Stage 3 (Caltizdorp to Riversdale)

As I expected turned out to be a fairly easy (if there is such a thing)stage. Rode all way with Dirk and Nico and eventually finished in 5hr47. Those 2 are being quite shrewd in that they are sticking to us like shit on a blanket protecting the 2 odd minute lead they have. The stage was one by my tip to win overall, Raul Paulisson and Jakob Fugelsang. Burry Stander withdrew with an ITB problem. Quite a blow with them in Yellow and looking good.

Had a minor fall, actually more like a topple, bruising my hip and "anoos". Mark was starting to feel better. Although he struggled a bit in the beginning, he came through with his usual strength towards the end.

Our accommodation in Riversdale was giant F up. The Ivan we'd booked with had given our rooms away and left us with a problem of awesome proportions.

Fortunately one of Gawies mates came to our rescue and organised us something in the school hostel. Bit of deja vu being in a school hostel again. Anything to stay out of those tents!

Tommorrow, the fourth stage, is traditionally the toughest stage. Both from a mental and route profile point of view. Oh well as old Faffa says "die hele ding moet in"