The experienced pair of Warren Price and Trevor Rowe are eagerly counting down the days to the start of the 2016 BSi Steel dusi2c that takes place from Camps Drift in Pietermaritzburg to Durban’s Blue Lagoon on 11 and 12 June, as they go in search of a much sought-after top three finish.
The Safire pair, who finished tie third in 2014 and fourth last year, have been racing as a combination for many years and are hoping this year’s dice through the Valley of a Thousand Hills will be another successful one for them.
Safire’s Warren Price (front) and Trevor Rowe (background) are hoping a clean two days in the saddle will see them battling it out for a podium position when they take on the 2016 BSi Steel dusi2c on 11 & 12 June. Anthony Grote/ Gameplan Media
“I’m now a Vet and next year Trev (Rowe) will be too so, with four kids between us, we’re the old ballies of the field!” chuckles Price.
“We’re definitely still hoping to mix it up with the youngsters again this year though and we’re really looking forward to this year’s dusi2c!
“Hopefully we don’t get lost or have any punctures and just have a good, clean two days in the saddle and, ideally, can finish on the box,” adds the 40 year-old competitor.
On the back of a successful KAP sani2c campaign, the Pietermaritzburg pair bring good momentum with them into the clash and will look to use Sunday, 5 June’s 60km Sappi Karkloof Marathon as one last tune up.
“We’ve had a little bit of bad luck on either day in both of our previous dusi2c efforts together but we went nicely at sani2c recently, finishing thirteenth overall there, and hopefully next weekend’s Karkloof will be another good bit of preparation before we head into the Valley!”
While the duo draws confidence from their form and fitness, they are also well aware of the abilities and sound groundwork put in by of some of their fellow podium challengers.
“Andrew Hill will be there again this year, with Tyronne White, so we’ll look to hang onto their wheel for as long as we possibly can,” says Price.
“The Change a Life Zulus, who live in the Valley, will also definitely be a strong force again this year, especially as they enjoy a distinct advantage knowing the trails as well as they do.
“Racing at the front of the race, you’re on the pin the whole time so sometimes it can be quite tricky trying to navigate where you’re going via GPS, making sure you’re following the right route without not getting lost – as we’ve done in the past.
“If you do your homework – which the Zulus most certainly will have done – then you’ll do well though.”
While finding themselves amidst the racing snakes of the field means Price and Rowe don’t often get to take in all the spectacular sights and sounds of their unique surroundings, the event and its terrain is something the former holds very close to his heart.
“Being an ex-Dusi paddler of nineteen Dusis, I just love the feel that comes with being in the Valley!” explains Price.
“There is also a lot of history that goes with the Dusi and so it is great to now be able to enjoy another slice of that from a mountain bike as well.
“It is definitely a lot tougher paddling through the valley than it is cycling but I still just love being on all the footpaths and cattle paths and in the thick of the bush – something I’m really looking forward to enjoying again at this year’s dusi2c!”
For more information visit www.dusi2c.co.za.
