While apparently controversial, my return to Cape Town was for good reason, and hasn’t quite been the R&R bail out many think. Primary concern was equipment – as heading north into Botswana with equipment in the condition it was did not sit too well with my mental game.
After several calls, many e-mails and a few store visits, everything seemed on track to ensure my equipment was all good for the final stage of the gear review and journey. Being able to power my phone & SportsTrack unit, along with staying dry, will certain put a smile on my face out there, as these were not happening in the final days into Kimberley.
Because there are a few close calls on equipment too, I am returning with two items in some categories (trekking pants, UV shirts & wide rim hats, for example) so trying to squeeze equipment into the pack has been a challenge. I’ve also packed additional MuleBars and Red Bull, putting further pressure on space.
The BIG news of the week took a fair amount of time to sort out, but is certainly well worth it! I am glad to welcome Olympus and SanDisk as official sponsors! This is a giant step forward for my future plans, as they share my vision and I was instantly put in touch with their advertising and PR agencies… which meant I was to be even more pressed for time on Friday.
Feeling like a two year old having just opened all my Christmas pressies, I headed home and swung past the new Red Bull offices to say HI while in town and collect some Wiiiiiings. It was sad to hear that Lorin is leaving as I have really enjoyed our dealings, while limited, but she is excited about what the future holds so I wish her all the best and hope that we can stay in touch.
I continued to pack and resolve gear issues, whilst keeping the big ad agency meeting in the back of my mind – no pressure.
Friday came way too quickly and I rushed off to discuss the Olympus relationship, and I think I left five people a little speechless. So much info in such a short space of time! But I believe everyone is equally excited and the future is looking bright…
Scary news though – Sean called & told me he’d broken both feet! What? He fell off a ladder and broke both his heels, and so is stuck in a wheelchair for quite some time! That is scary! Shows just how quickly things can change. Here’s wishing you a speedy recovery Sean… looking forward to a run in Newlands forest when I get back (especially seing as you now live in CT).
From there it was off to the V&A Waterfront for the BRIC 25 hour Cyclathon, an annual event held in aid of Habitat for Humanity. Sadly, unlike the past two years, I was not going to be cycling, but since I had committed last year to ride and support I made every effort possible to be there and spend time with them and support where I could.
As always, the teenagers put on an awesome event which was well supported by Cape Town. I spent the night on stage and apparently slept like the dead – they couldn’t believe someone could sleep so deeply through all the noise! Clearly I was one tired guy!
Thanks to everyone who visited, donated and contributed in anyway possible – it is greatly appreciated! From what I’ve heard, raffle ticket sales alone raised R40,000 – that is awesome! Already looking forward to next years event.
Sunday was run run run to get everything sorted and I am happy to say that, while my left heel is still not looking too great, I am ready to hit the final 1250 km to Beit Bridge – let’s do this!
