of. There were some lucky draw prizes and Alf, Pat and Ronel were winners of some kind of meal or the other. This turned out to be fortunate as Gerald and I were then able to scrounge a lift back to the start where we had left our cars. During the hour that it took us to return to them they were able to enjoy a bit of a meal.
Our lift was on the back of a Bakkie. Beggars cant be choosers and we were most grateful to the man who gave us a lift. We drove back to the finish at J-Bay where we loaded up the bikes and drove home. I doubt that we will do this event again: the late start, the logistics of the finish and collecting the vehicles and then the drive home made this a full days event which I had not really planned for. We only arrived home in the middle of the afternoon.
Gerald, his family, Alf and I had enjoyed the cycle but not the rest of what had to be done to do the whole event.
.
Monday, July 13, 2009
MOUNTAIN ZEBRA PARK
IMPOFU HIKING TRAIL
SATURDAY 11 JULY TO MONDAY 13TH JULY 2009.
On this hike:
Peter, Barbara and Ally (11) Giddy
Hannes, Jacqui, Calvyn (16)and Jordan (14) Zeelie
Stuart Laing (16)
Gerald and Pat Scheepers
Fred Kohler.
The hike had been planned for some time to start on Saturday 27th as this was the first day after school term ended. However the Zeelies were not able to make this weekend due to paddling committments in Plett and this is how it came about that we changed the dates. It was just as well as the original weekend was one of the coldest and wettest weekends that we have had in ages.
Maryna Baard (Susan Burri's friend) was due to hike with us. On the Thursday before the hike a couple of us (Maryna, Susan, Gerald, Adrienne and I) were running through Hallack Drive in the early morning and Maryna tripped and fell. She went down hard and fractured a bone in her arm and was unable to be with us.
Adrienne was leaving later this afternoon for Rome where she would be judging international diving. Her two children, Danielle and Matthew would be traveling to England where they would meet up with elder sister, Jennifer who is a Springbok Hockey player. Jennifer has paid for them to fly over. After the Diving they are all meeting to go hiking in the Alps and this is why Adrienne has been dedicated to her running in recent weeks.
The people administering the hike and the people at reception were most obliging and helpful. Jeannie helped me when we had to change dates, Robin phoned to make certain that the arrangements were correct, Jali assisted us at the reception and there was the man who gave us a talk about the hike and safety aspects. They were all incredibly friendly and helpful.
This would be the third time that Barbara and I would do this hike. The first time we completed the hike and it must have been around summer as the days were very hot and long. We did it with our children when they were still young and at school. The second attempt we completed the first day and then on the second day we climbed the first hill before I realised that I had a Kidney Stone and was in agony. I decided to turn back and the rest of the group did the same. So our second day was a really relaxed day as we hiked along the road to the second hut.
Stuart had not hiked a trail of this nature before. He remembered us from Rhodes where his dad, Andrew, had run the Rhodes marathon with us and we had all stayed at "Die Pastorie". Ally also remembered Stuart. They had played ping pong together. This was July 2005 when Andrew had received his permanent number at Rhodes. Andrew was up at Rhodes while we were on the hike. See Blog of July 2005: Rhodes Marathon.
Ally and her friends had been at the Walmer Methodist Holiday Club the whole week. Calvyn, Jordan and Stuart had been leaders at the Holiday club. From reports, this had been a most successful week of fun and teaching. Amber was not able to come on this hike as she had Ballet Classes which cannot be missed. She kindly wrote Ally a letter, telling her how much she wished that she could have been there.
Hannes and family left on Friday night and stayed over at his sister who lives in Cradock. Gerald left about a half hour before us. Fred followed me and we left at about 5.45am on Saturday morning. We filled up with petrol at Colchester. I had set my GPS and the distance from our house to the main gate of the Park was 255kays. We took a gentle drive averaging around 100kph. It was extremely relaxing. We stopped to look at some Buck that we saw about 50kays this side of Cradock. They looked like Impala but were darker (almost Black) with a white flash on the bridge of the nose. They are not listed in our game guide.
Our next stop was at the Daggaboer Farm stall. Fred purchased a pair of Mohair Boot socks. Barbara bought herself some biltong and a filter coffee. The drive to the main gate of the Park took us about 3 hours. As we drove the 12kays to the Camp area we saw Oribi, Zebra, Springbok, Eland and Kudu. This park has more than it's full of game to see.
At the main camp we met up with the rest of the group and registered for the hike. We were given a fairly comprehensive talk on safety as we were in the open where it is entirely possible to encounter wild animals including buffalo and Rhinosourus. Hannes later commented that the talk had been devised at some head office as they advised climbing a tree or running uphill. With a loaded backpack? Up Doring Boom? Yeah Right! Another interesting fact is that, as we were readying ourselves, Andy and Bev Bolton (with daughter and friend) drove into camp. They planned to spend the weekend doing some game viewing.
Impofu is the Xhosa name for Eland. The Xhosa word used for Zebra is Ikwagga (Zulu is Idube). The Kwagga or Quagga became extinct in 1878. The mountain zebra was almost extinct when, in 1913, there were just 27 animals left. The Mountain Zebra park was established in 1937 with 5 stallions and a mare. The park was originally 1700 hectares. In 1998 a series of paintings were auctioned on the TV program 50/50. This enabled the park to be rapidly expanded from 6500 hectares to its present size of 28 000 hectares as surrounding farms were bought up.
We started to hike at about 09.30 and walked along a jeep track. We were hardly about 1kay into the hike when Barbara tripped and fell on her knee. It was a hard fall with her full backpack weighing her down. From there on she was in pain. And to add to this she had a few more falls on the trail which resulted in her twisting her ankle as well. We hiked up the road to the Big Rock. This rock slid down the side of mountain in 1974 and the thunder of the slide could be heard 20kays away in Cradock.
We stopped here for a snack before tackling the first of the hills. As we climbed this hill we were able to see a small herd of three adult and one foal Mountain Zebra. We also saw some Kudu on the Western hillside. As was the case throughout this hike; the boys went on ahead. The rest of us regrouped at the neck and then began our descent. It was not long before we realised that we were lost. The boys were ahead of us and I was prepared to follow them. Fred had also gone on ahead and realised that he was not on the correct trail. There are so many game trails that it is easy to think that you are on the hiking trail, but if you do not see the trail markings of Feet or an Arrow, then you have lost the pathway.
Finally Fred put down his pack and walked back to the rock where we had lost the trail and put us back on track. It was a fairly steep descent on tough terrain before we reached a Jeep Track. At the bottom we crossed the only stream that we saw throughout the three days of the hike. The water was not drinkable except maybe in extreme case of need.
Here the uphill began to take it's toll on Barbara's knee. She was in a lot of trouble and I helped her up the hill. Barbara had discovered that the soles of her hiking boots were coming loose and this compounded her discomfort. As we ascended this hill I looked up to see Fred on his way down. At that stage I left Barbara's backpack and gratefully let Fred take over.
It was only about 500 meters to the start of the final descent to the Olien Hut. The wind was blowing and it became quite chilly. Fred had left his pack at the crossing and Hannes took over and carried it down to the Hut. This must have been a mammoth task as the descent was extremely tough and carrying a second bag would have made the descent almost impossible. Hannes had said he wanted to use the hike as a fitness exercise but this was taking it to the limit.
The descent was very long. About a kay. It was technically difficult. I began to tire and felt shaky with low blood sugar. For me this was probably the toughest part of the three days of hiking. I ate an enery bar and felt better but still felt myself tiring fast. Barbara, Ally and I reached the hut about 30 to 45 minutes after the rest of the group. Today's hike had taken us about 5.30 to 6 hours. We were all very happy to be at the hut. Soon after we arrived a bakkie with two rangers stopped to check that we were safe. Barbara explained that she was injured and would need a ride to the next hut. The driver agreed to be at the hut early the next morning.
Fred started the fire in the "donkey" to heat up the water for a shower. I needed the shower to recover and had a luke warm shower. From there everyone went one at a time and had a wonderful hot shower. We start the evening early with sundowners, snacks, chips, vegetables and dip. We had some bad luck as the steak that we had brought for the hike was "off" and not edible. But fortunately we did not go hungry as we had more than enough food on the hike.
We had bought Ally a new backpack and a new sleeping bag. She was quite comfortable with the backpack and slept well (as she always does) in her new down sleeping bag. The mattresses on this hike are covered with linen, while we are used to mattresses covered in a plastic. They were slightly softer and more comfortable that we expect in a hiking hut. The night was quite cold but not freezing. It rained in the night and Hannes took our provisions out of the fireplace as the rain was dripping on the plastic packets.
In the night Pat woke up worrying about the fire. It seems that she had seen flickering of the fire and realised that the wind was blowing and the fire had flared up and this was potentially dangerous as the fire could easily spread. Barbara and Pat got up to put the fire out. Just at this time I had a cramp attack in both legs and had to ask Barbara to give me a leg rub to ease the pain as I was unable to stretch the pain out of my legs. I find cramping quite exhausting and did not find the strength to help her and Pat put out the fire.
These huts consist of two bedrooms with six bunk beds in each room. The rooms are small but not unbearable. It just forces us to be a little tidier than we normally are on a hike. In the centre is a kitchen area with a fireplace which could be used if it was raining or the hut needed to be heated. Flush loos are provided and hot showers by means of the Donkey. A certain amount of cups, plates, cutlery, a kettle and parafin lamps (in the first hut only) are provided. A good fireplace for a braai and plenty of wood but what is lacking is an area to sit and chat. There are some logs but these are not placed around the fire and the setting is not condusive to a long evening of "Kuiering".
We were in bed early. I had started to read the book 'Fireproof' but I find that I can only read for a short while before my eyelids become so heavy that I cannot stay awake anymore. This night we must have been in bed for about 11 to 12 hours. It is impossible to sleep that long. I would wake up frequently and turn over or lay awake. My limbs were sore and stiff but the nights rest made me feel strong for the second day's hike.
Sunday 12th.
As Barbara had arranged to be collected, I decided that I was not going to carry a backpack. I carried a small packet with a waterproof top and a few snacks for the day plus two water bottles. Barbara and Ally were to wait for the Bakkie to collect them so we packed ready for them to be collected and Fred and I set off first. As we ascended we came across fresh droppings that looked like they were only hours old. We waited at the fork at the top of the ridge for the rest of the group to arrive. First up were the three boys who carried on up the pathway.
As they walked, Fred spotted a Zebra on the path that they would take. The Zebra heard them and was alert for some time before the boys spotted him. We watched as the boys approached and then as the Zebra began to descend the hill. The Zebra would run down for a short while and then stop in a place that completely camouflaged himself. He would silhouette himself agains a bush or tree that had the effect of making him invisible. It was quite interseting for Fred and myself to watch this from a distance.
The first part of the hike took us to the fork and then up along a jeep track. At the top we regrouped and I was able to help Gerald who was battling with his breathing in the thin air. At this stage I estimate that we were about 1500m above sea level. From here we could see the boys across the valley as they had already reached the Bankenberg. This is a Buttress that looks like a bench. They were running around, playing and generally enjoying themselves. As we stood here we could see the mist coming across the mountain tops and could feel the immediate drop in temperature. Fortunately we had brought warm clothing.
Fred had to be back in PE this evening as he had an important job to complete on Monday. He had arranged to be collected from the hut at about 15.30 and decided that he would be better off to press on ahead. The five of us consisted of Hannes and Jacqui, Gerald and Pat and myself. We continued down hill and then up to the Bankberg. At the top we could hear Ally shouting below. We could see the hut but not Ally or Barbara. We did not know what Ally was saying but realised that the Bakkie that was supposed to have fetched them had not turned up. When we later walked to the hut I felt quite upset to see that Ally had scratched the word "help" in the sand next to the hut.
There was nothing that we could do. Barbara had my phone and I could not phone anyone to let them know. Also we thought that they would surely be there at any time shortly. We pressed on and up to just below the highest point in the park know as the Bankenberg. At this point we were just under 2000 meters above sea level. This is a point that is clearly visible from far distances. The range of mountain is known as the Sneuberg. It appears that there had been snow there on the weekend that we were originally planned to be on this hike.
At the top we stopped alongside the old stone wall for a snack. The whole day had been one of clear sky and then cloud cover. The wind was blowing but it was not so cold that we were in distress. Now as we sat down sheltered from the wind, the sun shone on us and we felt as if this was where we should spend the rest of our lives. The warmth, tranquility and feeling of well being was overwhelming. We could see for probably 100kays in all directions.
Finally we decided to get going again. Shortly after we left this spot we had to search for the trail. Thus began a series of lost and found. From here we determined that if we did not see the trail marking of Feet or Arrows then we would stop, backtrack and reorientate ourselves. The trail is well marked but easily lost. There are so many game tracks that can be confused as hiking trails that the hiker has to be extremely careful otherwise you could find yourself on a completely wrong pathway alltogether.
We began a long descent. It was about here that I heard Jacqui telling the story of how Hannes had presented her with this amazing birthday present: a pair of Gaiters. "What are these?" she had demanded of Hannes. "Gaiters that you can use on the hike" answered a proud Hannes. Jacqui announced that she was going to buy Hannes a Sports Bra for his next birthday as it was now him that was wearing these Gaiters! I was reminded of the one and only time that I had tried to purchase Barbara an item of clothing but had "chickened out" when I was approached by a sales lady. Jacqui's advice: 'Phone a friend'.
The descent into the valley was long and technically challenging. This cannot be rushed as it would be very easy to trip and fall or to twist an ankle. There are a number of huge round rocks that we had to walk along, trusting our boots to not slip. During the descent we saw a herd of 6 Zebra across the valley. They remain motionless even at that distance. They are not "skittish" but careful and ready to move if neccessary.
Finally we reached the saddle where we had a short ascent before the final 500m to the hut. Here we discovered that the boys were lighting the fire for the Donkey but no Barbara and Ally. The boys explained that they had arrived about 40 minutes ago and that Fred had been there when they arrived. He had walked out and would be on his way to the Rest Camp.
Hannes and I grabbed a water bottle (and not warm top as it was sunny a the time) and started the walk along the road back to the hut where Barbara and Ally would be waiting. Along the road it was an easy walk and took us about 45 minutes. Just as we approached the hut we could hear Baboons barking. At the hut Barbara told us that they had just brought all the bags and kit into the hut as the Baboons had approached them and sounded very threatening. And not five minutes later the Ranger Tom arrived in the Bakkie to fetch them. We loaded everything into the bakkie and drove back to the Karee Hut where the rest of the group were waiting.
Back at the Karee Hut we settled in for the evening. It was only about 4pm. We all enjoyed a warm shower and started the fire. Out came the sundowners and snacks. It was a little before sundown but in the words of Bill Corkhill: "On the hike there is latitude when it comes to deciding when sundowners may begin". The Donkey was fired up and everyone was able to enjoy a hot shower. Cleaned, tired but refreshed is how we now felt. Now that we were all together we were able to reflect on the day's hike.
The day had been one of the best possible day's for hiking this trail. In Summer you would cook. The weather had been very kind to us. There was a little cloud cover but not so much as to chill us to the bone. The warm rays of sun had been just enough to warm us up but not so much that we had battled with heat. In the final descent the breeze had dropped and we had excellent hiking conditions all round. This was a reasonably tough day but for me was really enjoyable with a light pack and I was feeling fit and strong. At no time did my knees bother me. Hannes had brought some sweets and I used these to 'refuel'. I must remember to takes sweets when ever I am on a hike.
The warmth of the fire, the day's hiking and early evening sundowners combined to put me into a relaxed frame of mind. This evening I was first in bed and reading my book. But as usual the book had a soothing effect and I was soon fast asleep. While I did not have a troubled sleep, I did have a fitful sleep, waking and turning often to ease an ache or stiffness.
When I went outside in the middle of the night, the moon shining so brightly it seemed like dawn. A bright moon like that seems to reflect on the soil. The stars were in full presentation and had it not been so cold it would have been an ideal opportunity for an outdoors sleep.
Monday morning I decided to make some hot chocolate and tried to be as quiet as possible but my movements soon woke the rest of the group (except Ally who has been known to sleep through an Atom Bomb). We prepared our morning drinks and eats, washed and packed ready for 08.00am when Tom the Ranger was due to collect us. And at exactly 08.00am we saw the Bakkie round the corner. It was Goodman, not Tom but that did not matter. Some of us loaded our packs onto the Bakkie, Barbara and Ally jumped on and we all set off for our final walk out.
Barbara and Ally froze on the back. There was nothing that they could do. The short trip seemed to take forever. But Finally they were back at camp where they had a wash and a proper breakfast of eggs and bacon and went for a short game drive.
Meanwhile we walked along the path, losing the trail constantly and regrouping once we found it again. It is not as though you can lose yourself alltogether. The road is always just to the left of the hiker. But it is good to know that you are on the correct hiking trail. We startled a number of buck including Kudu and Fallow Deer or bushbuck.
This morning's walk took us just over 2 hours and we were back in camp with Barbara and Ally waiting for us. Stuart and Calvyn had worn sleevless vests and must ahve been freezing cold in the morning before the sun came out to warm us up. Hannes took his group for a shower. Ally had to be back in PE as early as possible for Drama Practice and we left immediately.
As we drove out, we again spotted a variety of game, including a Black Backed Jackal as he loped alongside the road. At the main gate we saw a pair of secretary birds walking and hunting for snakes and rodents in the long grass. The drive home was a sleepy affair. I drove for a while and then let Barbara take over while I slept. Ally slept for most of the drive and was still half asleep when we dropped her off at Clarendon for Drama Practice.
That evening Fred phoned to let me know how it had gone for him. He had left us at the top of the Bankberg Butress and had walked at a brisk pace. He too had become "lost" on a number of occasions having to backtrack to find the trail. He had waited at the hut for the boys to make sure that they had found their way and then had walked out along the road. Just as he approached the Rest Camp, the bakkie met him and gave him a lift for the final Kay. He then tried to explain to Jali about the arrangement to collect Barbara and Ally. Jali was not aware of the arrangement but promptly sent the bakkie off to collect them and that is how it came about that we met them at the Olien Hut on Sunday evening.
Lessons that I learned on this hike:
While winter may not be ideal for hiking, it is certainly better than the heat of summer.
Water (one litre in winter is the minimum and two in summer) has to be carried as there is absolutely no water on the trail.
Slackpacking is possible on this hike. The rangers are most helpful and accommodating.
Stay in groups as the trail is confusing and one can become lost easily. Always look for the painted feet and arrows. If you lose sight for any time at all then you are probably off the trail.
The hike is physically demanding but if taken slowly with plenty of stops and rest breaks it is not too difficult.
The distances do not seem to be long but the nature of the trail and the terrain makes it a tough hike.
Take it slow: you can spot game while hiking, but not if you are walking to beat a time demand.
Weather descends upon you at the top of the mountain. Be prepared for the very coldest and wettest even when you start off in clear skies.
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Dawn commented as follows:
"Remember Mountain Zebra well, did it twice, both times, I think, with you guys. Remember Jacqui, head down on a hill, almost walking into a kudu and Michael in an uncontrolled down hill sprint with Jacqui on his back. Also Peter in pain on the hill tops - what was it again? Kidney stone? or something! Never been an uneventful hike and it sounds as if this one remained true to the tradition!"
Michael commented as follows:
Dad.
Sounds like you really had an adventure. I completely understand how those leg cramps can wear you out.
I also believe that if mom is going to do hiking from a bakkie - I might be quite interested to join next time.
Mike
Hi Peter
How was the Mountain zebra trail? My heart ached more than the fractured arm… Some pic’s? Haven’t blogged before ! Have done the Otter 2 years ago & would love to do it again. Planning to do the Camino De Santiago next year June- July for 14 days & not sure of dates yet, but will have to finalise asap. Wouldn’t like to loose out again.
Stay well & blessed
Maryna
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IMPOFU HIKING TRAIL
SATURDAY 11 JULY TO MONDAY 13TH JULY 2009.
On this hike:
Peter, Barbara and Ally (11) Giddy
Hannes, Jacqui, Calvyn (16)and Jordan (14) Zeelie
Stuart Laing (16)
Gerald and Pat Scheepers
Fred Kohler.
The hike had been planned for some time to start on Saturday 27th as this was the first day after school term ended. However the Zeelies were not able to make this weekend due to paddling committments in Plett and this is how it came about that we changed the dates. It was just as well as the original weekend was one of the coldest and wettest weekends that we have had in ages.
Maryna Baard (Susan Burri's friend) was due to hike with us. On the Thursday before the hike a couple of us (Maryna, Susan, Gerald, Adrienne and I) were running through Hallack Drive in the early morning and Maryna tripped and fell. She went down hard and fractured a bone in her arm and was unable to be with us.
Adrienne was leaving later this afternoon for Rome where she would be judging international diving. Her two children, Danielle and Matthew would be traveling to England where they would meet up with elder sister, Jennifer who is a Springbok Hockey player. Jennifer has paid for them to fly over. After the Diving they are all meeting to go hiking in the Alps and this is why Adrienne has been dedicated to her running in recent weeks.
The people administering the hike and the people at reception were most obliging and helpful. Jeannie helped me when we had to change dates, Robin phoned to make certain that the arrangements were correct, Jali assisted us at the reception and there was the man who gave us a talk about the hike and safety aspects. They were all incredibly friendly and helpful.
This would be the third time that Barbara and I would do this hike. The first time we completed the hike and it must have been around summer as the days were very hot and long. We did it with our children when they were still young and at school. The second attempt we completed the first day and then on the second day we climbed the first hill before I realised that I had a Kidney Stone and was in agony. I decided to turn back and the rest of the group did the same. So our second day was a really relaxed day as we hiked along the road to the second hut.
Stuart had not hiked a trail of this nature before. He remembered us from Rhodes where his dad, Andrew, had run the Rhodes marathon with us and we had all stayed at "Die Pastorie". Ally also remembered Stuart. They had played ping pong together. This was July 2005 when Andrew had received his permanent number at Rhodes. Andrew was up at Rhodes while we were on the hike. See Blog of July 2005: Rhodes Marathon.
Ally and her friends had been at the Walmer Methodist Holiday Club the whole week. Calvyn, Jordan and Stuart had been leaders at the Holiday club. From reports, this had been a most successful week of fun and teaching. Amber was not able to come on this hike as she had Ballet Classes which cannot be missed. She kindly wrote Ally a letter, telling her how much she wished that she could have been there.
Hannes and family left on Friday night and stayed over at his sister who lives in Cradock. Gerald left about a half hour before us. Fred followed me and we left at about 5.45am on Saturday morning. We filled up with petrol at Colchester. I had set my GPS and the distance from our house to the main gate of the Park was 255kays. We took a gentle drive averaging around 100kph. It was extremely relaxing. We stopped to look at some Buck that we saw about 50kays this side of Cradock. They looked like Impala but were darker (almost Black) with a white flash on the bridge of the nose. They are not listed in our game guide.
Our next stop was at the Daggaboer Farm stall. Fred purchased a pair of Mohair Boot socks. Barbara bought herself some biltong and a filter coffee. The drive to the main gate of the Park took us about 3 hours. As we drove the 12kays to the Camp area we saw Oribi, Zebra, Springbok, Eland and Kudu. This park has more than it's full of game to see.
At the main camp we met up with the rest of the group and registered for the hike. We were given a fairly comprehensive talk on safety as we were in the open where it is entirely possible to encounter wild animals including buffalo and Rhinosourus. Hannes later commented that the talk had been devised at some head office as they advised climbing a tree or running uphill. With a loaded backpack? Up Doring Boom? Yeah Right! Another interesting fact is that, as we were readying ourselves, Andy and Bev Bolton (with daughter and friend) drove into camp. They planned to spend the weekend doing some game viewing.
Impofu is the Xhosa name for Eland. The Xhosa word used for Zebra is Ikwagga (Zulu is Idube). The Kwagga or Quagga became extinct in 1878. The mountain zebra was almost extinct when, in 1913, there were just 27 animals left. The Mountain Zebra park was established in 1937 with 5 stallions and a mare. The park was originally 1700 hectares. In 1998 a series of paintings were auctioned on the TV program 50/50. This enabled the park to be rapidly expanded from 6500 hectares to its present size of 28 000 hectares as surrounding farms were bought up.
We started to hike at about 09.30 and walked along a jeep track. We were hardly about 1kay into the hike when Barbara tripped and fell on her knee. It was a hard fall with her full backpack weighing her down. From there on she was in pain. And to add to this she had a few more falls on the trail which resulted in her twisting her ankle as well. We hiked up the road to the Big Rock. This rock slid down the side of mountain in 1974 and the thunder of the slide could be heard 20kays away in Cradock.
We stopped here for a snack before tackling the first of the hills. As we climbed this hill we were able to see a small herd of three adult and one foal Mountain Zebra. We also saw some Kudu on the Western hillside. As was the case throughout this hike; the boys went on ahead. The rest of us regrouped at the neck and then began our descent. It was not long before we realised that we were lost. The boys were ahead of us and I was prepared to follow them. Fred had also gone on ahead and realised that he was not on the correct trail. There are so many game trails that it is easy to think that you are on the hiking trail, but if you do not see the trail markings of Feet or an Arrow, then you have lost the pathway.
Finally Fred put down his pack and walked back to the rock where we had lost the trail and put us back on track. It was a fairly steep descent on tough terrain before we reached a Jeep Track. At the bottom we crossed the only stream that we saw throughout the three days of the hike. The water was not drinkable except maybe in extreme case of need.
Here the uphill began to take it's toll on Barbara's knee. She was in a lot of trouble and I helped her up the hill. Barbara had discovered that the soles of her hiking boots were coming loose and this compounded her discomfort. As we ascended this hill I looked up to see Fred on his way down. At that stage I left Barbara's backpack and gratefully let Fred take over.
It was only about 500 meters to the start of the final descent to the Olien Hut. The wind was blowing and it became quite chilly. Fred had left his pack at the crossing and Hannes took over and carried it down to the Hut. This must have been a mammoth task as the descent was extremely tough and carrying a second bag would have made the descent almost impossible. Hannes had said he wanted to use the hike as a fitness exercise but this was taking it to the limit.
The descent was very long. About a kay. It was technically difficult. I began to tire and felt shaky with low blood sugar. For me this was probably the toughest part of the three days of hiking. I ate an enery bar and felt better but still felt myself tiring fast. Barbara, Ally and I reached the hut about 30 to 45 minutes after the rest of the group. Today's hike had taken us about 5.30 to 6 hours. We were all very happy to be at the hut. Soon after we arrived a bakkie with two rangers stopped to check that we were safe. Barbara explained that she was injured and would need a ride to the next hut. The driver agreed to be at the hut early the next morning.
Fred started the fire in the "donkey" to heat up the water for a shower. I needed the shower to recover and had a luke warm shower. From there everyone went one at a time and had a wonderful hot shower. We start the evening early with sundowners, snacks, chips, vegetables and dip. We had some bad luck as the steak that we had brought for the hike was "off" and not edible. But fortunately we did not go hungry as we had more than enough food on the hike.
We had bought Ally a new backpack and a new sleeping bag. She was quite comfortable with the backpack and slept well (as she always does) in her new down sleeping bag. The mattresses on this hike are covered with linen, while we are used to mattresses covered in a plastic. They were slightly softer and more comfortable that we expect in a hiking hut. The night was quite cold but not freezing. It rained in the night and Hannes took our provisions out of the fireplace as the rain was dripping on the plastic packets.
In the night Pat woke up worrying about the fire. It seems that she had seen flickering of the fire and realised that the wind was blowing and the fire had flared up and this was potentially dangerous as the fire could easily spread. Barbara and Pat got up to put the fire out. Just at this time I had a cramp attack in both legs and had to ask Barbara to give me a leg rub to ease the pain as I was unable to stretch the pain out of my legs. I find cramping quite exhausting and did not find the strength to help her and Pat put out the fire.
These huts consist of two bedrooms with six bunk beds in each room. The rooms are small but not unbearable. It just forces us to be a little tidier than we normally are on a hike. In the centre is a kitchen area with a fireplace which could be used if it was raining or the hut needed to be heated. Flush loos are provided and hot showers by means of the Donkey. A certain amount of cups, plates, cutlery, a kettle and parafin lamps (in the first hut only) are provided. A good fireplace for a braai and plenty of wood but what is lacking is an area to sit and chat. There are some logs but these are not placed around the fire and the setting is not condusive to a long evening of "Kuiering".
We were in bed early. I had started to read the book 'Fireproof' but I find that I can only read for a short while before my eyelids become so heavy that I cannot stay awake anymore. This night we must have been in bed for about 11 to 12 hours. It is impossible to sleep that long. I would wake up frequently and turn over or lay awake. My limbs were sore and stiff but the nights rest made me feel strong for the second day's hike.
Sunday 12th.
As Barbara had arranged to be collected, I decided that I was not going to carry a backpack. I carried a small packet with a waterproof top and a few snacks for the day plus two water bottles. Barbara and Ally were to wait for the Bakkie to collect them so we packed ready for them to be collected and Fred and I set off first. As we ascended we came across fresh droppings that looked like they were only hours old. We waited at the fork at the top of the ridge for the rest of the group to arrive. First up were the three boys who carried on up the pathway.
As they walked, Fred spotted a Zebra on the path that they would take. The Zebra heard them and was alert for some time before the boys spotted him. We watched as the boys approached and then as the Zebra began to descend the hill. The Zebra would run down for a short while and then stop in a place that completely camouflaged himself. He would silhouette himself agains a bush or tree that had the effect of making him invisible. It was quite interseting for Fred and myself to watch this from a distance.
The first part of the hike took us to the fork and then up along a jeep track. At the top we regrouped and I was able to help Gerald who was battling with his breathing in the thin air. At this stage I estimate that we were about 1500m above sea level. From here we could see the boys across the valley as they had already reached the Bankenberg. This is a Buttress that looks like a bench. They were running around, playing and generally enjoying themselves. As we stood here we could see the mist coming across the mountain tops and could feel the immediate drop in temperature. Fortunately we had brought warm clothing.
Fred had to be back in PE this evening as he had an important job to complete on Monday. He had arranged to be collected from the hut at about 15.30 and decided that he would be better off to press on ahead. The five of us consisted of Hannes and Jacqui, Gerald and Pat and myself. We continued down hill and then up to the Bankberg. At the top we could hear Ally shouting below. We could see the hut but not Ally or Barbara. We did not know what Ally was saying but realised that the Bakkie that was supposed to have fetched them had not turned up. When we later walked to the hut I felt quite upset to see that Ally had scratched the word "help" in the sand next to the hut.
There was nothing that we could do. Barbara had my phone and I could not phone anyone to let them know. Also we thought that they would surely be there at any time shortly. We pressed on and up to just below the highest point in the park know as the Bankenberg. At this point we were just under 2000 meters above sea level. This is a point that is clearly visible from far distances. The range of mountain is known as the Sneuberg. It appears that there had been snow there on the weekend that we were originally planned to be on this hike.
At the top we stopped alongside the old stone wall for a snack. The whole day had been one of clear sky and then cloud cover. The wind was blowing but it was not so cold that we were in distress. Now as we sat down sheltered from the wind, the sun shone on us and we felt as if this was where we should spend the rest of our lives. The warmth, tranquility and feeling of well being was overwhelming. We could see for probably 100kays in all directions.
Finally we decided to get going again. Shortly after we left this spot we had to search for the trail. Thus began a series of lost and found. From here we determined that if we did not see the trail marking of Feet or Arrows then we would stop, backtrack and reorientate ourselves. The trail is well marked but easily lost. There are so many game tracks that can be confused as hiking trails that the hiker has to be extremely careful otherwise you could find yourself on a completely wrong pathway alltogether.
We began a long descent. It was about here that I heard Jacqui telling the story of how Hannes had presented her with this amazing birthday present: a pair of Gaiters. "What are these?" she had demanded of Hannes. "Gaiters that you can use on the hike" answered a proud Hannes. Jacqui announced that she was going to buy Hannes a Sports Bra for his next birthday as it was now him that was wearing these Gaiters! I was reminded of the one and only time that I had tried to purchase Barbara an item of clothing but had "chickened out" when I was approached by a sales lady. Jacqui's advice: 'Phone a friend'.
The descent into the valley was long and technically challenging. This cannot be rushed as it would be very easy to trip and fall or to twist an ankle. There are a number of huge round rocks that we had to walk along, trusting our boots to not slip. During the descent we saw a herd of 6 Zebra across the valley. They remain motionless even at that distance. They are not "skittish" but careful and ready to move if neccessary.
Finally we reached the saddle where we had a short ascent before the final 500m to the hut. Here we discovered that the boys were lighting the fire for the Donkey but no Barbara and Ally. The boys explained that they had arrived about 40 minutes ago and that Fred had been there when they arrived. He had walked out and would be on his way to the Rest Camp.
Hannes and I grabbed a water bottle (and not warm top as it was sunny a the time) and started the walk along the road back to the hut where Barbara and Ally would be waiting. Along the road it was an easy walk and took us about 45 minutes. Just as we approached the hut we could hear Baboons barking. At the hut Barbara told us that they had just brought all the bags and kit into the hut as the Baboons had approached them and sounded very threatening. And not five minutes later the Ranger Tom arrived in the Bakkie to fetch them. We loaded everything into the bakkie and drove back to the Karee Hut where the rest of the group were waiting.
Back at the Karee Hut we settled in for the evening. It was only about 4pm. We all enjoyed a warm shower and started the fire. Out came the sundowners and snacks. It was a little before sundown but in the words of Bill Corkhill: "On the hike there is latitude when it comes to deciding when sundowners may begin". The Donkey was fired up and everyone was able to enjoy a hot shower. Cleaned, tired but refreshed is how we now felt. Now that we were all together we were able to reflect on the day's hike.
The day had been one of the best possible day's for hiking this trail. In Summer you would cook. The weather had been very kind to us. There was a little cloud cover but not so much as to chill us to the bone. The warm rays of sun had been just enough to warm us up but not so much that we had battled with heat. In the final descent the breeze had dropped and we had excellent hiking conditions all round. This was a reasonably tough day but for me was really enjoyable with a light pack and I was feeling fit and strong. At no time did my knees bother me. Hannes had brought some sweets and I used these to 'refuel'. I must remember to takes sweets when ever I am on a hike.
The warmth of the fire, the day's hiking and early evening sundowners combined to put me into a relaxed frame of mind. This evening I was first in bed and reading my book. But as usual the book had a soothing effect and I was soon fast asleep. While I did not have a troubled sleep, I did have a fitful sleep, waking and turning often to ease an ache or stiffness.
When I went outside in the middle of the night, the moon shining so brightly it seemed like dawn. A bright moon like that seems to reflect on the soil. The stars were in full presentation and had it not been so cold it would have been an ideal opportunity for an outdoors sleep.
Monday morning I decided to make some hot chocolate and tried to be as quiet as possible but my movements soon woke the rest of the group (except Ally who has been known to sleep through an Atom Bomb). We prepared our morning drinks and eats, washed and packed ready for 08.00am when Tom the Ranger was due to collect us. And at exactly 08.00am we saw the Bakkie round the corner. It was Goodman, not Tom but that did not matter. Some of us loaded our packs onto the Bakkie, Barbara and Ally jumped on and we all set off for our final walk out.
Barbara and Ally froze on the back. There was nothing that they could do. The short trip seemed to take forever. But Finally they were back at camp where they had a wash and a proper breakfast of eggs and bacon and went for a short game drive.
Meanwhile we walked along the path, losing the trail constantly and regrouping once we found it again. It is not as though you can lose yourself alltogether. The road is always just to the left of the hiker. But it is good to know that you are on the correct hiking trail. We startled a number of buck including Kudu and Fallow Deer or bushbuck.
This morning's walk took us just over 2 hours and we were back in camp with Barbara and Ally waiting for us. Stuart and Calvyn had worn sleevless vests and must ahve been freezing cold in the morning before the sun came out to warm us up. Hannes took his group for a shower. Ally had to be back in PE as early as possible for Drama Practice and we left immediately.
As we drove out, we again spotted a variety of game, including a Black Backed Jackal as he loped alongside the road. At the main gate we saw a pair of secretary birds walking and hunting for snakes and rodents in the long grass. The drive home was a sleepy affair. I drove for a while and then let Barbara take over while I slept. Ally slept for most of the drive and was still half asleep when we dropped her off at Clarendon for Drama Practice.
That evening Fred phoned to let me know how it had gone for him. He had left us at the top of the Bankberg Butress and had walked at a brisk pace. He too had become "lost" on a number of occasions having to backtrack to find the trail. He had waited at the hut for the boys to make sure that they had found their way and then had walked out along the road. Just as he approached the Rest Camp, the bakkie met him and gave him a lift for the final Kay. He then tried to explain to Jali about the arrangement to collect Barbara and Ally. Jali was not aware of the arrangement but promptly sent the bakkie off to collect them and that is how it came about that we met them at the Olien Hut on Sunday evening.
Lessons that I learned on this hike:
While winter may not be ideal for hiking, it is certainly better than the heat of summer.
Water (one litre in winter is the minimum and two in summer) has to be carried as there is absolutely no water on the trail.
Slackpacking is possible on this hike. The rangers are most helpful and accommodating.
Stay in groups as the trail is confusing and one can become lost easily. Always look for the painted feet and arrows. If you lose sight for any time at all then you are probably off the trail.
The hike is physically demanding but if taken slowly with plenty of stops and rest breaks it is not too difficult.
The distances do not seem to be long but the nature of the trail and the terrain makes it a tough hike.
Take it slow: you can spot game while hiking, but not if you are walking to beat a time demand.
Weather descends upon you at the top of the mountain. Be prepared for the very coldest and wettest even when you start off in clear skies.
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Dawn commented as follows:
"Remember Mountain Zebra well, did it twice, both times, I think, with you guys. Remember Jacqui, head down on a hill, almost walking into a kudu and Michael in an uncontrolled down hill sprint with Jacqui on his back. Also Peter in pain on the hill tops - what was it again? Kidney stone? or something! Never been an uneventful hike and it sounds as if this one remained true to the tradition!"
Michael commented as follows:
Dad.
Sounds like you really had an adventure. I completely understand how those leg cramps can wear you out.
I also believe that if mom is going to do hiking from a bakkie - I might be quite interested to join next time.
Mike
Hi Peter
How was the Mountain zebra trail? My heart ached more than the fractured arm… Some pic’s? Haven’t blogged before ! Have done the Otter 2 years ago & would love to do it again. Planning to do the Camino De Santiago next year June- July for 14 days & not sure of dates yet, but will have to finalise asap. Wouldn’t like to loose out again.
Stay well & blessed
Maryna
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