April 5th: Krakow, Poland - Ostrava, Czech Republic

Goodbye Poland, hello Czech Republic!

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Julian and Grant knew that today’s riding was going to be a test- 174km of Eurovelo trails and forest riding awaited them but they had no idea of the icy temperatures and the headwind that they would battle with for 133km as they struggled to stay on their bikes and make some kind of progress.

“Mom! The wind made musical instruments of our front wheels! It was really hectic. They were wobbling all over the place.

This is the hardest thing I have ever done.

I have learnt that I have to listen to my body, I can’t ignore the fatigue, or the thirst or the hunger pangs or weakness. I have to respect it.

I didn’t eat at the right times and I paid the price by feeling so exhausted and spent.

I learnt that I have to talk to Dad. I never told him how I was feeling and had he known how awful I felt we could have had more breaks and stopped sooner."- Julian

Lessons and experiences come at the times that we need them; yesterdays was one of essential communication and respecting the elements as well as being more prepared for things beyond one’s control.

The countryside was alive with wildlife and as they rode on the countryside tracks, the Crazybikeguys saw pheasants, reindeers, horses and a young foal that joined the ride for a while on the side of the road while they rode along.

Their first hydration and food stop was just outside of Auschwitz which they rode past on their way out of Poland heading in a Southerly direction towards the Czech border, after 60 km of being on the track, both Grant and Julian were feeling the effects of the cold and the wind and started to take strain.

As they neared the border, interestingly enough there were some slivers of positivity as the day wore on; Polish soldiers doing mine sweeping in the forest wearing explosive protection gear waving enthusiastically as the boys rode by, lots of encouragement from drivers putting on their hazard lights and hooting and farmers waving and greeting them, something that has not really happened until now. Going through the border has bought a different feeling and it is very welcome!

There will be a slight change to the riding plan tomorrow as Julian has a mild case of hypothermia and will need to rest and refuel for the long haul to Vienna in the next few days and as snow and freezing temperatures are predicted, cycling may not be an option.

Well done on an epic effort of 174Kms in such horrid conditions!!

Onwards! We’re behind you every step of the way!

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