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General |
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It is important that both team members stick together at all times. It is your responsibility to ensure that you stay with your team-mate at all times. Should he/she be in trouble, you should contact the necessary backup and leave him/her only with the express permission of Farmer Glen. |
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First Aid Kit |
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Foil survival blanket, three first aid dressings, five adhesive first aid plasters and sun block. |
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Sun burn |
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Riding Sani2c could be very, very hot. Temperatures of above 40 degrees Celsius could be experienced in the Umkomaas Valley. We recommend the use of very high factor sun block and this should be re-applied during the day. On the other hand it could also be cold and 10 degrees Celsius may be experienced at this time of the year. Protective clothing for these temperatures may be required. |
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Snakes |
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The Umkomaas Valley is home to the infamous Black Mamba. An awareness talk will be given at the first overnight stop. |
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Pollen Count |
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This will be nearly zero in this area at this time. |
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Malaria |
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Although you may experience mosquitoes, this area is NOT a malarial zone and mosquitoes are not prolific at this time of the year. We still recommend a mosquito repellent. |
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Bees |
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Bees are prolific amongst the Gum plantations and farmers place beehives in the area. If you are allergic to bee-stings, we recommend you carry your antihistamine with you. |
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Mud |
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Mud could be experienced on stages so a set of riding glasses is recommended. Eye wash may also be found useful. Tyres suitable for mud and thorns are strongly advised. |
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Water in streams and rivers |
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It is strongly recommended that one does not drink the water from any of the rivers or streams which you will be crossing, as clean as they may seem. Clean drinking water will be provided in the Race Villages and at the water tables along the route. |
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Heat |
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Temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius could be experienced in the Umkomaas Valley. It is important to prepare for this, wear the appropriate clothing and protection. The rules state that you carry a minimum of 3 litres of fluids with you. We recommend that you maintain this level by refilling at all the water tables along the route. One wrong turn in the African bush and you could see you hallucinating with the Mambas of the Umkomaas valley. |
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Medical Evacuation |
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Evacuation plans will be in place to evacuate competitors from remote areas should this be necessary. |
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Responsible Riding |
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Many of the areas through which you will be riding are very remote and to evacuate you from some of these areas will pose a logistical challenge.We appeal to you to ride in a responsible manner particularly on Day 2 after the decent into the Umkomaas Valley. The single track follows the river through the bush for over 3km and there is no clearing for a helicopter. The only option at this point are stretcher bearers who would have hike over 15km to reach you and then up to 5km with you on a stretcher. Not a pleasant task for anyone. |
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Respect to land owners and communities |
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All competitors need to respect the fact that without the support of the various landowners and local communities through which this race passes, this event would not be possible. Please show your appreciation for this whenever possible. |