Please do not ride alone

[Desi]

I have just read the thread 'Mugging on Smitswinkel' and my blood ran cold just reading it.

Just over 1 year ago, I was attacked in broad daylight during an organised race/fun ride in a rural area in the Western Cape. An organised race - I thought I would be safe. I was pulled off my bike by a teenager who tried to rape me and threatened to kill me. I was very, very lucky; saved by the fact that another cyclist came along - the bastard who attacked me ran away. I was about 400 metres behind a small group of riders ahead of me, but they had crested the hill and were out of sight.

I cringe every time I see a lady riding alone in a remote or quiet area. I know that we should be able to do so. I know that we should not let these savages take away what we enjoy doing. But I also know, from bitter experience, that I am not prepared to trade my life for the pleasure of riding alone in a beautiful area.

Don't do it. Please - just don't do it.

Ride with people. If possible, ride with a couple of guys. Guys - offer to ride with the ladies purely as an escort sometimes. You may have to slow down to their pace, but you can always treat this as an easy ride or rest day.

I know that even a group is no match for someone with a gun, but in many cases - like this opportunist on Smitswinkel, and like my attacker - I am sure he would not have taken on this lady if she were not on her own.

I cannot begin to express how something like this can affect you - ladies, please, just don't ride alone. It is not worth it.

[River Rat]

Desi, I know this may seem like a small thing but the fact that you are posting about this at all is good. Our country and the world for that matter is really tough on a woman's freedom and I agree with you that with a little forethought and organisation we can create an environment where you can at least do what you want to without restriction. As a backmarker I often find myself escorting one of the ladies and it is no problem for me at all. Hopefully your post will motivate others to do the same.

[flymango]

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.

Edited March 2, 2014 by flymango

[Gen]

Ai, So sorry that you had to go through that ordeal.

[MoreTrails]

Desi - all strength to you for posting your story, and is serious food for thought...FOR ALL!

 

I find it so sad and frustrating that we have to write these posts. At some point in the near future, unfortunately, it is going to escalate from one side or another. And until that happens, it feels like the powers that be are in the wings, having cheese and wine until someone says: "oh sh*t - did you see what just happened...time to do something"

['Dale]

So sad to hear your story.

:-(

 

Glad you were rescued.

[Mads]

Sjoe just rode 60km on my own yesterday. I guess one does not realize how big the chance is that you are taking untill it explodes in your face or you read something like this.

[canadonis]

Desi

 

Your strength to share experience will hopefully enlighten someone to the dangers of riding alone even in 'safe' environments and hopefully prevent another such incident.

 

Thanx

Cana