I was looking forward to this one, Renegades Muster had two previous editions that I had followed closely. It’s an 850km route that starts and finishes in Whanganui, a town on the southwest of the north island. After catching up with some familiar faces we were off and into the countryside pretty quick. The pace was not too hot and there was a big group at the front, the first of the bigger hills slowly spread out the riders. After the resupply town of Hawea at 180km, I was at the front, I was riding well and feeling good.
Just after dark and after 300kms I reached a private farm section that had an accommodation/resupply available. Mojo ( Ian Davidson) rolled in shortly after. I decided to push on, as did Mojo. The section was rugged and remote with some chunky riding requiring extra focus in the dark. I continued and Mojo eventually passed as I was putting on some more layers. I found a roadside farm shed and that was my cue to stop and get some sleep.
It had not been the best sleep due to the uncomfortable ground and feeling cold, and after a few hours, I was riding into day 2. I enjoyed the gravel roads and undulating hills and I was on a mission to reach Taumarunui for a resupply.
The boost of food and drinks propelled me onwards and onto Owhango and the next section was the 42nd Traverse. This was a tough section with steep pinches and some HAB and I was happy to get through here. I then realised I needed to push the pedals to get to National Park before the shop closed at 6 pm. Thankfully I made it with 10 minutes to spare. The next section to Whakahoro was enjoyable as the light drained from the sky. From here I knew there was some climbing and my pace eased, as I had stopped to eat some snacks a light appeared and it was Mojo. Heading into the night the company was good and we rode together for a few hours.
I was starting to drift off and was struggling to keep my eyes open. I told Mojo that I was going to have a lie-down, I think he was surprised, and I watched his light disappear up the road. Sleep did not materialise so I began riding again. I found another spot and once again laid down, I can’t remember but I was maybe 20 mins. I needed a reset as I was so groggy on the bike. The previous night’s inadequate sleep was now catching up with me. I hoped the morning light would bring me some energy and I reached Ohakune at sunrise. I craved coffee but nothing was available, I moved out of town knowing I had about 120kms to the finish. The sun came out and I gradually did feel better but there was not enough power to catch Mojo. A final 30km of headwind was enough to drain my legs and I was grateful to reach the landmark Tower on Durie Hill which was the finish line.
Mojo was there and we had a good catch-up about the race. It was great to ride so much new terrain for me and to have a good battle with Mojo at the front was fun. As always I learnt some things, that will go in my experience bank for future races
