At its peak, the flu pandemic had numerous schools closed for a week, university students mourning the death of a friend, and authority puzzled over where to from here. Stellenbosch seemed to be the centre of this swine flu mess, and I live in the centre of that centre. Alas. I seemed to be doing well in avoiding the aggressive flu strain, but ultimately had to succumb to its fangs.

After 17 days I mounted my S-Works Epic for a ginger 1hour spin. I’d spent the better part of 8days in bed, exhausted, sleeping 11hour nights and napping during the day. Like any athlete, I waded through near 20 DVD’s and two books, making up for lost time. The flu caused the onset of secondary infections, which I could have been more alert to, but tried to fight without antibiotics. So in all, it totaled two and a half frustrating weeks.

As opposed to racing Xterra Brazil as planned, I went to the family farm and hibernated under mother’s care. Alas. The plans changed further, as I’ve decided to stay home and let the international racing be for 2009. I’d like the create an opportunity from the illness to take a step back, lay down a significant base block which has been lacking, and build towards a strong 2010 and beyond.

17days and the body forgets; I hopped back on, and felt like a toddler trying walk. One leg going in one direction the other opposing. My posture felt uncomfortable, my lungs felt strained. But the greatest sensation was one of home, of being back where I should be, on the mountain bike.

It was in an isolated part of South Africa, hardly touched by modern development. And as good a venue as any for a “first date” with the mistress after being away… The sun was setting – my favourite time of day – and the changing light changed the colour of jet wind cloud streaks. Really magical. The kind of sight and moment one would not experience unless you did some sport.

So from here I’ll be back and forth on the Epic, Transition and Tarmac, putting low intensity high cadence time into the bag.

It’s good, to be riding again.