2009 Simpson Desert Bike Challenge - Day 2

As you might know, Dreggsy is riding this charity event. Sounds a bit tough from the second day's report:

http://www.mtba.asn.au/news/?IntCatId=20&IntCont...

Known by cyclists as “Satan’s Velodrome”, the Simpson Desert claimed a further 12 riders today – leaving only one out of 30 starters still eligible to complete 100% of the 580km from Purnie Bore to Birdsville. Yesterday’s event leader, Lynton Stretton from Emu Park in QLD succumbed to the extreme conditions this morning. Riders battled head winds, 40 plus degree temperatures, and very soft sand on some flat sections which made it difficult for riders to finish the stage within the allocated time. However, NSW rider, Alan Keeneslide saw off the challenge of the desert today to become the only rider still in contention to complete the course. Stretton is in 2nd position (91%) with Jason Dreggs (89%), Manly NSW third.

Day two is traditionally considered to be the make or break day for most riders. Riders are still feeling the effects of a draining first day – and find it difficult to front up with legs that are fresh enough to overcome the large sandhills that present on the morning of day two – not taking into account the head winds and soft sand that prevailed today. The question now is can Alan Keeneslide continue at the required level, or will he too fall to the conditions the desert will throw up over the next few days.