Spent last night in a “normal hotel”, Forest Hill, I think.
Set off on the biggest day of the tour, but we didn’t really know this because the route, distance, surface and itinerary can change by the minute here, not because there is a problem, but just because “we are in Africa” and strict timetables and routines don’t seem to exist all that much.
Most of today was on tarmac…around 8 of the group had never ridden 100k before, and it was hot, and the bikes are super heavy with big chunky (mostly a bit buckled) wheels, so that achievement for those Guys was truly exceptional
At the end of a big, long, hot tarmac chase in 39 degrees, we turned left towards a safari reserve and rough tracks. The road turned to sand and people went down in front of me, unable to avoid I went down too…no real damage just hurt pride!!
We arrived at the first of the tented villages, where we will stay. Posh tents. Our rooms were a mix between a tent and a cabin. We were told that there was no way we were allowed to come and go in the dark without a Masai Warrior Guide (how cool is that), as there would definitely be big game around our tents.
I saw some wildebeest but little else and slept like a baby amidst the wonderful African bush choir but Chris B was stopped on his way back by the Masai and could hear the Lion…..there was a huge lion footprint outside his room in the morning. Others in the group had a similar experience.
It’s mental this…..out of this world, honestly.
It changes you, for the better.
I will come back with a changed view, maybe I knew this.
Joy lives. It does not come from things or stuff or status, but smiles and waves and faces. There is more joy here in one child’s face than in 100 of some of the people I come across at home.
You can chose to spread joy…I want to choose that.
When they stand over whatever box I end up in, I would love them to say… "he brought joy to someone, somewhere”.
Blog Post Number - 4431
Colin Campbell, Chris Barrow, and an intrepid group of dentists will be cycling across the plains of Tanzania from Kilimanjaro in early February 2026. If you would like to support the charity, Bridge to Aid, and this extraordinary challenge, please click here.
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