Training Log Archive: briangardner

Raced this one last year and really enjoyed it. Route was about 1.1kms longer due to some additional single track sections that they added in here and there, but essentially exactly the same route. One very technical single track section that was added was where a large part of the additional time was added this year. Also changed the direction of the loop on the top end of the race this year (clockwise this year as opposed to anti-clockwise last year), which was definitely slower this time. Last year's split to the KOM was 1:05 and this year 1:06, but with a small added single track instead of fast tar. Had a reasonable start up the hill, holding 3rd place. Caught 2nd place on the rocky portage, but got passed by him up the steep KOM climb again. 1st place guy was flying. Held onto 3rd place all the way around the Kgaswane plateau. The wind up there was pumping, and always seemed to feel like a head wind!! Beautiful area to ride and stunning views. Well organised race and good vibe at the finish. Had a good ride in the end and got the entry and travel paid for with a bit of prize money!

2015 time: 2:32
2016 time: 2:45 (slightly longer and more slow technical bits added)

C • Well done Brian! 3

Evening run up the mountain, down gully, "loopy" track and back. Small loop in Coves to finish.

Quite choppy out there with a stiff westerly and many motorboats. 24:18 out with the tailwind and 26:35 return. Happy with the time considering fighting waves all the way.

Damsig, concrete track, tannie miems, railway and dirt roads and then to van Gaalen on the river trails. Met up with a mate from Pretoria and then went out and back on the River trials with him before a few choc milkshakes and toasted sandwiches were consumed! Wind picked up and blowing hard by midday.