Race to the Sea (2 September 2023)

Race to the Sea – MotoMarshal Event
Saturday 02 September 2023

Ready Steady Go!

The MTB cyclists who dared to enter this monster of a race woke up the town of Franschoek very early on Saturday, 02 September 2023. Before the sun had time to rise, the town was buzzing with cyclists getting in the last cup of coffee, breakfast snack and tyre check at the foot of Franschoek pass. Probably one of the most intimidating yet beautiful race starts I have ever seen. Franschoek Hugenot Monument set the scene for the gunshot to go off.

Just like the cyclists did a lot of prep work before the time to ensure they are well prepared for the monstrous 160kms that waited for them, so a lot of work goes in behind the scenes to make events like these run as flawless as possible, knowing all the elements that need to come together at the perfect time. The BMW MotoMarshal team has become a value-added service to events like this to make sure that happens.

The Marshal team arrived just after 6 in Franschoek, spirits were high while the orange brigade huddled together discussing some last final touches to the day. The team spirit amongst this team is very special and immediately we felt at home amongst our ‘new’ teammates.

As the Elite racers took off, so each marshal gracefully joined his group and took off over Franschoek pass. Each marshal knows his role and it just happens. No scrambling or guessing. It just happens. This team really runs as a well-oiled machine.

We headed out with the second last group, up over Franschoek pass. Starting with an uphill like that, I was grateful the MTB stayed home, and I was snuggled at the back of my husband on his 800. The cyclists came flying down the pass. So far so good. Everyone was in the right place at the right time.

Coming to the end of the pass we saw Ellis and co-pilot guiding everyone comfortably across the road.

Soon we headed out onto the gravel. The fun part started. We gained race access to farms and was blessed to be able to ride through the orchards of Grabouw. The cyclists must have felt this the same way we did. Breathe in – Breathe out, Damn! We live in a beautiful province.

The route took us all through Van der Stels pass and then a quick and out of Botrivier via Beaumont Farm. Another sneak peak at riding through a beautiful farm. We had single tracks, mud, beautiful roads, slippy slide roads, and the lets not forget the loose pebbles in empty beds. The cyclist’s playground was open. And they could choose their poison because they were spoiled for choice on the day.

Off to Caledon and Tesselaarsdal, the route continued to unfold into a more beautiful canvas for everyone. Riding under bridges that opened up to views of yellow and green. The marshals still guided their teams through it all and the banter between cyclist and rider became more as the day continued. The day seemed to start like strangers on a field, by lunch time we were all in it together. Some cyclists got side wall punctures and bought some land out there, while some of us ended up doing the same, just to keep us all humble you know (wink).

The role of the marshals is primarily there to ensure safety of the participants and also ensure the race rules are adhered to. With this being said, everyone who decides to marshal, does it because they want to be there and have a passion for people and the sport.
Coming to the end of the day we headed to the finish line in time for the first rain to start falling. Sitting in the VOC with Andy, our eyes in the sky, we heard that the last cyclist wasn’t as close to home as we hoped. Our captain Donovan headed out again to go assist with some of the other marshals. They stayed with the group until everyone was home.

This is what makes this team even more special.
Having participated in a few sports events, running, cycling and so on, I must admit when I felt like the wheels literally were coming off, there would be a marshal waving a flag or suddenly next to me somewhere on the route giving a few words of motivation. I know the value of that. Knowing you are safe, knowing that there is someone there who has your back, even though you don’t even know their names, maybe just the color of their bikes or a number that stuck in your head for the 5 seconds you looked up to catch your breath.

Thank you, BMW MotoMarshal team. I know everyone who enters and completes an event like this is a winner and a warrior, but you guys are definitely the Guardian Angels that fly above it to make sure everyone is race ready.

Station2Station – 29April2023

FOMO: the fear of missing out.

With a previous date being postponed due to bad weather and the weather forecast not playing in our favour, I checked YR more than Eskom’s app last week. Between loadshedding and very in-accurate weather forecast these days, it feels like soon we will be running around in our swim shorts at 10 degrees making soup on a gas stove. Who can keep up with the changes, one thing that doesn’t change however is the feeling of helmet time, and a bit of dirt road. Probably the only time we get to where stress leaves you for a moment and you get to hear your breathing slow down a little bit.

With a slight drizzle we decided that we would go ahead with the day’s event. We pitched up at the garage, and one by one the machines rolled in. With an awesome bunch of people we headed out for what would be another amazing day on the bike.

Coming over Sir Lowry’s Pass, our first stop was Elgin Railway Market for a nice warm cup of coffee. I have become quite fond of this coffee stop. The coffee is warm, and the ambience is cozy on a cold morning. The structural design of this old spot is beautiful, and the hustle of the little stores get the vibe going early on a Saturday morning.

After we all downed our warm drinks, we headed out together onto the Highlands gravel road from Grabouw to just outside of Kleinmond. This time of year, the leaves are changing color and what was a dry orchard or just a field is now a painted canvas of all different shades of orange, green and brown. Beautifully colored landscapes we snaked through it all stopping to take in the beauty at the viewpoint on Highlands.

Sometimes we take it for granted that not all of us are used to gravel or dirt riding, and then people like Daleen remind us of what it feels like to do the GS dance for the first time. What excitement it is when you see the joy on someone’s face when they have survived their first dirt experience and that on a day after the earth had been well watered. The helmet comes off and it is just ear to ear smiling happening there with a slight shake happening in the gloves. So worth it, indeed it is!

We missioned on and twisted and turned through the Karwyderskraal road, entering Botrivier on tar.
We had a very good time at Shuntin’ Shed, their food is great… if you are hungry then they will sort you out. Shuntin’ Shed is a small restaurant that has been built on the station platform in Botrivier. The restaurant décor is very interesting and makes for a homey experience.

If you were planning to just do a hard ride for the day, then I am not sure that you joined the right party on this day. It was definitely a friend’s day out as the chats and laughs were maybe a little bit more than the km’s. In my mind the best of both worlds.

After paying the bill we headed out towards Van der Stels Pass. They are doing some work on the road, so a few surprises here and there, but always a nice scenic road to ride if you want to get your tyres a bit dirty.

We quickly headed out after that over Franschhoek pass and said our goodbyes at the lookout point. Some of us made our last stop for a ‘cup of tea’ at Francshoek Station Pub. So maybe we got stuck here again, just maybe a little. But we ticked off our last station for the day.

Sometimes you don’t need to go away for a weekend to feel rested, you just need a day out with some friends, on bikes, in nature to feel refreshed again.

One thing is for sure, doesn’t matter how old you are, what you do for a living, when we put our helmets on, we all become like kids on the playground again!

Twist and Turn day on the TarBreakfast ride – 19/03/2023

A day on the bike is always better than a day in front of the laptop, I have heard that statement many, many times before, and how accurate it is every time.

All riders pitched up nice and early at the meeting point. It was a nice group of people, as usual, most of us are, who are we to argue, right?

Lots of new faces, and what I noticed from the word go, was we had some new residents to our beautiful province. Some GP and KZN friends who recently moved to Cape Town and wanted to get to know their new home. No better way to do it than on a motorbike, through the picturesque mountain passes.

After a quick briefing, we went in the direction of the Swartland. Interesting how the fields are not as dead and brown as they usually are this time of year. With green fields almost everywhere, it almost feels like we have skipped winter and danced straight into spring.
The group flowed like a beautiful GS snake on the tar with oranges lights in the rear view mirror as we continued towards Du Toit’s kloof pass. The weather was perfect, with the rain having spared us another day.

After arrival at Du Toit’s Kloof Lodge we noticed the group was smaller, thinking to myself, how do we lose a rider or 2 coming up Du Toits Kloof pass, anyway after a few minutes they pitched up for breakfast too. Rouen helped pick up a pannier that went visiting a few baboons on the side of the road. What’s the odds you ask, well every trip (be it a breakfast tar ride) has a story.

We enjoyed our breakfast, being a bit slow on service delivery, it gave us time to get to know our new friends. The breakfast was very good and it hit the spot for the rest of the day.

We grabbed the helmets and headed towards the bikes to kit up. I don’t think I ever get bored of watching the eyes and the cell phones come out as onlookers stop dead in there tracks to see a group of people kit up and depart on their machines together. It always gives me butterflies. Yes, we are THOSE people. When we ride away, I think to myself, I am sure that guy is telling his wife, he wishes it was him, and she is probably thinking I will look so hot in those bike pants. (wink,wink).

Some of the riders departed to get home for their Sunday commitments, and then the rest of us headed out for the best part of the day. We headed towards Villiersdorp. Fields and hills so green and the air so fresh. The road was open and the group flowed as if it was meant to be that way. We ended up taking a quick hydration stop in Kleinmond. Sometimes a secondary waterhole is definitely required on a day like this. Stopping in Kleinmond, I thought to myself how I definitely take our small towns beauties for granted. It takes a few GP’ers and KZN’ers for me to realise again that we really do stay in the best province in South Africa.

Clarens Drive is OPEN!

When the ice melted in our glasses, we kitted up again took the scenic ride home. Clarens drive stays one of Carel’s favourite roads to ride on a bike. That whole thing about finding your mojo on a bike is true. If you feel you have lost your mojo, just go ride Clarens Drive. You will find it there! You twist and turn and dance around all the corners with the blue ocean on your left and the majestic mountain on your right. What a view.
At the end of the pass we stopped for a quick meet and greet, people who you didn’t know a few hours ago, now felt like friends as the helmets come off to shake hands.

A day on the bike is better than a day in front of the laptop, hell yeah!

LEVEL UP ! A Spoonful of Sand will make you Smile[Cedarberg Oasis Weekend Away 12-13 November 2022]

What a weekend!

You know sometimes when you just get a day out on the bike it actually feels like you have had a 2-week holiday in an amazing destination. Well for me it does, especially after weekends like the one we just had.

Saturday morning, bright and early we met at the garage in Klapmuts. Bikes and kit all bright and shiny ready for the trip. We had a briefing and tanks were filled while some riders sipped on a cup of caffeine courage. Not knowing what the next 24 hours would bring we were eager to get the engines roaring. I can imagine that when 30 plus GS’es start their engines it must be quite intimidating for the rest of the humans in the parking lot. In my helmet I was like ‘’Watch this space’’.

The group split into Level 1 and Level 2 group riders and departed in their separate ways. With a quick goodbye, thumbs up and cheers of good luck we departed and were on our way. Where to you ask? This way, that way and then up and then down, and maybe left and right after that… it was a mystery.
We missioned on tar and winded through Wellington and then whoops! there she was, in all her glory… dirt … dust and gravel!

We winded through the farms and everyone’s wrist gout got a necessary flex as Neels would aptly put it. The cobwebs and kopwurms had moved to the back tyre and it was going well, and then riding in front I felt the bike do a dance and realised we had hit some sand patches. Hello Sand, it’s been a while! We wiggled through it and then the stick that lay across the road moved. Mother Nature through a snake in the mix just for fun. We indicated to Richard to be cautious, and then Elanza came and sailed passed our mini anaconda as if she was Crocodile Dundee with no scared hair on her head. Only later we heard she never saw the snake as she was too busy focussing on being LOS on the bike (Look up – Open up – Stand up).

We hit a few more patches of sand, and then the GS giants started falling like dominos. Oopsie, one potato, two potato, three potato, floor.

Luckily no GS babies were hurt in the process, maybe just a few bruised egos, but nothing a glass of something cold couldn’t remedy later on.

We winded between tar and dirt until we stopped at Citrusdal for some fuel. The weather started turning, and I realised our days of riding with 10 000 layers also has abruptly come to and end. Summer is here. We left the town with a roar.

We headed out towards Algeria and entered the Cedarberg. What a view. I love this place. You can come here at anytime and your soul will be filled. Open skies, clean air and the most beautiful mountains that tower above you. Being on a motorbike, twisting and winding in these mountains, it keeps you humble. How privileged are we to have all of this for free. In my helmet the only words that come out of my mouth into the silence, with a heart full of gratitude is Thank you!

With a cloud of dust,we stopped at Oasis. They were ready for us and it was very nice to take those boots and bike jackets off and have something that could clink a few ice blocks.

Accommodation was perfect with our mini tepee tents. Nothing a clean bed and a hot shower cant fix.

The call came through for our friends who departed after us that morning. On a technical pass near Wupperthal and Eselbank one of the riders made acquaintance with mother earth and required some assistance. The back up vehicle sped away while the rest of us kept the seats warm and the glasses full. We shared stories of the day, and it seems that our friend sand and rock was also on the menu for our other team for that day. Maybe we got off light? I am sure some would argue me with that one though. A few hours later all was back at Oasis safely and no major injuries.

After a good night’s rest, trainer’s on , I missioned by foot to explore a bit. Running here is one of my favourite things. Probably one of the places I have been with the cleanest air, and at that time of the morning the sunrise paints the sky in the most beautiful colours.

A breakfast of champions and loaded bikes, we were ready to rumble.

We headed out and followed the winding dirt road out of the Cedarberg. The road quality isn’t bad at all, and the team had definitely found its happy place. There was a minor crash-boom-bang, but the rider got up and dusted off quickly, and we were on the road again. We did a quick stop and au revoir at the Katbakkies turn off where some friends needed to hit the tar and the rest of us embraced the Katbakkies Pass, as this really is the ultimate and best way to enter the Tankwa. The GS train winded through the pass elegantly and stopped near the top to take in the magic around them.

We dropped down into the Tankwa and I swear my husband heard the coke and ice already, as I felt the bike do a jolted dance under me.

If you have never been to the Tankwa, let me draw you a picture. The nothingness between the blue skie and the brown earth is what makes it magical.

Everyone was in good spirits during lunch time, people who didn’t even know eachother’s names a day ago was talking like old-time mates.

Gear up for the last long road back to Ceres, the 355 is the road that reminds you, all good things come to an end my friend.

Okay, okay, maybe that’s a bit dramatic. Let’s rather say Du Toit’s Kloof has that effect on me. When Table Mountain shows her face in the distance as you drop down over the pass, its like back to reality woman!

Getting home after a weekend like this, the body goes, ‘’I am tired and dirty!’’ But the heart says ‘’thank you I feel so much better now’’

People who don’t ride will never understand this until they are on the bike in the middle of no- where. That passion is either in your blood or it isn’t. if you don’t like getting dirty rather stay at home knit a jersey and leave all the adventure stuff to us.

I never liked knitting anyway.

Dirty Boots

Sutherland with BMW Motorrad Club Cape 2022 (30-31 July 2022)

YR, Accuweather and Weatherman Pete could not even have prepared us for this weekend. I was watching the weather apps like a pensioner watching the lotto numbers days before the ride. Snow or no snow, below zero or a grateful +1? As I have learned over and over again, no weather app ever really gets it spot on. We all kept a low profile on the whatsapp group, but when the comments started flying regarding temperatures declining, I wasn’t sure if a rain suit, bently belt or a Michelin Man outfit would suffice.

Adrenalin quickly warmed us up as we arrived at our meeting point at the garage in Klapmuts early on Saturday morning. We filled up and had a quick briefing about the day’s activities. Keeping in mind we still had a few drops of rain and the previous days rain that left the ground wet, the group still bravely opted for the off-road adventure.

Heading out towards Wellington, we zipped over the Lady Loch bridge and soon hit our first mud gravel road. Tyres deflated quickly and the eager smiles under helmets gave it away, that today we would be like children again.

I don’t think I have experienced that much mud before in my life, limited parts of hard gravel, rest was dancing in the mud. The bike did its thing and the riders all stayed up. We had one slip slide experience, but the rider got back up quickly and when he joined the group it just looked like he spent to much time having fun actually. From boot to helmet it looked like he had been licked by a mud slide. We had a lot of fun in the mud. As a child wasn’t that one of your best moments? Playing around in the mud and getting good and dirty.

Not one bike or set of boots was clean. Recovering from our fun morning we headed back onto tar, swaying through Nuwekloof Pass and then at Tulbagh we turned into the Waterval road which is a gravel road leading towards Wolseley, grateful for some more offroad the orange lights in the rear view mirror kept with us. Mitchell’s pass was next, this stays one of my favorites. Short but Oh! So Sweet!

Making our way through Saturday morning Ceres traffic, we headed towards Gydo Pass. Unable to stop with the group, we missed our chance to get in some Bain’s Passes. I guess this creates another opportunity to go back and do this again soon.

I felt the front wheel slip like a rookie in the corner and over the comms our conversation was colorful. Something didn’t feel right. Pulling into the garage at Op-die-Berg we saw we had a puncture on the front wheel. After a longer than expected leg stretch while our Red Phoenix got some much-needed attention we headed off in to the Tankwa Karoo. Katbakkies pas never gets old, and when you start the decent into the Tankwa over the pass, yesterday’s problems are exactly where they belong, in yesterday and I can breathe again. Tankwa does that to most people. It is a feeling and not a place, you just can’t explain the air, the view or the relief you feel when you hit that road.
The bikes automatically turned in at Tankwa Padstal, so that we could pay our dues to the locals. Even if you don’t plan to stop there your bike knows the way and goes into the Padstal parking bay by itself.

Half an hour later we were on the way again through the Tankwa Karoo National Park towards Sutherland. With beautiful road conditions, here and there a dry river crossing caused a few of us to become airborne for seconds. The lights became smaller and then disappeared in the rear view as we realized our sweeper needed to be swept. Heading back to see what was keeping him occupied, we realized his topbox flew open with one of the dips in a dry bed and his evening tuxedo was spread all over the Tankwa. Quickly collecting his bits and bobs all over the field we were back on the road again.

The temperature was a healthy 13.5 degrees on the bikes electronic clock. As we hit the tar the digits started dropping. We came to a standstill at a healthy 5 degrees Celsius.

After unpacking in our little cottage we rented for the night, we took off the top layer of clothes and replaced it with another as we joined the group for a quick drink on the day. Happy faces were warming up at the fire with a well-deserved glass of their favorite.

The next morning, we did a leg stretch and went to discover the town on foot, at a healthy minus 7. We later met the group at the Hotel, everyone looked very well rested and keen for another day of dirty adventure.

We exited Sutherland and soon turned left off the tar, we winded through beautiful gravel roads, and entered a wind farm. The view was breath taking. Here and there was wildlife in the field and again you think to yourself, why don’t more people do this. We have such a beautiful country, and it has so much to offer us, with two wheels and a fair amount of guts – this can be your playground too.

We stopped for a quick group photo and then headed back towards Matjiesfontein on the last stretch of gravel. One of our riders had an accident on the road and the team quickly took control of the situation. The additional training that they received kicked in immediately and soon enough there was emergency services present to assist our friend. After he was safely on his way to the closest hospital for medical care, we regrouped. Even though the brave faces were there. When one of your rider friends go down, it does affect you. You can’t deny the feeling when you put that helmet back on your head. Everyone is left alone with their own thoughts in their helmets: worry, concern, gratitude and humility.

We refueled again in Touwsriver, the N1 wasn’t designed by and adventurous human that’s for sure. We headed towards the flat mountain, with Sutherland in our rear. Over Du Toits Kloof pass we quickly were back in city life reality. We said our goodbyes at the foot of the pass before heading back to our normal lives.

I have been a pillion for 5 years and a rider for 3 years. It doesn’t matter I guess where you sit on the bike. Your reason for getting on the bike every time is the same. It also doesn’t matter whether you are a doctor, lawyer, I.T guy or engineer from a Monday to a Friday. When you put your boots and helmet on and hit the road on your bike with a group of riders, you are family.

Back to Monday, ordinary people things, ordinary people clothes, ordinary people traffic…
but extra-ordinary memories !

Los-Lit-Lambertsbaai!

Lambert’s Bay Overnighter [5-6 March 2022]

This is by far my favorite trip to do with the BMW Club. It is a great kick off for the year and sets the trend not only for routes and riding but for friendships and good food.

This time, we however didn’t do it on the famous black BMW800GS, which has become Carel’s trademark on the road, but on his new baby, a blood red BMW800GSA, we will call her the Red Phoenix from now on. (Raise your eyebrows, if you want, but we all know that baby standing in your garage also has a name!)

We also decided to join the tar toads 😊, instead of the dirt donkeys this time. A relaxing afternoon at the Lambertsbay hotel in high temperatures sounded a lot more attractive than loose sand in a hot helmet. No, we are not getting old!

We met Ian and the group at the Engen Swartland, and after a quick hello and route plan we hit the road towards Philadelphia and then towards Klipheuwel. The morning had beautiful clean air. Helmet time is still great medicine for any illness you currently have.
Towards Malmesbury and onwards through Riebeeck kasteel and Riebeek West. We made our way towards Veldrif. For some a petrol stop was necessary, for others some H2O did the trick.

Next stop was Deli on Main in Dwarskersbos.
We all quickly found our seats in this little restaurant and ordered something cold. The service was excellent. Carel and I have lots of fond memories of Dwarskersbos, as we have kind of made this town our own since our Mini-Moon 3 years ago. The restaurant offered very good service, the quality was amazing, and we got free dessert, milktart rolls as a gesture to thank us for our visit. Once again, you kind of glance back in your mind to the side effects that C19 have had on local businesses and see the need and want to support our own. But let me not give that terrible word any further airtime. 2 years down the line and we are still here, healthy and riding in fresh air again!

We were on the road again. The temperature started to drop, and it was refreshing riding on the coastline, along Elandsbay. We arrived in Lambertsbay soon after that. Helmet in hand, bags over the shoulder we descended on the receptionist.
After a few cold ones, some napped and some just accidentally glued their bike pants to the bar seat for another few, while the brave embraced the swimming pool.

As always, our mini van collected us for our dinner at Muisboskerm.
This venue, setting and menu never disappoints. You always end up eating too much, drinking too much, and laughing even more.

Sitting that night at the table amongst riders that have become friends. I thought to myself. I have probably been part of the club for about 5 years now and seeing these familiar faces on these trips is like a family reunion with the cousins, Aunts and Uncles that you only ever see on special occasions. It’s lekker!

So, we have that BMW badge on our clothes and bikes, so what?

It’s the camaraderie of the group that makes the badge worth wearing.

After a wonderful evening at Muisboskerm. The minibus convoyed us all back to the hotel. The Die-Hard’s stumbled in a bit later, as usual.

We all met at breakfast the next morning. Some rider’s eyes looked smaller than the day before. Must be all that dust on the dirt road? (Cough)

We departed soon after, toads and donkeys together. We said our final goodbyes at Velddrif petrol station. Jandre and his nephew joined us for one more waterhole stop at the Plaasmol near Hopefield. This is another Padstal that is worth the visit. On Sunday’s they have live bands and craft markets and a decent ‘’refreshment station’’.

Glad to kick of 2022 with this one. The muscles are stretched now. Let’s keep them loose.

(Y)mansdam Farm

• 

• 

• 

Tankwa Karoo – June 2021

‘’wanneer jy hier ry, en om jou kyk besef jy dat jy rerig net n klein poeppie in die heelal is’’  

This place is just another world altogether, and I will never get bored of the silence, the nothingness, the humility and peace that it brings every time you enter the dust of the endless R355.

We set out on a long weekend mission to the Tankwa Karoo. As usual Carel found us a new place to visit, that we haven’t even heard of before. A working farm about 90kms from Calvinia. The name of this sheep farm is Ymansdam. 

We left nice and early on the Thursday morning and headed towards Wolseley forestry plantation where Carel grew up, we stopped in between the pine forest and yanked out the flask that we had filled at home, we enjoyed the fresh air and open spaces while reminiscing on the past with a cup of coffee. 

We headed for Geldenhuys butchery in Prince Alfred Hamlet to buy our meat for the weekend. When going into the Tankwa Karoo on a roadtrip, biltong and droewors are obvious necessities. Their products are really good quality and you can support them when on your travels out that way again.

Last stop for diesel before we said au revoir to tar and society was at Op-die-berg. We made our way quickly out towards Katbakkies pass. To think a few years ago I had no idea this pass or place ever existed. Now it rolls off the tongue as if talking about Old Paarl road. 

Katbakkies pass is always beautiful, view is breathtaking when you get to the top. The air doesn’t get much clearer than this. Dropping off on the other side with the Tankwa laying at its feet, you know you have said goodbye to average life civilization and entered a world of magic. 

Yes, this place is Magic!

• 

• 

• 

Quick pitstop at the famous Tankwa Padstal to stretch our legs then we headed towards our home for the next few days. 

Right, the entire route was plotted with GPS, the map took us through the Tankwa Karoo National Park. So, we did what the lady on the little square screen in the corner of the windscreen told us to do. ‘’Draai regs’’ so we did, ‘’Draai links’’ so we did, and we went on and on…. and on. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

She kept us busy with ‘’herberekening’’ for about an hour and a half. We soon realized that not even she knew where we were off too, who would of thought a woman without direction! Amusing to say the least but what better place to be lost than in the Tankwa. We decided to ditch the Afrikaans Tannie screaming from the little screen and work on gut feel making our way through the wet and narrow pathways through the park. The roads were wet, and certain places surprised us with mud and water potholes, which kept us alert and laughing as we missioned onward. Making our way finally towards to farm, the sun was setting. 

• 

• 

• 

We met the Steenkamp’s who live and own the farm Ymansdam. It has been in their family for a few generations, and they farm mainly with sheep. 

We stayed in a little cottage next to the house. It was all we needed, furnished one bedroom cottage without electricity. They work on solar power for lights and gas for kitchen appliances. The water is kept warm with a wood fired ‘’donkie’’. It was perfect for us!

After a my mild panic attack for the limited WIFI, I was fine. To have break is necessary and we should grant ourselves this rest when it comes across our paths. If you need to switch off from the world then it includes your phone that has become a handicap item that we all now wear. 

• 

• 

We ended the evening off with a fire going, meat making musical tunes as the coals tickle it from below. And don’t forget glass of something to keep the insides nice and warm.

Waking up to the sound of chickens and sheep, now I know I am not waking up in my own bed. Beautiful sunshine morning with clear skies. We headed out to go explore the farm on foot. The farm is about 5000 hectares and definitely didn’t get to all of those hectares in our time there.

After a quick breakfast, we packed our flask and snacks and headed towards Ouberg Pass. This is a beautiful dirt road pass, but if you are nervous for heights or don’t like living on the edge (excuse the pun) maybe you should do this one as a sleeping passenger. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Stopping on the lookout point, we took out our treats and made coffee. Now we can say we have made coffee in the middle of nowhere, on a ledge, with open skies and wide open spaces with not a soul in sight. We were about 1300m above sea level . Sipping my coffee looking out over the mountain , I thought to myself we haven’t even seen a human in about 2 hours.. do the people here even know what’s happening on the other side of the mountain? What is Covid and lockdown and Level 4.1.2 Annexure B? 

On our way down the pass we were bought to an abrupt halt with the day to day traffic stop, sheep!

During the winter months the sheep are trekked down to lower lying farming areas, as temperature is a lot higher down below than up in the pass’s farming area. This trek is apparently nothing out of the ordinary and happens often. The sheep however are not afraid of heights as little bla-bla-black sheep scraped his hoofs on the edges making his way around our vehicle. 

• 

• 

• 

We entered Sutherland to get some last supplies for the weekend. And on our way back, we went over Gannaga Pass. We stopped at the famous Gannaga Lodge for a quick liquid refreshment before continuing down this beautiful pass. The winding turns coming down give a resemblance of Swartberg pass, but maybe a little more “Oopsie’’ moments if you don’t stay focused.

Another beautiful fulfilling day. The fire created heat while the Karoo night set in. 

• 

• 

The next morning we headed out again on foot in the opposite direction of the farm house. The farmer told us he was struggling with foxes on the farm as they are becoming quite a menace. They break through the fences and just bite the sheep and leave them for dead while moving on to the next one. This causes huge financial losses for the farmer. This is a disadvantage of bordering on the National park. In true fashion my husband, Sherlock Holmes sets us walking in that direction, with me trailing nervously behind.  We didn’t find any foxes but came across repaired and broken fencing, traps and holes that was not dug by Mary’s Little lamb. 

I have a lot of compassion for the farmers, I doubt the everyday customer actually grasps what these people go though every day. Water, drought or flood, fire, wild animals, hail, snow. And don’t forget to add the unwelcome masked visitors. We just throw the meat in the trolley and if it is braaied  to dry we moan it was the sheep’s fault. 

We headed to get the bakkie and explore the rest of the farm for the day. Finding a peaceful spot in a dry river bed we parked and had a picnic. Moments like these are made for movies and novels. You can’t buy it, you can’t touch it, you just have to actually be there. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

We did some 4×4 trails on the farm, I polished some skills behind the wheel as well and it was loads of fun. 

Lighting the fire for the last evening was bitter sweet knowing that tomorrow night this time we would be on the couch watching the Sunday night movie.

• 

• 

The next morning we went on our last mission of exploration on the farm. A quick breakfast of champions – Leftovers ! We sat with Nettie and Arno Steenkamp for a few minutes before heading back towards ‘’The Normal’’ . they are humble and good people, we can recommend our friends to stop there on their missions through the Tankwa Karoo next time. You will be welcomed by this family and your stay will be something to remember. Just for them to share their home and family farm with us was an honor.

• 

• 

• 

I can tell you about the views and open spaces we saw, but there isn’t really a picture that can justify this. I can tell you its peaceful , but you have to experience it yourself. 

• 

• 

• 

The Tankwa Karoo has a way of keeping you humble. The farmers and community that live here know what it is to struggle, but you don’t hear them complain. 

We can all learn a little something here. 

“At first encounter the Karoo may seem arid, desolate and unforgiving, but to those who know it, it is a land of secret beauty and infinite variety.”

Ons harts plek, ons sien julle nou nou weer. 

Kind ❤ Karoo

24 – 27 September 2020

We can travel, we can travel with in our country’s borders … 

That was probably the next best thing since lifting the ban of purchasing alcohol and cigarettes . . . legally.

What a year, I know … just like you , I was also living in this covid time.  A story that will  be told generations from now. People will read about this time and think, how did the world stand still? 

But 6 months down the line we are alive, we are healthy, wiser, more grateful, we all know ‘’a guy’’ who can get stuff, and the next season of Master Chef will have a lot more entrants.

Many people missed many things, but 1 thing I missed a lot was just getting in a car or on a motorbike and disappearing for a few hours or a few days.  

I guess for some of us, the wide-open spaces of dirt, endless blue sky and silence is something that our souls long for. To get to the place where you inhale peace and exhale worry. That probably sounds very  dramatic … but until you have stood on a mountain pass overlooking the Karoo, you won’t understand this feeling of fullness and emptiness all at once.

As soon as we were levelled down to get access to exit our street pavements to travel, we decided the time is now. 

We put together a quick 4day Karoo road trip, making sure we slept somewhere else every night. This is one of my favourite ways to holiday… you just see so much more, and it has an extra element of adventure in it. 

We quickly roped in our parents as well. Being in lockdown has been hard on a lot of people. While our parents should have been making memories, with their children , grandchildren and travels… they lost time. 

So the decided trip was mashed together , 2 x vehicles (neither one being 4×4… this has to be stated for the record😊), 6 people, 4 days, 3 nights, 1200kms to cover, and many, many dirt roads. 

We left the Thursday morning, headed out over Bainskloof pass, we made Calabash at opening time for a cup of coffee.  It wasn’t long and then we were through Ceres, onto Op-die-berg where we grabbed our dinner menu at the Spar. I was quite impressed with the shop considering the location. 

Headed towards the gravel, the turnoff reading Tankwa Karoo, came closer like a hot chocolate on a cold winter’s day

Katbakkies Pass stays one of my all-time favourites. It has many good memories for me, and this is where the world switches off… 

Down to Tankwa Padstal we stopped for a quick lunch, it is great to see that they are very busy, with some familiar and friendly faces. Finishing up, we headed out for our last stretch for the day.

Just after Padstal there is a turnoff which heads in the direction of Sutherland. It is a lovely road, for people who are weary for the dust and dirt. 

Entering Sutherland, I had booked a house for us called, “Jack the Karoo’’

It is a very nice house, modernised on the inside but the old style look and feel still kept on the outside. 

We made a fire and did some good old South African cooking on the grid. 

The sun rose the next morning,  as we went for our morning run in the direction of Fraserberg. The air so clean, I could feel my lungs burning. Not so used to this fresh fresh air.

We packed up and headed out back the way we came, except turning towards Tankwa again, we turned left, towards Merweville

This town is one of my ‘’bucket list’’ towns. Driving through the Moordenaars Karoo was beautiful. I don’t think I have seen a place like this. The only place a I can semi compare it to that I have been to is the Richtersveld in a way.

We stopped on top of Rummelkop pass for breathing and photo oppurtunites. Wow… its stunning. 

I was driving with my mom and daughter in the one vehicle and my husband with his parents in the other vehicle. Having walkie talkies to keep the communication alive. 

Driving this pass was interesting for my mom. She has never ridden so much dirt before and also never tackled passes like these before. Not to mention her cigarette quota was definitely maxed by the end of Rummelkop pass. But will we do it again? hell yeah!

Getting closer to Merweville, I could see the Church stick out above the town. It always amazes me how these small towns, that are almost forgotten, have the most beautiful churches. 

We stopped and had a lunch at the ‘’Boek Klub’’ , apparently a Tv series was filmed here as well, relating to this name.

It is a very cute restaurant. If you are going  this way make a point of stopping and supporting this local business.

Pushing on towards Leeugamka for a quick trip down memory lane. 

My father-in-law grew up here. After many moons, it was only right to drive by memory lane to see the remains of what once was his childhood home. 

That night we slept on a farm called Abrahamskraal, outside of Prince Albert. 

It is a beautiful farm, my first ever bike trip as pillion was to this venue. So many ‘’braai stories’’ have come from this place. 

The décor and setting has been done in a way that definitely preserves the heritage of the family that owns this farm.

Aunty Hestie, welcomes you with the same warmth as the winter sheets on the beds. We had such a good time here, within minutes you feel that you are home.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

After a good nights rest, we went for quick run around to make sure stretched legs for the day in the car again. The air amazes me. Its hard to explain being 1500m above sea level and the effect it has on your breathing when you live so close to the coast. 

We had a quick breakfast, leftovers (best road trip food ever!) 

Headed into Prince Albert, quick stop at the Spar for reinforcements and then my highlight, Swartberg Pass. 

My mother and daughter have never been up here before… so it was something  I wanted them to experience. Photo’s don’t do this place justice. We crept up with little Mahindra Mouse (which has proved to be more than capable to handle mountains)

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

We had faded out the old favourites as the cd’s were packed back into its pouch. There was just the noise of the engine, and aromas of fresh air. My daughter flung half her body out the car window. don’t think she has ever experienced this sense of freedom and peace before. Snapping away, taking pictures, giggling and laughing of how awesome this place is to her 

Swartberg Pass is beautiful and you climb about 1000m height in 14kms

If you are afraid of heights and cliff edges, then this might not be your kind of thing. Keep in mind it’s a perfect example of life… the only way to get to the other side is to go through, even if it scares you.

Dropping down on the other side of the pass we twisted and turned until the engines stopped at Kobus se gat. We gathered our thoughts here, had a quick snack and missioned onwards

Just after Kobus se gat we took the gravel option towards Calitzdorp. This is a beautiful road, with even more beautiful views. The ‘’spekbome’’ and aloes grow bountiful here and the look like they pour down the mountain sides. Everything is very green, and we even spotted a family of giraffes peeking at us over the tree-tops

You can see this area has had sufficient water, I could easily live here, but the voice on the walkie talkie from the other car brings my day dream back to earth… ‘’Vrou, ons kan nie in elke dorp wat jy van hou, n huis koop nie!’’ 

Coming out in Calitzdorp , towards Ladismith we took the turn off for Seweweekspoort. The river here crosses the poort 28 times. (yes , we counted) 

The mountains tower above us, as we drive through it. Breath taking. My mom said a very true thing, she said travelling through places like this remind her of how small we really are … it keeps you humble and grateful.

We spent the last night on a farm in Seweweekspoort. Lovely secluded flatlet on the farm. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

We gathered the wood for the last nights Karoo Fire! We laughed, a lot.. carefree.. no talks of covid or its side effects. It was just easy to be carefree for the first time in months. 

Next morning we went for a hike on the farm, going over the hill we spotted kudu , and the spotted us and quickly disappeared into the surroundings.

Packing up, we knew today we are homeward bound.

Hitting the tar we headed to Diessel and Crème in Barrydale, it was definitely a selling point for the trip to my daughter. Milkshakes all round! Great ending to a fantastic 4day road trip

Getting home, unpacking and there is just no place the dust didn’t get into you almost don’t want to have the car washed… its means the roadtrip is over

On the Monday morning when I woke up, the first thing that crossed my mind is… ‘’okay, where to next?’’ 

Just for the record, no Mahindra or Hyandai Creta was injured during this journey 😊

• 

The way back …

It’s definitely been a while, maybe close to 18 months that I last rode my own motorbike. it seems silly and nonchalant, but sometimes our own minds are the only things keeping us from something we really love doing.

When my husband said I have to ride my own bike on Sunday, I knew it was coming, I couldn’t hide behind the comfortable seat between his back and the topbox. He just wouldn’t let me have my way. In my mind I headbutted him a few times, repeatedly and shouted to him ”are you crazy?” like a five year old having a full blow tantrum, but the only words that came out of my mouth was, ”Okay!”

I have been avoiding this day for so long, since my dad passed away, I decided to park my bike physically and emotionally, as it was something that I did to honour my dad and couldn’t help but think of him every time I would ride as it was a passion I shared with him. Every time I would get on my bike in the past , and get to my first destination or stop I would usually WhatsApp him a picture or two to make him jealous of my adventure. He used to love reading and listening to my stories after we got home, from ”another bike adventure”.

So subconsciously I couldn’t actually ride again…

Getting dressed yesterday morning, as I put my bike pants on, my hands were shaking so much I couldn’t even get the Velcro to close properly, maybe I was coming down with a bug? that would of been great, because then I would have an excuse to sit this one out.

Not having my glasses either, I was using impaired vision as an excuse as well. Have you ever been so full of excuses in your life!

My husband wouldn’t have any of it. He just kept saying ”you will be fine, don’t stress” , in my mind, I headbutted him again!

Getting on my bike, looking at the handlebars and electronic little dashboard , I hit a blank, I couldn’t remember how to use any of the little buttons in front of me.

I put the ignition switch on and the familiar sound of the idling engine of my ducky came to life. I dropped to first gear and pulled away. I was still shaking like a leaf , as I went through the gears. By the time I reached the R300 the nerves had settled and I was still on my bike, like it was yesterday.

We took a ride through Strand and had a waterhole stop at Pitstop in Clarens drive, yes they are open and serving cooldrinks and snack foods for passer by’s.

While the boys were getting our cooldrinks, I hijacked a table in the afternoon sun and lit a cigarette (for the nerves you know .. )

I thought about the last half hour or more, and my dad.

My fears of heartsore of the loss of my dad had kept me from doing something I really loved. So I needed to find my way back the hard way. Being left with no other choice than just to ride.

The time in the helmet yesterday was with him. and I know I cant just send a WhatsApp pic to make him jealous anymore, but I can share the memory of it.

After a quick drink with the boys, we put the helmets back on and I pleaded for something that resembled gravel.

We headed through Stellenbosch on the Klipheuwel road and turned into Hoopenberg road for some dirt.

Aaaaaahhhhh heavenly dust everywhere. Some cows, some sheep, some trees, some sand patches, Yes I even welcomed those !

When we got home, I took my sunglasses and helmet off, and went to look at myself in the mirror… eyes red from the dirt and fresh air, cheeks filled with dust, But oh boy, I felt alive again.

We all ride for different reasons, and the thing that gets us on the bike or takes us off the bike is different for everyone. Yesterday I didn’t ride the Sani pass – but in my heart it felt like I just completed a Dakar Rally.

So Dad, you and me and my helmet have many roads still to ride. I will honour your memory by carrying on..

Sorry it took me a while to find my way back

 

 

 

 

West Coast ( The Karoo of the Coast)

After a very busy few months of planning and wedding things to do, we finally were able to get a few nights away at (Dwars)Kersbos in the West Coast. Here we would celebrate our mini-moon.

A lot of people would have bought the airplane tickets long ago already and have the airport taxi ready. Carel and I aren’t really bothered with airport queues and long flights, as neither of us have the patience to sit still long enough.

We both love this country despite what news24 says, we still believe in the simple beauty that our country has to offer and therefore we kept our mini-moon local. And what is more local than the Westcoast.

We booked into a self catering apartment in Kersbos, this is a newer development beach area just on the outskirts of Dwarskersbos.

We headed out via Hopefield, we like this way out, as the R27 is just soooo straaaaiiighhhht and boring.

We stopped at the Plaasmol outside Hopefield. We have driven past this place a few times but now we had the time to stop, so the car came to an abrupt halt.

Lovely family run farm, with a rustic kind of store which has been turned into a bar.

We pulled our seats up close to the bar, being the only ones there. We ended up spending time with the bar tender learning the history of the farm and what they do etc. if you are ever in the area. Do not drive past this place. They are just outside Hopefield on the left and is noticeable from the little airplane in its front yard.

After our book in at Kersbos with Sallie at the Tumble in , we went on a hunt for food. With only one local superette and a pizza restaurant on the side of the road, our endeavours for shopping left us with limited choices. We didn’t mind as too many options leads to too much wasted time.

We visited the superette, spent about twenty minutes dawdling through the rakkies-of-akkies and then walked out with a 2ltr coke. I just roll my eyes, this happens often.

The locals said that the pizza is good, so who are we to argue. We stopped at SEE KAIA and ordered pizza. To our surprise the prices were so good and the pizza was amazing.

Grabbing the pizza and beer we headed for the beach to enjoy the sunset of the West coast.

Moments like these are priceless when you think of how much people spend to see what we did, with nothing but a pizza in a cardboard box and a few beers. Painted skies, was a live colourful show with the crashing waves to add the sound effects for free.

The next morning we headed to the beach for a run, being a bit tired from the heavy week I can guarantee you that we definitely weren’t doing a Bruce and Elana sprint. The sea life from Kersbos to the right along the boundaries of the farm are amazing. There is no pollution on the strand, only here and there a fish skeleton and a friendly seal coming out of the ocean for his morning yoga.

After a quick breakfast we headed out . Inland Bound.

When there is a dirt road, Carel gravitates …. On the bike or the car. The poor Hyandai was tested to its limits and we headed towards Elands Bay. Traditionally we stopped at Elandsbay hotel for a leg stretch. Here as in the rest of the raw parts of West Coast… don’t expect the fancy, the beauty is in the simple and friendly people that live there.

We jumped back in the car and headed out to Redelinghuys. I have never been to this little town before. So pretty and simple. It reminds me of a really old version of maybe Matjiesfontein and Sutherland.

The Church that burnt down recently is in state of demolition or repair. I couldn’t really make out if it was being further torn down due to irreversible damage or the attempt at restoring had commenced. The droning of heavy duty machines was the only noise that echoed through this little peaceful town

We headed towards Aurora, which is via gravel road from Redelinghuys a quick dust cloud over the mountains and then we arrived. Don’t sneeze and look for a tissue or you will mission right through this town and never notice its quaintness. As in every one of these little towns, the old churches stand out like a rose in a thorn bush.

We had a quick cooldrink as we strolled around the roads there. All this history hidden in our beautiful province.

Carel said it was time to join in the fun in Velddrif , being Friday afternoon , we checked into the local joint, Riviera pub.

We had a good visit with local residents. The chats are as if we have known each other for years. Within minutes you feel welcome, that is just how these people operate. Everyone greets eachother and smiles. They say it like it is in the best Weskus slang, and you embrace the whole of it. Good people live here.

We missioned off to another stop in Laaiplek. Die Vis Vlekhuis. Lesson learnt here… when in Laaiplek don’t order normal food, rather stick to what they are good at – Fish!

We ended off the day with a fire blazing and dreaming of our own plot at the sea one day. ‘’Eendag as ons groot is’’

Another beach run, day 2 seemed to go better on the legs on the sand. And then a quick brekkie and to the other direction we missioned

St Helena Bay, what a pleasant surprise. We ended up joining in the fun at the local Saturday market and had lunch in the middle of it. Ladies singing from a little amp, craft markets, people dancing. . . an unexpected time.

From here we headed out until we couldn’t go any further with the car. Brittania Bay, we had to turn the car around when the gravel road became to sandy for us. On the bike Carel would of still taken a chance, slight resemblance here to Kleinsee’s sand missions 2 years ago which became more a walk than a ride.

Back to Laaiplek , this time to the old hotel for a drink. We made it in time to celebrate our 1 week married life survival.

Back to our apartment we went , fire burned, we braaied and finished in time to catch the sunrise over the ocean. We missioned down to the sea and went for a long walk. Feet in the water…

Its on mini break aways like this where you realise that you can get along with the smaller things in life. You can always smile, and enjoy a stranger’s conversation.

Like the Karoo, and the Tankwa for me this part of the West coast has a peace that it brings over you, whether you intended it or not… it’s kind of the West Coast gift.