At the last minute, My friend, Jan and I decided to apply as volunteers on the Epic...... not giving it much hope, continued on with life, and got the long awaited mail... we were accepted. Our role was in the 'bike park'. We left for Knysna and our 'work-shop' a little concerned of what this role would warrant...... well that is now history. What a wonderful experience. Were the first two females to be on bike park squad.... and what a blast. Day went thus. Arrive at venue, unpack 8 ton truck, (5 other guys to help), assemble racks for 1200 bikes to park, park bikes for riders/assistants who would like them parked.... this grew and grew each day, the more buggered they were !!!!!!.... Shifts were sorted amongst ourselves, so we had a gas, riding our Mtb's in the area, going into each town, and having a 'working holiday'. Next morning, Up at 4.30 for breakfast...( 5am to bike park) assist where necessary with each riders bike, (only the rider may leave with his bike, due to security reasons) but system was brillant, and in numerical order. Stage begins and we dismantle all the racks, load the truck, load the abandoned bikes, tidy bike park, and leave for next venue, where same procedure takes place.... Not a moments trouble between the team... GREAT TEAM BIKE PARK.... Met a few Hubbers.... but met so many wonderful people. To those Hubbers that were riding, and we did not know each other, well done on a great ride. There is one conclusion that I have come to... and PLEASE I do not want to start a thread of abuse...... Mountain bike events rock.... riders are so much more friendly than road cyclists, There are no Officials strutting their stuff, and quite honestly, I am still not sure who the officials were, as they are never identified. You guys and gals were so friendly, shared jokes, and were most polite and never once failed to say a genuine thank you. So, to end this long thread.... My thanks to each and every Epic rider, who made my 10 day holiday such a success, and worth all the HARD work us ladies had to put in. Give it some thought and volunteer next year, if you want a lifetime memory. Buff, thanks so much for your assistance when my car broke down.... and sorry you never made it for the pizza in Hermanus (Maybe I will be the one bringing MY bike to the park in 2009 ................ xxxxx