Drakensberg dream a reality for choir school teacher
They were extremely lucky with the weather, having only had one day of mist and rain
Drakensberg Boys’ Choir School teacher Belinda Spence has wanted to take on the majestic Drakensberg Mountains for many years. These Easter holidays saw her dream come true after she discovered a planned hike last year already.
After booking her place along with her husband Andrew, she had many months of planning her meals and clothing for the trip.
The excitement was greater than a child on Christmas morning!
A huge thank you goes to the fantastic team of mountaineering guides who actually put the hike together, and supported and encouraged all the way.
Gustav Greffrath from Itchyfeet in Winterton was the organiser of the 2016 Grand Traverse. They started at The Sentinel in the Northern Berg and completed the 14-day hike at Bushmans Nek in the Southern Berg – approximately 240km in total. Gustav was assisted by his wife, Nerissa (who teaches at Winterton Primary School), Khule Mabaso (who is from the Bell Park Dam area and is a trainee mountaineering guide) and Deon Small (from Berg Adventures in Estcourt).
Gustav briefed them each day with his contour maps and pointing out the peaks and rivers. They were extremely lucky with the weather, having only had one day of mist and rain.
Gustav’s skills with GPS and tracking saw them head in the right direction, stay safe and enjoy the experience. Deon assisted with the two re-supply drops. He was the lead guide with the porters and students who delivered fresh food and clothing up Organ Pipes Pass and then again up Bannerman’s Pass.
“It was tough, a real challenge, but so worth every minute. We reached the summit of the highest peaks, we saw the sources of rivers, met interesting Basotho men and saw many sheep and goats. We have a beautiful country! We have a great mountain range right on our doorstep, with fantastic and well-qualified guides to allow everyone to experience the ultimate beauty. I recommend this to everyone. Thank you to the great team,” said Belinda.
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