health & safety

Health and safety rule #1 is that team members stick together at all times. Your team mate is your responsibility. If he or she requires our help, contact the necessary backup using one of the emergency numbers on the race band you’ll receive at registration. You can only ride without your partner with the express permission of Farmer Glen.

Here are some other important health and safety issues:

avoid sun burn

Use a high-factor sun block and reapplying it regularly. Wear appropriate clothing and a sun visor.

bee aware

Bees are farmed in the area and the insects are particularly prolific in the gum plantations. If you are allergic to bee stings, carry antihistamine with you.

chilly nights and mornings

Cold temperatures can be experienced overnight and early in the morning. Pack warm protective clothing.

drinking water

Do not drink from rivers and dams on the route, no matter how clean the water might look. Safe drinking water is provided at the race villages, and from water tables and tankers on the route. Fill up whenever you can.

evacuation plan

Procedures are in place to evacuate riders from remote areas should this be necessary. A dedicated medical response helicopter is on standby. Read the detailed medical plan will be given to you at registration. It includes instructions to use the MySOS app.

first aid kits

Bring a foil survival blanket, three first aid dressings, five adhesive first aid plasters and sunblock.

hydrate

Temperatures of above 35°C could be experienced in the Umkomaas Valley. Carry a minimum of three litres of fluids with you. Maintain this level by refilling at all the water tables and tanks on route. One wrong turn in the African bush and you could end up hallucinating with the Black Mambas in the valley.

mozzie alert

Malaria is NOT a risk in this area. However, you might experience non-infected mosquitoes so pack repellent.

nothing to sneeze at

Pollen count is almost zero during sani2c.

snakes alive!

There are snakes on the route. In fact, the Umkomaas Valley is home to the infamous Black Mamba – and we’re not referring to those hardcore sani2c regulars here. (Google it for more information.) Be aware and if you see a snake, any snake, avoid it. The good news is, it’s probably thinking the same about you.

tyresome strategies

Tyres suitable for mud and thorns are strongly advised.

ride responsibly

Many of the areas you will traverse are remote, which makes evacuation challenging. For example, on Day 2, after the descent into the Umkomaas Valley, the single track follows the river through the bush for over 15 km. There is no clearing for a helicopter. The only way to reach you is for stretcher bearers to hike the distance and then up another to 5 km once you are on the stretcher. Ride responsibly for everyone’s sake.

riding glasses

Riding glasses and eyewash are recommended in case you experience muddy riding conditions.