Courtney reflects on the long road ahead
“I’m still feeling it but it was absolutely amazing. Having 6 000 people in front and 6 000 people behind you is great. I got to talk to hundreds of athletes from across the country.”
NEWCASTLE – A little over a week after the Amashova Durban Classic, the Melo Riders were back in action.
Despite some stiff legs and aching backs from 106 kilometres in the saddle, the team took on the St Dominic’s Academy Bundu Bash on Saturday.
Read: Miss Newcastle swings into the saddle
Miss Newcastle, Courtney Smith is thrilled with her Amashova.
“I’m still feeling it but it was absolutely amazing. Having 6 000 people in front and 6 000 people behind you is great. I got to talk to hundreds of athletes from across the country.”
Courtney said the team had far exceeded their limits and expectations.
The Amashova weekend began with an early start to cover the distance to Pietermaritzburg, joining approximately 14 000 cyclists at the start line.
“There was an amazing vibe; determination filled the air as we headed out towards Durban.”
Courtney said the ride was challenging both physically and mentally, but the team enjoyed the encouragement of its amazing crew.
This helped at times when the team was pushing past its own limits.
Also read: Team Amashova takes it in their stride
“This was no small feat. I am so proud and overwhelmed to tell you every single person on our team completed the race.”
Calling it an honour and a privilege to cycle alongside such determined and ambitious people, Courtney said it was emotional to finally reach the finish line.
This was partly due to accomplishment, and partly due to their cause.
“I would like to personally congratulate all members of Melo Riders for completing the race and also to our seconders, for their hard work in helping us along the way.”
With the Amashova done and dusted, Courtney said the real fun now began.
Within the next few months, Melo Riders will implement a sports program at underprivileged schools, and helping the elderly with grocery vouchers.
“It has been a long and hard couple of months but we made it. The challenge was accepted and the challenge was completed.”
Asked if she would undertake such a gruelling challenge again, Courtney gave a resounding yes.
She admitted the team was already in the pre-planning phase for next year, and hoped to begin training soon.
Courtney will next be seen at the Lions high tea this weekend.
“There’s nothing else for this year, but I’m sure there’s a lot coming soon.”
