The Lesotho Sky prologue is traditionally a time trial event in Maseru but, due to an event clash, it was moved to the Semonkong Falls, 110 kms outside of Maseru, as a mass start.
It was a spectacular from start to finish. The Duck and Donkey Tavern hosted the start which spanned over a bridge in the shadows of a towering rock face. Local horse riders led the neutral zone through the town of Semonkong. Once off the 2km road section, the Lesotho terrain treated us to mountain biking paradise.
The trails comprise mostly of donkey and walking trails. The Basotho people spread themselves out throughout the countryside and there is always a herdsman or village in sight. This means that there are endless trails to choose from. It’s the first time I’ve every felt this free on a bicycle. There are countless lines to chose from, all of them fun and challenging. It turns out that donkeys are amazing trail builders.
The first stage has really whet our appetites for what is come over the next 5 days.
At the racing end of the field, Max Knox and Rourke Croeser of team Biogen won the UCI Men’s category 2 minutes ahead of RECM Versluys with Scott Factory Racing taking third. Novus OMX Pro took the stage win in the UCI ladies category beating their only competitor Full Suss Ladies. In case you were wondering; team Bike Hub placed 3rd in the mixed category, firmly in midfield.
Beautiful landscape !