I had begun to feel rather despondent with the often asked, “So are you a father and daughter team”. Not that I wouldn’t be proud to ride with a daughter of mine, or, more specifically, Emily if she was. But the real problem is that the perception that I may be old enough to be her father is of course a reflection that I am not untouched by the ravages of time. Despite what I like to believe when I look in the mirror. In a flattering, if somewhat dim light. And squint a little to blur the edges. Frankly, I think I look just like I did when I matriculated. Or at least pretty close!

Luckily today a sunbeam broke through the gloom when we caught up to another team who asked, “so are you two married”? My basking in said sunbeam was brief as I was jolted back to reality by Emily’s horrified protestation!

For the record, I am younger than Emily’s father. By, oh, I don’t know, at 1 or 2 years!

And this is Emily and I in her sponsors kit in just before the start stage 2.

Stage 2 was the queen stage of the race. Only 85km (actually, and critically, it was actually 87km) but with 2750m of ascent from Calitzdorp through to the summit of the Swartberg pass. A hors category climb in cycling terms. Equivalent to the biggies of the Le Tour de France. And the first time ever a SA bike race has had an “out of category” summit finish. 1100m of climbing in about 12km.

Before that though we climbed, descended and repeated the cycle a few times to make up the rest of the days punishment. Emily has already chalked up a number of “that was the hardest I’ve ever ridden” and we are only on day two. I would hazard though that summering the major climb of the day took a special effort from her.

Emily celebrating the end of stage 2

After the summit there was a 20km neutral zone down to Prince Albert. Well, not entirely all down. We had to drop a bit then climb back to Teeberg before the final stretch.

At Teeberg corner

But we are healthy and in one piece. Tired bodies will be fine in the morning!

Home sweet home