GCT Intro 6 – 9 August, 2022
The Giant’s Cup Trail in reverse and slackpacking : that sounded good to several Midlands hikers.
* Sleeping in huts? Great.
* Hot evening meal delivered? Super supper.
* Bags carried by landrover and not on backs? Wonderful.
* 4 days hiking, not 5?That’s fine except for 1 long day.
* But in mid winter? Not so sure!
These were some of the responses when Hettie Randall, Organizer Supreme, put out the call to any interested parties.
16 responses and a waiting list.
Ages varied from 26 to 77 but most were in the 60 and 70 year old gogo category.
Hikers:
Nikki Brighton, Kate Brown,
Lulu Dladla, Christa Gadd,
Sharon Hockly, Robert Hockly,
Amy Jacobs, Daryll Jacobs,
Rhona Lang, Amanda McCarthy,
Penny Purchase, Hettie Randall,
Clive Rossam, Erica Clark-Rossam,
Deon Small, Tessa Truscott.
The Team
Deon - hike leader
Hettie - hike organiser
Matthew -logistics, transport
Friday 5 August. Travel day. Midlands to Sani Backpackers Lodge, Himeville.
So it was that 16 eager hikers set out to drive to Himeville. All stayed at Sani Backpackers because of the early start next day. The place was buzzing with French teenagers and a group of African ladies doing a charity walk. There were hot showers, the ablutions were spotless and the rooms comfortable. The duvets on our beds were like puffy marshmallows. Sani Backpackers have a deserved 4 * rating from S.A. Tourism.
We prepared our own dinners in the kitchen and some chose the restaurant. Then Deon Small, our leader and experienced professional mountain guide, addressed us about his role as a leader and our role as subordinates – stay within sight of each other, if you hear the whistle, stop, and other safety tips. We were early to bed in anticipation of our 4 day trail ahead.