The Race to Cradock 2016

The 2016 Race to Cradock comes to an end - it’s been quite a ride. With six start batches this year, the field was nearly double that of the inaugural 2015 event, Even though the event entries were opened to newcomers for the first time, the majority of riders had previous trail experience, being either Blanket Wearers and Whip or Windmill Bearers and proving that this section of the Freedom Trail holds a special place in the hearts and minds of the riders. It surely rates as one of the more diverse and beautiful sections of the trail and the hospitality of the hosts is legendary. 

At the sharp end of the field, the racing was closer this year, with Alex, Anthony, Fjord, Mike and Casper all mixing it up and pushing themselves to greater heights. The lead changed hands as their different strategies played out across successive days and nights on the trail, keeping the followers entertained throughout. The ‘sleep a bit’ strategy eventually prevailed over the ‘no-sleep’ strategy and the sleepmonsters paid all of them a visit at some point during their ride. In the end, a determined Alex successfully defended his title but the chasing pack were closer than ever before - the racing element is becoming more competitive and this bodes well for the future. 

The rest of the riders were a mix of first-timers and returnees, most content to take their time and savour every day out on the trail. Conditions often made the going tougher than expected, with frequent thunderstorms and strong headwinds being experienced by all at some point along the trail. The general consensus among riders at the finish was that the physical challenge remained as tough as ever as parts of the trail were a lot rougher than expected - damage from storms and floods had left some sections unrideable - and the weather remained a constant factor to be monitored throughout the day. For many who had only ever been on this section of the trail in winter, it was a surprise to see how green everything was, the rain having worked it’s magic on the previously drought stricken region. An abundance of wildlife also meant frequent sightings of game and more than one encounter with snakes along the way.    

The support stations are an integral part of the experience and this year was no different - the new addition, Newlands, proving to be one of the most popular of all. The hosts, Pierre-Martin and Azelia were a bit nervous before the event but in the end really enjoyed being part of it and meeting all the riders - now they can’t wait for the next time! The riders had only good things to say about them and really enjoyed their company and fine hospitality. 

Thank you to all the riders who took part and to all the hosts along the trail that make it such a special event - we look forward to see you back on the trail again.

Final standings: