Never, ever snigger at someone when they admit to have walked up Bushmen's, God Help Me or the Blue Mountain Pass. Now that I have been there, I can tell you that you have not tested your physical and mental endurance if you have not tried the Tour de Lesotho. Ou Kaapse and Wineberg are flat sections in the TdL, and I kid you not. If you are familiar with Hekpoort (Kormorant and NECSA), multiply that with 3, and then you have'nt even started climbing the three major climbs! Take a look at the route profile that Big-Mig posted earlier. You see that first little hill after the start, Ha Ralejoe (1911m)? That compares to Hekpoort! The suffering of the Argus earlier this year faded into oblivion going up Bushmen's Pass, so steep you drive a car up there in first gear.
It was exciting to line up with the pro's at the start. David George, Malcolm Lange, Nic White and all the other hot shots, all there and standing right next to them. Obviously they all dissapeared into the distance a few k's into the race.
The spectators were awesome. Man, do those Basotho's enjoy a show. I felt like a hero! The youngsters treat you like you are some super sportsman and cheer and encourage you as you pass them. Up those climbs they run alongside you and scream with enthusiasim. The people of Lesotho are extremely friendly and my arm was starting to hurt of all the waving and greeting. Another thing I found truly amazing is the courteousness of the drivers in Lesotho. They are extremely considerate and polite. Trucks and taxis pass you with more than enough space to do your cycling thing. And when they pass, they wave and hoot and pack out massive smiles. We can learn from them, we truly can.
All in all it was a fantastic event. Well organised, well run and well worth the effort. God willing I will return to the Mountain Kingdom next year, better prepared and hopefully much, much fitter. And next year, I promise to return with bags full of sweets for my fans...!