BIKES AND BATTLEFIELDS

Following on the success of last years mountain biking weekend, at the instigation and with the help of David Evans who recruited his fellow bikers,we decided to hold another one, but this time to do the whole battlefield tour by bike- on Saturday morning at 7.30 49 lycra clad men and women under the able command of Rob Caskie, who had plotted and planned a fantastic route, set off from the Lodge to cycle to Isandlwana and back, predominantly on single track.  It was a chilly winters morning, but the first hill banished all feelings of cold. Crossing the river  at Masondo was an interesting challenge, and very cold for those gallant enough to get into the water to help ferry bikes across (not many volunteers for this job!).  

Everyone made it safely across the ladder bridge.  After the Isandlwana lecture the group headed off again on single track to Rorke's Drift where a picnic lunch awaited them, followed by the Rorke's Drift lecture.  Some chose to ride home along the road while those who still had the energy took the single track around the back of Shiyane Mountain to get home.

It was a very happy and weary group of cyclists who returned in the late afternoon having ridden 45km! 


A great evening followed - many restorative drinks and lots of banter about the ride, and in the morning a few heads were taking more strain than the legs!

The weekend was a great success, best described by comments we received from the guests:

Memories of last weekend are etched into our souls and include the most humbling and thought provoking lectures by Rob, the warm and genuine hospitality at both Kwa George and the lodge, the great riding, and the wonderful bunch of people we got to do it all with.

Thank you again for an incredible weekend, it was a true and unique privilege to have your immense knowledge imparted on us, especially in the manner in which you deliver your lectures. I have yet to enjoy a historical experience quite as much as I enjoy touring the Isandlwana & Rorke’s Drift battlefields with you.

A roaring success and one which will fly your flag in many places. Already this morning I have had calls from people who have heard from others. We already have another trip for 2012 one which will be similarly full.

Thank you all for coming and we look forward to doing this again next year!