The route was designed as a “gravel grind” route, thus maximising gravel roads and minimising the use of tar roads. The route was fast and flat (well, as gravel roads go), and crossed some of the less populated parts of South Africa, including the Free State Province and the Great Karoo.

For this challenge, they of course cycled on our gravel bike, the Tagati.

No outside support was allowed, with our riders only being allowed to make use of en route commercial services that were available to all riders doing the challenge (but NOT transport services or assistance of any type, just before anyone gets clever). The route was set and our riders were expected to cover 100% of the prescribed route in order to complete the challenge. When timing the challenge, the clock started ticking from when our riders departed from the starting point and stopped only when Branko reached the other end. Unfortunately, for Stefan, his trip was cut short just a day prior to the finish line due to a technical issue with his spoke.

There was no prize money, no medals or any memorabilia for finishing the challenge. Only fun, free bragging rights, great memories of the adventure and some good braai-side stories to tell (especially when things went pear-shaped) … and of course a place on the 1000 Miler Challenge Role of Honour on the Massive Adventures website.