I had a chat with Amanda this morning as she was riding out of Methven. Some highlights and lowlights from the first five days:
Day 1
The good
Went out feeling really strong, enjoyed a meal with about 12 other riders at the Tapawera pub. Found a good campsite for the night and slept well.
The not so good
An unhappy stomach on the ride into Tapawera and for the rest of the day. Threw up in the bushes when riding up the hill in the evening.
Day 2
The good
Made it to Boyle in good time to resupply. Kept riding after Boyle, found a nice campsite and got a good nights sleep.
The not so good
Struggled with some stretches of mountain biking, still felt sick and couldn’t get much food down. Took ages getting over a difficult swing bridge, a minor ankle sprain at the end of the day.
Day 3
The good
Not applicable
The not so good
Hardly any rideable track, got a stick stuck in the back wheel on one of the only rideable sections. Spent about two hours trying to re-true the wheel and deal with bent spokes. Track to Lake Sumner had trees down every 20 metres or so, impossible to ride and lots of bike carrying.
Day 4
The good
Much better headspace than yesterday, really enjoyed the afternoon. Greeted by two trail angels at SH73, had a good chat and nice snacks. Really enjoyed lots of the afternoon riding.
The not so good
Dampier range was really tough. Had a cold, sleepless night part way along the Cass track.
Day 5
The good
A nice chat with a TA through-hiker at Cass saddle, and a great ride into Methven. Spent the night in a motel and had two pizzas for dinner.
The not so good
Carrying the bike up Cass saddle, numerous river crossings. Still not sleeping well.