‘Barking mad’ Sean’s 4 000km canine journey

He may not be barking mad for cycling 4 000 kilometres with two Jack Russel terriers, but his charity certainly is.
Sean Fraenkel cycled into Dundee with his Jack Russels, Turbo and Tequila, as part of his Barking Mad Charity Ride.
An adventurer, photographer and writer, Sean is raising funds and awareness for the animal shelter PETS (Pet Empowerment in Townships) with his biggest adventure yet, an approximately-4 000-kilometre mountain bike tour across South Africa and Lesotho.
Accompanied by his cute canine companions, Sean rode into Dundee last week to stock up on supplies.
The previous night he stealth-camped at a river 2 kilometres out of the Battlefields area.
Though camping rough can be dangerous, it also forms part of the experience, and is something Sean has become accustomed to.
During his journey, which started in March, Sean has had to rough it out many a time in the wilderness, being as quiet as possible to avoid unwanted attention.
But along the journey he has also had many people provide him with shelter, warm meals and even help with washing his clothes. Some assisted with repairs to his bicycle.
Sean spoke of the great hospitality and support from the people he has met along the way. “South Africans have been amazing,” he said.
The support of the people combined with his stubbornness has motivated Sean to keep going. The uphills are particularly hard, and there are times when Sean can only manage a few kilometres a day, but he always makes it up when he’s rested and refreshed. In Harrismith Sean will take a much-needed break for a few days before getting back on the road. Turbo and Tequila will be given a thorough check-up by a vet, and Sean’s bike will also undergo a full service.
With still quite a way of his journey to go, Sean expects to finish in June. He is loving every minute of the adventure so far.
If you would like to follow Sean’s journey and keep up to date with his progress, visit www.seanfraenkel.com. Donations can also be made on the website towards the Barking Mad Charity Ride.
Sean can also be added on Facebook (Sean Fraenkel) and followed on Twitter (@SeanFraenkel).