Last Ride, Lasting Memories: My Challenge4ACause Journey

"It's going to be tough, so make sure you train." "Spinning classes are great, but do you have a bike? You need to practise on a REAL bike." "Be prepared to fall; everyone falls." These well-meaning, if slightly terrifying, tidbits from colleagues and past Challenge4ACause riders echoed in my mind as I sat in the rattling, rickety bus that was valiantly vibrating its way forward deeper into the Namibian desert.

Not Going to Lie, I'm No Cyclist

I'm not a cyclist. The last time I rode a bike was on Holland’s flat paths, where the word “incline” is inconsequential. But when I heard the announcement that Challenge4ACause was open to daring applicants, my interest was piqued, as it had been during my previous four years working at Rhino Africa. This time, however, was different. This time, this Challenge4ACause, was to be “The Last Ride.”

Knowing this was the final chance to participate, I had to throw my name into the hat and hope for the best.

Pedalling for a Purpose

Challenge4ACause is a unique mountain biking event, one of Rhino Africa's primary fundraisers for its Impact Partners, namely Wildlife ACT, Good Work Foundation, Click Learning and Khumbulani Daycare Centre. 

Traditionally held in Namibia's Damaraland desert, the event challenges riders to cycle approximately 400 kilometres over five days through some of the harshest yet most beautiful landscapes imaginable.

The Realisation Sets in

Lo and behold, I was selected to participate. And, some months later, there I was, on the bus with my fellow riders, 19 of us, two and a half hours into our journey, and 30-minutes from the Challenge4ACause starting point.

As we ventured farther from civilisation, the bus's rattling intensified as the rugged dirt road regressed, taking us deeper into a canyon of jagged rocks. It felt like Mother Nature was reclaiming the earth, preparing to swallow us whole. The landscape had an unforgiving air, and – with three months of intensive spinning classes behind me (I tried borrowing a bike to no avail) – I sat there thinking... "What the hell was I thinking?!"

DAY ZERO – Houston, We Have Landed

Sudden stillness enveloped us as the bus came to a stop. Dusk was approaching when we arrived at SRT Ugab Camp. This was where we would meet our Challenge4ACause support team and spend our first night of six.

As I stepped off the bus, still slightly shaky from the drive, my foot met the ground with a soft, sandy crunch. It was as if we had landed on Mars, and I couldn't help but silently quote Neil Armstrong, "One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind."

Serene Desolation

As imposing as the terrain seemed on our way in, arriving at SRT Ugab Camp, the jagged canyon opened up, cradling the dreamlike, almost otherworldly, banks of the Ugab River.

There was no water in sight – it had long dried up – but shrubs and trees popped up sporadically on the sandy surroundings. This sparse foliage indicated that a river once flowed here and was waiting steadfastly for its return someday.

Lamb Chops and Camaraderie

Sixteen domed tents fringed the camp in a crescent formation. A main area was set up with crucial necessities for camping in the desert – a braai and, most importantly, a bar!

Parallel to this hub of campground comforts was a mobile kitchen, two support vehicles, and, next to them, three rows of mountain bikes, meticulously lined up like soldiers ready to take us into battle.

We claimed our tents, preparing our bibs, jerseys, and playlists for the next day. We all then gathered at the braai and bar area. As darkness fell, the moonlight bathed us in a surreal glow, lifting our spirits as we munched on lamb chops and mingled in the middle of nowhere – wondering what morning would bring.

DAY ONE – Pre-Dawn (Posterior) Preparations

It was still dark the next morning when the symphony of groggy "good mornings," sleeping bag rustles, and tent zips zipping filled the silence. My tentmate, Janine, was chipper and organised while I, a self-proclaimed NOT-a-morning person, squinted with blurry eyes at my brand spanking new cycling bib and the chamois cream that sat beside it.

For those unfamiliar with chamois cream, it's a cream used to reduce friction between clothing and skin. And where does one apply it? Well, for cyclists, mostly – and very generously – on your posterior. Yes... it was going to be a very interesting start to the day...

Kitted, Caffeinated, and Ready to Ride

Kitted out, coffee consumed, bikes fitted, and bum well "balmed," it was time for the Challenge to begin. Our destination? Overhanging Rocks. The distance? 65 kilometres. Our mission? Challenge yourself.

The first day started with a 15-kilometre climb out of the gorge. Many of us opted for e-bikes, but a brave few purists powered on traditional mountain bikes. Even though I had electricity on my side, the way forward was still strenuous.

Beware the "Sneaky Stones"

Obstacles in the form of boulders, corrugation, and sand (that was deeper than it seemed) littered the path. As I navigated the rugged route, something my colleague and friend, Chantal, said came to mind, "Make sure to avoid any sneaky stones – they're the ones that will send you flying!"

So, as I gazed at the assembly of shifty stones before me, I couldn't help but ponder in amusement, "How am I supposed to avoid the sneaky stones?! They're EVERYWHERE!"

Admittedly, once I got the hang of riding on the erratic terrain, it was far less daunting. I learnt very quickly (after a few falls) not to overthink the obstacles – the bike will overcome them. After adopting this mindset, I could enjoy the ever-changing landscapes that unfolded around me.

Detours and Dead Batteries

It was already late afternoon when we finally arrived at Overhanging Rocks. Although, you'll be surprised to discover that we rode into camp not via mountain bike but by 4x4 vehicle.

Long story short, we got lost, it got late, and over 70 kilometres later, most of the e-bikes were dead. But, apparently, this is the nature of Challenge4ACause – going off course is par for the course.

From Heatstroke to Happiness

Overhanging Rocks' mobile camp provided a wonderful respite after a long day cycling through the desert. Everything was perfectly set up – an expansive canopy offering much-needed shade, delectable lunchtime snacks, and a fire broiling and wafting delicious aromas that hinted at a mouthwatering dinner to come. Two makeshift showers stood ready, and the bar was poised to quench even the thirstiest participant.

Dusty and teetering on the edge of heatstroke, an ice-cold beer was exactly what the doctor ordered – followed by plenty of water, of course! That afternoon, we showered, changed into fresh clothes, gathered under the canopy, laughed about our misadventures and speculated who was to blame for getting us lost.

Being in such a remote, pristine place and knowing that I had physically cycled all the way (well, most of the way) to get there, I couldn't help but be in awe of its natural beauty. As the day drew to a close, a few of us climbed to the top of the rock face to watch the sun set, basking in the tranquil splendour of our surroundings.

DAY TWO – Timber! The Art of Falling

The next morning began with the same cacophony of rustling, zipping, and drowsy how-do-you-dos. Today, if all went according to plan, we would ride roughly 65 kilometres to a place called Wêreldsend. This route was familiar to those who had participated in past Challenge4ACause events, but this time, it would be cycled in the reverse. 

We began cycling. However, still a bit drowsy from waking up an hour earlier (I’m not a morning person, remember?), I forgot my mantra from the day before: “Don’t overthink the obstacles – the bike will overcome them.”

Not even two minutes later, there was a sudden, boulder-strewn decline. My mind went into overdrive, and instead of gently squeezing the brakes to cautiously slow down, I gripped them with white-knuckle intensity!

Luckily, I didn’t fly forward head first but stopped dead in my tracks and, almost comically, fell sideways in slow motion like a freshly sawed forest tree. The word “TIMBEEEER!” reverberated through my mind.

One beautiful, blushing blue bruise later, I was championing forward. My goal was to reach camp before my e-bike died. And this day, I was resolute in not needing to be rescued!

Trails to Tasty Triumphs

Our second day of cycling was both challenging and thoroughly enjoyable, offering stunning landscapes dotted with "sneaky stones." The final stretch took us on 30 kilometres of off-road, corrugated jeep tracks, leading us to Wêreldsend – our home for the next two days. And yes, we all made it there in one piece (cycling all the way)!

Wêreldsend differed from the previous two camps, featuring permanent structures including an enclosed thatched boma, shower, and ablution facilities – and yes, running water! While our tents remained our humble abodes, we eagerly used the free-flowing water to wash our gear, ensuring it was fresh for the days ahead.

The highlight of day two? The hamburgers that we were served for lunch! There’s nothing more satisfying than a juicy hamburger (with all the trimmings) after a gruelling, hot, and dusty desert ride. We ate, some napped, and some chatted the afternoon away.

As is tradition with Challenge4ACause, we ended the day by hiking up to the remnants of an abandoned house to watch the sunset. The deserted structure, with its weathered walls and haunting beauty, provided a unique backdrop as we sat together, reflecting on the day's challenges and triumphs.

DAY THREE – Rest, Ride, and Rhinos

The third day of Challenge4ACause brought a new dimension to our adventure. I was relieved to learn we would start the morning a little later than usual, giving us a bit more rest before cycling 35 kilometres to the Palmwag concession. Here, we met up with the SRT guides and spent the day tracking rhinos on foot.

After an incredible afternoon with desert-adapted black rhinos, we returned to Wêreldsend to enjoy good food, plenty of socialising, and yet another glorious sunset.

DAY FOUR – Riding High

Veterans of Challenge4ACause often say that each day gets easier, not because the routes become less challenging, but because you develop what they call "riding fitness." This is something you can't achieve even with months of training on a "real bike." Nothing can fully prepare you for the unique conditions of Damaraland.

I was sceptical about this concept at first. However, by day two, I started to understand what they meant. By day four, all of our spirits were soaring as we cycled through the various landscapes, venturing deeper into the Namib Desert. 

The first 40 to 50 kilometres of day four featured a mix of gradual and moderate uphills interspersed with satisfying stretches of flat terrain.

Then, with Wêreldsend far behind us, we breezed through the final 20 kilometres, a thrilling downhill ride all the way into the Huab River, arriving at Cliff Camp!

Canyon Couture

Cliff Camp offered a completely different but equally dazzling setting. Nestled at the base of a canyon, craggy rock formations rose on either side, cradling our camp in their rugged embrace.

Just as watching each sunset was a Challenge4ACause tradition, Cliff Camp hosted the most anticipated tradition of all: "Priscilla, Queen of the Desert."

The arid, canyon-like scenery was the perfect backdrop for this musical-inspired dress-up event. We were given a dress code guideline that stated, "Think colour, sparkles, and all things fabulous." You can only imagine the creativity that ensued.

I embraced the guidelines, donning a pink sequin dress, a fluffy jacket, and outrageous space-cat tights. Clambering up the canyon, I joined the others at the top. I was greeted by a vibrant medley of rainbow stripes, glimmer, glitz, glamour, feathers, wigs, and a ton of fake eyelashes.

We laughed at the absurdity of it all and enjoyed a carefree photoshoot to capture the moment – all while watching (you guessed it) the sunset, of course!

DAY FIVE – Headwinds and High Fives

Our final day may have had only 60 kilometres of cycling in store, but don’t be fooled! It felt like one of the most challenging days yet. Whether it was the rugged terrain or the anticipation of reaching our next destination, the luxurious Doro Nawas, it was a tough ride.

Don't get me wrong – the route was undeniably spectacular, with scenic valleys, meandering riverbed paths, and numerous wildlife sightings along the way. However, the last stretch on the worst crumpled road imaginable, combined with a relentless headwind, seemed never-ending. Perhaps that made the finish even sweeter!

We finally arrived at Doro Nawas, with most of our e-bike batteries dead or in the red – except for Luke Lalin, who conquered the entire Challenge on a regular bike, truly the last man cycling (like, FOR REAL cycling)!

Despite feeling a tad beaten and battered, we remained undefeated. We hugged and high-fived, celebrating our achievement before enjoying the sumptuous spoils of Doro Nawas.

The Desert Fortress of Dreams

Doro Nawas is a fortress found on a rocky outcrop, complementing the ochres and rusts of the arid landscape. It's the kind of place that would make Mad Max himself feel right at home (if he were royalty)!

With glorious desert views in every direction, you get dramatic mountains and canyons of Damaraland, dry riverbeds, stark savannah plains, and majestic red sandstone cliffs.

Pampered Perfection in Leopard Print

Here, we were pampered and indulged to our heart’s content – a perfect finale to our epic adventure. But Challenge4ACause wasn’t done with us yet. There was one more surprise in store: a "spotalicious" soirée!

For the evening festivities, we donned our wildest leopard print outfits. And after catching yet another breathtaking sunset, we headed to the rooftop of the luxury lodge.

There, a lavish feast awaited. We ate, we toasted, we drank, and we danced the night away under a blanket of a million stars. It was a night to remember, capping off an unforgettable journey.

Lessons Learned from "The Last Ride"

Challenge4ACause 2024, "The Last Ride", was a remarkable experience that taught me some invaluable lessons: 

• First, "Appreciate the Small Things" – nothing beats a refreshing shower, an ice-cold beer, and a juicy hamburger after a hot and dusty desert ride.
• Second, "It's the People Who Join You on the Ride That Make the Journey Truly Special" – facing and overcoming challenges together forges unbreakable bonds.
• And lastly, "BEWARE THE SNEAKY STONES! (but don't let them distract you)" – sneaky stones are everywhere, but if you focus solely on them, you'll miss out on all the beauty around you.

Isn't It Time for Your Own Adventure?

My Challenge4ACause journey is something I'll never forget, and I sincerely hope it's not "The Last Ride." But if it is, and you still want to experience the wonders of Namibia or any other place in Africa, make sure to reach out to us. We'd love to curate your very own life-changing adventure!