This was my first Karoo to Coast and I can vouch for all that was said, save that they now appear to have sorted the cross referencing with your name and race number. I did the Trans Baviaans 5 weeks earlier and very little training since. Mistake! Do not underestimate any MTB in SA and especially not this one. Lots of climbs, although never particularly steep, but they keep coming. Oh yes, the old wagon trail had been graded not too long ago it seems. Lots of loose gravel, but the surface is fair. The rest of the route is very good gravel road, no water crossings and lovely surroundings, if you can manage to appreciate the scenery. I'll be back next year, prepared this time!
