A very special thanks to the Chou Family

Just a quick acknowledgment, dear readers, of a huge set of donations to my EA2009 fundraiser and ride by the Chou Family, who are the longtime, match-making friends of Elizabeth's parents and extended family for us. Thank you, thank you, Tai Yun, Gillian, Yuan-Ming, Carolyn, Sabrina, and Matthew! And thank you to Yuan-Chin, Stephanie, and Sean!

Last Year's Enduro Africa Itinerary

Here's the itinerary from last year's ride, which I didn't do but Princes William and Harry did (if that sort of thing is important to you): 

Day 1


Depart from Heathrow for Johannesburg SA.

Day 2

Arrive in Johannesburg and catch connecting flight to the coastal city of Durban. The team will meet up with you and you will be transferred by coach to your Hotel. A few drinks around the pool during the day, in the evening we do the intro speeches, introduce you to the team and your trusty Honda CTX that will be your much loved companion for the next 8 Days.

Day 3

Depart Durban and ride into the famous 'Valley of a 1000 hills'. The route is a gentle introduction to what you will start to experience from Day 5 in the Wild Coast. That night sees the 100 plus riders settling into comfortable accommodation on the South Coast.

Day 4

Today is a cracking ride as the adventure really starts to unfold. We enter the Wild Coast and experience the mighty Mtentu River, Mkambati Gorge and finally after a long day in the saddle arrive at Port St John's nestled on the banks of the mighty Umzimvubu River. The fabulous Cremorne estates in the tropical forest region is our home for Day 4.

Day 5

The Wild Wild side awaits and the Low Road vs the High Road is your decision. Our destination is the coastal village of Coffee Bay and the Ocean View Hotel. The days ride sees us hug the rugged coastline past the holiday villages of Mpande and Presley Bay. A day that will challenge your riding ability with rocky river crossings, muddy forest sections and the fast grass banks next to the beach... an awesome day.

Day 6

The famous section that was savoured and enjoyed by Enduro Africa 2006. The Hole in The wall, The Haven Nature Reserve and the Mighty Bashee river are just a few of the riding delicacy's that you will enjoy en route to Kob Inn Hotel. The hotel has a pub that is nestled on the rocks with the crashing surf setting the scene.

Day 7

A well deserved rest day and the team together with the riders help us to change oils and give the hard working CTX's a once over. The rest of the day is spent at leisure on the beach, in the bar. Its your day so enjoy.


Day 8
The mighty Gorge across the Qora river and the low road for everyone. This route takes us along the coast past the wreck of the famous Jacaranda which is one of many vessels that has been sunk by this stretch of coastline, Waves us to 30 metres have been reported by wide eyed captains on this stretch and the scenery is amazing. A great technical days riding that will have you saying "WOW".We cross the mighty Kei river by motorised ferry and arrive at The Morgans Bay Hotel and surrounding cottages.



Day 9
A big day as we head inland and pass through the port City of East London on our way to the Halyards Hotel situated on the banks of the Cowie River in Port Alfred. It's a 300km plus day and the comforts of the Halyards will be well received.

Day 10

Homeward bound to Port Elizabeth through the Big 5 Reserves of Kariega. It is a wonderful day that offers an enormous variety from Sand Dunes to tar. Tonight we celebrate our achievement and party hard with a closing function of note.

Day 11

Breakfast, fond farewell and a short bus trip to Port Elizabeth Airport. Johannesburg awaits you for your connecting flight to London...

Day 12
Arrive home

Is there anyone out there who did the ride in 2008 who wishes to comment on how it was?

ENDURO AFRICA 2009 GET - TOGETHER

One of the downsides of participating in the UK-based Enduro Africa ride from the States - viz., not being able to join in on the pre-ride reindeer games like this one in Wales: 

---- Forwarded Message ----
From: Enduro Africa <Africa@globalenduro.com>
To: Enduro Africa <Africa@globalenduro.com>
Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 7:01:44 AM
Subject: ENDURO AFRICA 2009 GET - TOGETHER

Hello enduros…

Just a quick note to let you know that riders have been signing up in abundance for the Enduro Africa 09 Get-together on 9th/10th May in Wales. There are limited tickets left and it's on a first come first serve basis so act now if you would like to join us! For Enduro Africa 09 riders this is a particularly important event as it gives you the opportunity to meet the organisers, wider Enduro team and of course representatives from each charity.

Follow the link on the invite below for all the details and how to book your ticket.

Best wishes

Enduro Africa

Global Enduro Limited

10 Argyle Street | Bath | Somerset | BA2 4BQ | U.K.

Work:       +44 1225 33 33 00

Fax:          +44 1225 33 33 17

Web: www.globalenduro.com