Ashleigh's Adventure In Africa: Whoa, we're halfway there...

That's right, people! Yesterday we crossed the halfway point of this ride (distance). We've gone 5200 kilometers (excluding the kenya flyover part). HALF WAY. I sang Living on a Prayer (Whoa, we're half way there, whoa-oooo living on a prayer, take my hand, we'll make it I swear, Whoa-ooo living on a prayer..... admit it, you know it). Everyone looked at me like I was a bit loopy (and no one joined in) but it's a tradition for me at the half way point of any great efforts (marathons, kili, this).

To be honest, I can't believe we're only half way there. I mean, when I think about turning around right now and riding back to Egypt, I sort of want to puke. This business of biking is hard. I'm tired all the time, feeling like everyone is getting stronger on the bike and I am actually weaker than I've ever been.

Might just be in a bit of a lull. The half way part can be tough. It's like a midlife crisis, really. PLUS, we're in rainy season and that means...well, rain. Rain = mud and puddles = wet cyclist.

It rained so hard the other night that there was a river running through the camp. A river. I could have fished in the thing. Lucky for me, my tent was on the high ground (because I always take the high ground, being an angel and all). I got a few drops of water in it, but nothing too bad. You should see some of the other folks. Oi.

Then, apparently my tent karma caught up with me because now my entire front door zipper will not close. The teeth are not clamping -- it's like the sides of the zipper have decided to divorce and will never talk again.

This is a problem for two reasons:

1. rain

2. blood sucking mosquitos that enjoy me a little too much.

So, currently I have clothing pins (borrowed) holding the thing together. This was a little effective last night with the bugs, but the rain came in this afternoon. It didn't really matter though, 'cause the corners have decided to open themselves to the elements so the tent has become my portable pool. I am working on a solution for this .... but currently I've only been able to come up with plans that involve killing other cyclists (the ones with the nice tents... can't take it with ya!).

Each afternoon I arrive to camp, usually wet. Then I get my tent up (wet), swap out of wet cycling clothes for wet other clothes. Then later I get into a wet sleeping bag on a wet (deflated) thermarest. In the morning, I get up and take off my wet clothes for my wet (and seriously smelly) cycling clothes, and it all starts again. A day in the life.

Tanzania is beautiful. Really beautiful. I'm enjoying the ride, even though the rough pavement made me want to lose my mind, caused great physical discomfort, emotional distress and nearly caused a riot in my saddle region. We're back on pavement now, and I can relax a little. A very little, because it's quite hilly.

Today was our last full day in Tanzania; we cross into Malawi tomorrow (I am so looking for Madonna). It's always exciting to go into a new country -- especially when there is a free visa involved. Sweet. Looking forward to our rest day in 2 days -- on the beach (let it be sunny please). There's no internet (or anything) there, so I have no idea when I will be in touch again, but it should be relaxing. We're having a beach party (hang over) on Friday so fun stories are about to start.

We have been joined by a new group of sectional riders. They are having a tough time. I feel badly for them because I know how it must feel to come into a group and be an outsider -- AND to feel like everyone is so much fitter. They are struggling and nearly all of the have been on the (gasp) bus already. Too bad, but I admit the off road days were tough for all of us -- no way to start a new ride.

We're sort of nice to them, but not getting too attached.

Let's see, what else can I throw in here before signing off? Well, we had our first cyclist hit by a bus (just on his arm as it past). Nuts. The buses are insane. He's okay (thank god because he's super cute) but it was a scary moment.

The Cools (the film guys who make the videos and are filming a documentary on the ride) are riding this insane double decker bike. It gets loads of attention and I still can't believe that they can ride it on flats, much less up huge mountains. I hope there are some photos of it on the TDA site.

My riding pal Josh lost his EFI today. He's had a bad migraine for 2 days, rode yesterday (still was stronger than all of us) but today it was the end. So sick. It's sad, but the health stuff out here can be serious. He doesn't seem to care (amazing because I was pissed when I lost mine).

And finally, re: race politics, I'll have to fill you in when I have more time (sorry) but suffice it so say there has been yelling, outbursts, poor sportsmanship, crazy behavior and backstabbing -- over a non-sanctioned race without any money for the winner. It's nuts.

And there you have it. Hope to email again in a week or so, but no promises. Much love to all.

xoxo