Cedar 240 Cedarburg Gravel 5 October 2024

This one popped up on my gravel horizon and was also excited about going to the Cedarburg again. The last time was a 100 miler from Clanwilliam to Tankwa in 2017. Cedar245 Link. There were options for 245 km, 130km and 30 km. I settled for the 245 km route with 3700m of climbing and starting at 4 in the morning.

A lovely drive up to the Oasis resort in the middle of the Cedarburg. Weather was looking good for the Saturday so registration, bike check and early to bed.

A 4 o’clock start with 53 out of 60 riders starting the 245km route. There are two passes to climb and descend in the dark and was extra cautious but it was also fast and hectic. The racing snakes quickly disappearing into the night. After the initial passes it was long and hard all the way to Op-Die-Berg, a small deviation and a long haul to Citrusdal.

The race had some simple water points as it was basically self supporting. We were able to send a box to mid-point at Citrusdal where I put in more hydration, fruit and hot-cross-buns.

From Citrusdal to Clanwilliam, initially long tar then dirt roads following the river and then to Clanwilliam dam. This was around 11 and the temperatures were now in the 40’s. At the first opportunity i swam in the Clamwilliam Dam. After Clanwilliam turning back and heading to Algeria. Here the temp on my Garmin showed 55 deg C. Found a farmer’s water drums and properly soaked myself. From here on every river was an opportunity to cool down reaching Algeria and the long pass out of Algeria 180-200 km. From the top heading for home. With all the cars at the Oasis the corrugations along this section were body numbing!

I finished well with 12h36 elapsed time. Felt strong, devoured a beer and burger in the shade. I was one of 33 finishers and the only Grand Master to finish. They actually stopped riders behind me before Algeria due to high temperatures.

Even with the high temperatures I felt good and at no time felt overcome by the heat. I started my eating regime in the first hour using AMACX gels and bars. I used AMACX hydration throughout the ride. I took every opportunity to bring my core temperature down. all of these critical factors under these conditions.

I loved the ride and proud to have done another big one in a beautiful part of our country. Met some wonderful people and felt very privileged to have been able to ride and enjoy the Cedar Experience.