The weeks leading up to an adventure race always involve lots and lots of preparation. We are leaving for Abu Dhabi in just over two weeks and already we are planning what to pack, what food to bring, bike tires, etc.
After racing in the enormous sand dunes of the Arabian desert last year, we found out one of our biggest challenges was keeping the sand out of our shoes (duh!) Even our Nike Aire Structure Tirax shoes with Gore-Tex couldn’t keep all the sand out. Mike, Mona, Chris and Gordon had similar issues at their race in Brazil a few weeks ago. My solution is to order some gaiters from the folks that produce the Marathon des Sables desert race in Morocco. I figure these guys must know how to keep the sand out of their shoes. It’s that, or I’m going to order one of those sweet suits they wore in the movie Dune.lank
Hard to image much sand getting through these.
Of course, ordering the gaiters has turned into an adventure of its own. After a few calls I’ve learned that France is 8 hours ahead of Colorado, the company is only open until 2pm local time and they don’t speak any English. So, I’ll be setting the alarm for the middle of night on Sunday evening in order to reach the sales department before they head out for the day. Oh joy…
The weather here in Colorado continues to be warm and dry and the mountain biking has been great. Juniper and I have been exploring some of the country roads in the area and have found some nice dirt roads with good climbing where I can tow the Chariot. The resistance training is great for me and the scenery and cows are good entertainment for Juniper. Hopefully this pattern will continue for a few more weeks and then the snow will come in full force while we are racing, just like last year!
I’m off for some more riding!
I like the Dune suit idea! good luck keeping the sand out, hope the gaiters work!
Hey Sari-
Did you ever get your gaiters figured out? We made some shoes for a couple Canadian athletes for last year’s MDS. If I can help in any way let me know. The big issue with the New Balance ones above is that they extend under the shoe and tear apart instantly. They are made of lycra. New Balance made a complete shoe as well, but it seems to be pretty bulky.
Say hello to Ian, Juniper and Mimi (when she arrives) and have a great race!