Friday, October 07, 2005
The Great Outdoors
I started mountain biking near the beginning of April…maybe March…
The fond memories…my friend gary…good times with friends…that all fades as you begin to ride more and more and more…I set my goal to ride a race in July—the infamous Oyster Festival 85K (52 miles). I ask myself why? —for the sponsorships, the prize money, the women, the crazy life of the tour…Okay, okay…how about for fun. And it has become noticeably easier (not easy—there is a difference).
My first ride here in Knysna was a grueling 25K…I looked pathetic and my friends (they become friends quickly in situations like this) were patient and supportive throughout my first rides. By June I was riding up to 50K and enjoying myself. The first ride is now a ‘fun’ ride—something we attempt after work and hope to get home by dark. The scenery is still spectacular and I’m continually being overwhelmed with the beauty of this place. I haven’t had any confrontations with Baboons since my last mention.
I also took a great hike with some friends. Robberg Island-- an incredible hike with almost constant sea views…and there are no sissies allowed. We started at around 2p.m. and finished at dark. As if I had any expectations when I arrived here in Knysna—hikes like this just surpass them.
The fond memories…my friend gary…good times with friends…that all fades as you begin to ride more and more and more…I set my goal to ride a race in July—the infamous Oyster Festival 85K (52 miles). I ask myself why? —for the sponsorships, the prize money, the women, the crazy life of the tour…Okay, okay…how about for fun. And it has become noticeably easier (not easy—there is a difference).
My first ride here in Knysna was a grueling 25K…I looked pathetic and my friends (they become friends quickly in situations like this) were patient and supportive throughout my first rides. By June I was riding up to 50K and enjoying myself. The first ride is now a ‘fun’ ride—something we attempt after work and hope to get home by dark. The scenery is still spectacular and I’m continually being overwhelmed with the beauty of this place. I haven’t had any confrontations with Baboons since my last mention.
I also took a great hike with some friends. Robberg Island-- an incredible hike with almost constant sea views…and there are no sissies allowed. We started at around 2p.m. and finished at dark. As if I had any expectations when I arrived here in Knysna—hikes like this just surpass them.
