Diary of the Namibia Desert Challenge 2009 by Lynne Turner
Day 4
The last full day of walking lay ahead. The terrain would be the most challenging of all. Little did we realise we would be scaling mountain ridges, climbing up and down dry steep dry river gorges most of the day. At one stage we climbed a “crocodile back ridge” and the view was just spectacular. We could see a 360 degrees view of the wildness of Damaraland. We decided this was the spot for a Quiet Moment (QM) where we could be still and quiet for a few minutes to reflect on the trek, remember our loved ones and contemplate life in general. For a few minutes everyone sat alone with his or her thoughts. In Kobus’s words “the greyhounds of the soul were running free” in this desolate, yet very beautiful place in Namibia.
After lunch Kobus gave us a very sober pep talk to prepare us for the afternoon’s challenge. He said that the terrain may not always be passable and we might have to turn back and retrace our steps. Following mountain ridges we slowly made our way towards the Ugab River. We went down a very steep river gorge covered in loose rocks and as my foot slipped on the scree and I tried to find a solid rock to hang onto I quietly questioned the wisdom of doing something so risky however I had every faith in Kobus and his gift for judging people’s ability but pushing them just beyond their comfort level. I was very relieved when we all made it down.
For a half hour or so we scrambled over rocks and boulders in a deep river bed, wondering how we were going to get out, until we climbed the next ridge. We realised that in Damaraland that to make a distance of about 50m you have to walk about 2km up and down. Finally, and with huge relief, way down below, we could see camp, but to get there we had to go down another steep hill about 1km and a half long. It was a real challenge for all of us. Once inside camp, there was a tangible feeling of relief and a huge sense of achievement. Everyone was laughing excitedly, thankful for each other’s support and encouragement and the celebratory beers were opened.
