A small group of Hogs convened at first light outside the newly established Holla Trail Centre at Collisheen Estate, Ballito.
After a few discreet farts, admiring of calves and general banter the Hogs (Mark, Warren, Township Dog and The Hogmaster) set off with Nic (founder of Holla), Pierre and a couple of other very strong riders.
The initial pace inland (up numerous hills) proved to be quite challenging on the cold muscles, Nic’s calls of “if you get lost, keep climbing” didn’t make things easier.
Stunning scenerary
The pain soon became a dull ache as the muscles warmed and the panoramic vistas proved to be every bit worth the effort put in. Scenery was incredible with undulating cane hills broken up by lush river valleys and the occasional farmstead.
30km later, the Hogs and Co had reached the highest point of the ride, some 800m above sea level. The good news was now the fun started. A high speed 2km descent into a beautiful river valley followed. Township Dog, true to form, missed a turn and ended up in the bushes much to everyone’s enjoyment, no major damage just pride…
The next 10km took the riders along the river valley under a thick canopy of trees in a great fast flowing section, grins all round.
But of course with every valley entered there is always a climb out. The final 10km of the ride proved extremely tough on the legs. A final push from Jeremy left Nic cranking his gears to catch the Township Dog (which he did). Warren by now had blown and was pushing his bike, but after a short motivating speech from The Hogmaster got back on the saddle and finished strongly.
anyone for a G&T?
All in all it proved to be a fantastic mornings riding, 58km covered in 4.5 hours with 3,300 calories burnt. Nic proved to be an excellent and entertaining guide as well as great host (cheers for the beer!) and his great knowledge of the routes saved the Hogs many an extra kilometre.
With Holla Trails only 15 minutes away we certainly are on to a good thing. The venue is superb and very family friendly, there is a full bar, great little restaurant and ample place for the kids to play. Will The Hogs be back? Absolutely!
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