After crossing the border last night and coming into Francistown it's time to say goodbye to Manu and Dan. They are heading south towards South Africa where else I'm going west. It was great to have some company especially with those guys, we had a lot fun together! If it works out we might meet up again in Capetown for the final run. But now it's time to ride. After I split up last time with my fellows in Sudan I had my longest day so far. That's one of the best things travelling by yourself: Go where, when and as far and long as you like (or can) - Call it ultimate freedom!
And here the conditions are promising, the country is flat out as far as you can see and for the last few days there's a wind blowing in the right direction. Plus, a storm is building up, what might be in my favour!
The morning is grey and cool, just right so it won't getting to hot. The first 60km I cover in 01:35h, feel's like flying. After 04:00h and 130km it's time for a quick lunch. When I exceed 200km (06:05h) I still feel pretty good and start thinking this could be a good day. The road is straight and flat with the wind blowing continuously strong. Unfortunately the days are short and just when I am about to enter the Nxai Pan Nationalpark it's beginning to dawn. It's not unlikely to encounter animals, especially at night and I fear the elephant but by now there's no way I am going to quit, my legs feel to good and the conditions are perfect. The risk is acceptable and I keep going. Couple hours later, it's pitchblack I get stopped by a ranger who asks me what the hell I am doing out here. I am worried he won't let me continue but I am almost through and after a short explanation I am back in the game. Till now (317km; 10: 00h) I don't really feel tired but hungry, so I stop for a break to cook some pasta and hot tea. The damn stove won't work properly and I am afraid to have to eat cold food but I got it fixed and after an hour hit the road again. Now the legs start to feel heavy and I become sleepy, the kilometer ain't flying by anymore and I need to stay focused. Finally, after 400km and a riding time of 13:13h I call it a day and start looking for a place in the bush to camp.
