Caxton Reynolds Race 2013 winners

“When Jenny and I won ‘The amazing race’, last year, we were elated — for different reasons, I suspected.

“Jenny probably ticked off her bucket list and was ready to leave for the distant shores of Mauritius the very next week.

“I, on the other hand, was relieved that I didn’t break a leg during the race and wanted to savour the anticipated trip for much later.

“Much later it was when we eventually got our ducks in a row,” said Rheeders.

The first decision was about who should accompany them on the amazing trip.

With much deliberation they chose their siblings, Lianne Burns and Milla van Rooyen, and ended up with a foursome that harmonised every aspect of the trip.

At the crack of dawn, on May 3, two Mercedes, with compliments of Budget Car, arrived at their respective homes, to ensure they were on time for their flight.

The aircraft captain sent them each a bottle of champagne, with good wishes.

The island of Mauritius is the tip of an underwater volcano, having spilled its molten lava many years ago and becoming the fertile soil where nature had gone to town, with rolling green hills of sugar cane, surrounded by the most dazzling turquoise ocean and beaches as white as sugar crystals.

“What a beautiful country Mauritius is,” said Rheeders.

They arrived at Flic en Flac, on the Western side of the island, and soon discovered that a reef, approximately 3km away, was the buffer between the beach and the Indian ocean.

They stayed at the Pearle Beach Hotel, one of many hotels along a protected stretch of the beach, with gently lapping waves.

Their rooms were situated on the third floor, with comfortable, sea facing views, where they witnessed sunsets while nursing cocktails.

The most memorable time for Seaton-Smith and Rheeders was spending time in the water.

For Rheeders, her first snorkelling experience was the best, and for Seaton-Smith it was deep sea diving and spending quality time with her sister and friends.

“During the race we learnt so much about our heritage on the East Rand, met amazing people and overall had a joll,” said Seaton-Smith.

With wallets full of cash, sponsored by American Express they were off to the market in Port Louis.

The transport system was something the women had to get used too, having to re-look their need for bus stops, they were picked up and dropped off at the unusual places.

The friends said the markets offered mainly the same goods and prices and required the ability to bargain; something Rheeders could not manage very well.

Rheeders and Seaton-Smith would like express their sincere appreciation to Raynolds Travel, SAA, Thompson Tours, Budget Car, American Express and TIC Insurance for the amazing holiday.