Never again, says Dakar rider Stuart
One of the highlights was riding much of the race with Kyle McCoy, who is something of an ultra-marathon legend from the USA.
Stuart Gregory of Port Edward has completed his fifth Dakar and has vowed ‘never again’ and ‘definitely not on a bike’.
In what has been regarded as arguably the toughest Dakar ever, the macadamia nut farmer somehow dragged his body and bike across the finish line – after 11 stages of grueling riding.
The race in the Saudi Arabian desert was held over 12 stages, from January 5 to 19, and covered a distance of around 8000km.
“It’s awesome to finish the toughest race in the world, in the toughest edition in the toughest class,” he said. “But I couldn’t have done it without all the support I received.”
He claims this was his last Dakar, but then admitted that he did say this every year. “I don’t even believe myself anymore,” he laughed.
His regular videos and updates were thoroughly enjoyed by his many supporters, not just on the South Coast but around the world.
Stuart thanked his family for ‘letting him take the time to do this stupid thing!’
He also praised his many sponsors and all those who had helped in various ways.
There were some rough days but also some highlights. He picked up the ‘flu towards the end, something that seems to happen every year.
Then he blistered his thumb quite badly and also sustained two R5 coin size chaff marks on his derrière (so had to ride side saddle for a bit) but otherwise there was no stopping him.
As expected, it was hot, boiling hot. “Definitely not raining like in KZN,” he joked.
He said during the race he went to some dark places at times after some particularly brutal stages.
Yet again, there was never the thought of stopping.
He had some trouble with his air mattress, which affected his sleep. “I think I went through more mattresses than tyres,” he laughed.
One of the highlights was riding much of the race with Kyle McCoy, who is something of an ultra-marathon legend from the USA.
He’s a former American military officer who took up ultra-marathon running when he left the army.
“He was quite good on the rocks and dunes, but I got him on the flats,” said Stuart.
He’s missing his riding mate, but also pleased to be back home with his family and friends.
Will this really be his last? On the bike, probably. On four wheels next year, quite possible.
And maybe in years to come he may be snapped up by a TV channel to provide on-course commentary?
HAVE YOUR SAY
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