flymango

Battery or solar?

Could it be that ... it was actually a case of attempted robbery? I put it to you that ... those cyclists were actually very thirsty and were trying to get to the water sachets in the back of the van. Thank you My Lady Lord.

Carrol Boyes wine stand was interesting ... Wonder why they don't move to CTCC? Show case event in a show case city with registration at a less than show case venue.

As one of the more loyal and passionate Cheetahs supporters out there, I certainly didn't see a problem with the ref. We were simply outplayed at every facet of the game.

Without fail, I get agitated with a motorist every time I go out for a ride. It's as if I don't exist, or because their actions will lead to an incident that could kill me or injure a friend or fellow cyclist. But I will always come second, even when I'm right. Unfortunately flesh and bones are more difficult to repair than vehicle dents and paint scratches. That's why I always signal when I'm turning, acknowledge or thank a motorist for doing something correct even if I didn't need to, and try my best to be road obedient. (Note: I did say try - I'm no saint). But one thing's for sure, nothing - and I mean nothing - can justify the violent mob behavior by that group of cyclists. Seriously, pepper-spraying the guy while he's inside a stationary vehicle? Motorists 1 step forward. Cyclists 10 steps backwards.

Road rage and vigilante cyclists on the road. Bike-jackings, thefts and attempted rapes off the road. I think I'm going back to a regime of gym and golf.

I think the Cheetahs are still trying to find the stadium. They certainly never pitched up.

I miss GrumpOldGuy's contributions.

Sorry to hear about your experience Desi. A few years ago I was doing a MTB event in the Wellington area. I'm very much a "back of the pack" cyclist, and remember passing a lady cyclist just before a longish farm road climb. Near the top of the climb, I remember encountering three young teenage males (+- 13/16 years old) who aggressively asked for "sweeties" and tried to grab my Camelbak. I told them in Afrikaans that I was diabetic ("suikersiekte") and needed my sugar otherwise I might die. I'm guessing but the exaggeration must have confused them so they left me alone. Slightly shaken I went over the crest of the climb only to remember the lady behind me. I turned back only to see the same three youths harassing the lady cyclist. The speed at which I was approaching down the hill and my shouting startled them and they ran for cover into nearby fields. The lady was really shaken and we rode together for a few kilometres before parting ways.

In what area do you live and where were you cycling from? Lost? Safe? Religion? Self-justification? Me thinks not.

And the Aussies and NZ teams seem to be contesting for turnover at the breakdown. Admittedly it's high risk and reward, but from what I've seen the past two weeks, they're happy to contest.

A big thumbs up for confessing. I big thumbs down for your actions. No matter your circumstance, other than a real life threatening situation, I wouldn't recommend cycling into traffic. Unfortunately it reflects on the rest of us as a collective.

Wishing the injured cyclist a full and speedy recovery. Never nice to hear stories like this. A (lady) friend of mine came short at that little section just in front of me a few years back. A combination of over-inflated tyres, speed, sand and marbles, can spring a few nasty surprises in no time.

Indeed. Although in the Lion's camp there's also an irony in that Boshoff is playing only because Jantjies is injured. Will be interesting to see what happens once he passes a fitness test.

Yes, interesting. I must confess, watching my beloved Cheetahs over the weekend, I was again struck by how few supporters actually pitch up at the Free State Stadium (despite the rain). Compare that to 40,000 supporters at Ellis Park. And think of the support in PE last year for the Kings. It must put the Free State Union on a very thin foundation if they start losing.

Seems modern rugby is about flyhalves and cheque books ....

And I'm afraid Schalk is passed his sell by date. And Marnitz Boshoff was a freak.

Fully agree G. Why, but why use that narrow piece of road in peak-hour with a perfectly good cycle lane less than 10 meters across the road? Reminds me of the 3 cyclists riding abreast on Saturday from Melkbos to Table View with a lead-car in front and support car at the rear with hazards flashing while said three cyclists were cruising along at no more than 20 km/h, with a vehicle tailback of at least 10 vehicles. Tour de Melkbos? Not good for cyclist and motorist relationships.

Better make that a few iced coffees instead.

Giving it a miss? No way. Got my best seeding to date - Z. 07:24. And an odds-on bet with a mate in the same batch. He wins = Johnnie Black. I win = Johnnie Blue. Any disgruntled A-batch riders out there wanting to be domestique for me?

Cassie - eina!! Do you mean where the trees narrowed on the downhill next to the stream just before the bridge on the little incline? That incline was a little killer for me.

I wish more people could read this thread to comprehend the scale of achievement. Actually, I salute all riders who did anything above 12 laps, never mind 33 laps!!

Forgot to add: Highlight was the swim in the dam at the top of the loop during the last lap.

Here's my race report. Braais: 2 Beers: 4 Hours slept: 8 Total Laps: 6 (nothing like a short camping weekend with a bit of MTB in between) Night Laps: 1 HUGE respect to men's winner and ladies' winners. Pieter Erwee did 33 laps and Tracey Lentin did 21 laps. That's roughly 390 km and 6,270 m ascent, and 248 km and 3,990 m ascent, respectively (if my Polar's correct). That's a massive feat of endurance. :clap: And a big thumbs up to the team from Dirtopia once again. Well organised, great venue and a fantastic loop.

Wishing both riders a speedy and full recovery.