To all my readers, sorry for taking to long to update my blog due to the fact that lots of planning is going on these last couple of days but here I am to update everyone on what's going on these couple of days. Hope you guys enjoy it.
In my last update, I wrote on the ABSA Cape Epic, the 2011 edition just finished on Sunday at Lourensford Wine Estate outside Somerset-West. Like they say you aren't a mountain bike until you finished it and that's what I'm about to do. In this blog I will write on some of my journeys that I experienced the last couple of days.
For any typical person such as me, we take some time to write our goals down and do anything to achieve it but it takes lots of courage, determination and motivation to achieve it. While the ABSA Cape Epic is known for its grueling challenging courses layed out by Leon Evans known as Dr. Evil, its not always as easy as watching it from a spectator side and if you are not a cyclist yourself the you won't understand how that guys feels and that's when no one have respect for us as they don't get an idea of how it effects our bodies in many ways. For a week, these guys don't get a chance of seeing their families nor friends if they don't live in this areas but with so many spectators lining up at the start/finish areas, this do mean something for each of them taking part on this endurance event.
From professionals to just amateurs, finishing this event is a huge honor and the feeling of crossing the line is something they can't describe to anyone. With this being a team event, its not all about having not only faith in yourself but in your teammate as well and team work is a must. The thing I love of team events is the bond between two persons and they exactly know what's your strong and weak points as you race over a part of the Western Cape.
South Africa have a beauty of its own that attracts people to visit the country and with a rich history and culture makes our country special in a way. With beautiful areas, we have amazing routes for mountain biking and road. It brings international riders to our country as the ABSA Cape Epic shows what we have to offer for international tourist and showcase our beautiful nature as well.
Recently I decided to search for the right partner to team up with me to do this event in 2013 and as I was thinking on whom to ask, the name David De Backer came to mind. He is racing for Team Senqu and have a passion for the sport of mountain biking. While he had to miss out on the South African XC Championships and African XC Championships, this was the perfect opportunity for him to experience different from what we are used to with me.
With training starting soon, long hours on the bike awaits for both of us and with the cost of the 2012 ABSA Cape Epic stands on R35 400, its important to get a sponsor who will back you with everything you need during the 8 days of racing. While I'm waiting for confirmation on whether I'm accepted to volunteer next year in order to stand a better chance of receiving an entry, a couple of things need our attention such as training and sponsorships before next year as the entries for 2013 opens next year April.
While watching the repeats of this years edition, the questions pops up “Are you sure you want to do this” but then on the other side you think by yourself at the end of the day its all about the experience and what you have learned during that 8 days. Its not as easy as it looks but it change your views on life and proves to you that no matter how tough it is, anything is possible. By thinking how welcomed you will feel deep inside crossing the finish line with a big crowd supporting you is an amazing feeling.
While training is crucial to prepare mentally and physically, the thing that scares you the most is the part of accidents. If you fall then there is a chance you must withdraw and illness is also a big factor. This is not a one day race but 8 hours of long hours in the saddle and anything can happen at any time and its important to go in with lots of preparations is crucial.
With lots of planning going on, it can be very stressful at times. That's when you sit down and think of lots of things that need to be taken into considerations. No one said it will be easy at all but the fact is that so many people is supporting you can help you in so many ways.
Till next time
Yolande
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