Fijnbosch Farme

This trip was originally organised to help Frances get some more kms under her belt. In the end she opted to do the Intro Course with Leon, which was also a good thing. '''Riders''' Charles Oertel 1150GS (Mr Badger) Peter O'Hanlon 650Dakar Andy Connell 1150GSA Anne Connell F650GS The plan was to travel dirt all the way to Charles' Fijnbosch Farme (we had not yet accomplished this since we tried 1½ years ago). We met at the Swartland Engen on the N7 7am (ish), had breakfast and then headed off in search of dirt - a mere 14kms away. Turning left, we followed the train track, snaking its way through the Swartland. From that moment, we never sat down again, as the road was full of potholes, corrugations, ruts...and MANY water crossings. I tell you, I finally learnt to stand crossing water, except in 1 or 2 which were deep and slithery and tried to suck you down or wash you away with some currents.

I needed to visit our mountain farm to check on it. Andy and Anne were attending a Lafite clan gathering at the Sandveld Cottages nearby, so we arranged to meet and ride together. Rendezvous is Piketberg at 08:30. Leave at 6. By 7:00 I realize that I am not far from the Rendezvous so tap off (gawd but Mr. Badger has legs). Very windy around Morreesburg - skydiving experience comes in handy here ;-) Get to Piketberg before 8, stop at the Caltex on the right. No places open for breakfast until 9! Phone Andy - him and Anne are minutes away - also tapped off when they realized they were early.