We never know what the day will bring when the TdA camp wakes up but today was beyond all imagination.
The morning started beautifully as the dirt road gave way to tarmac. Crisp bue skies, rolling hills, and a stiff breeze greeted my fist intended full riding day. Kari spent the day on the truck, battling a stomach bug and helping to dig out the truck which was stuck in the sand at camp.
30km from camp the riding day changed unexpectadely. Three men came out of the bush, seemingly friendly. But when two of the men charged the road, yelling and holding a spear and a large rock, I sensed they were not friendly. As I swerved to avoid them, one man launched the rock and it was a direct hit to my left scapula and ribs. The spear then sailed over my right shoulder and a shot was fired. I stayed on the bike and picked up the pace until I reaced the next rider forward. We cntinued for 5km, picking up riders along the way, until we found a semi clear area and friendly locals to help. The gunshot alerted the riders behind me that something was wrong. Six of them stopped together to assess the situation. while they were stopped the men reemerged from the bush and robbed them of food, water and money. They are all ok.
The Kenyan Wildlife Service later told us that the severe drought has caused farmers to resort to these desperate measures for food and water.
The TdA staff and riders worked together as a great team to quickly understand the situation and respond accoedingly. The racers stopped and riders piled into vans to go to the evening camp.
I now have a Kenyan hospital registration card ad xrays (damaged ribs bruising ad a small puncture hole). i wont be riding for a few weeks but I am looking forward to a fresh day tomorrow.
9 March – Local Interactions
March 10, 2011 by kktourafrica
Glad you are all OK. Prayers are heading your way.
You have immense courage. I am glad you are okay. Heal, and ride strongly. — Jim
Wow, I’m glad you guys are okay! So sorry to hear that you will be off the bike for a few weeks.
Danielle
Hi Kendra,
I am so sorry to hear about your rough encounter with the natives, but so releved that you are OK. Obviously these folks did not know they were up against one of the US Navy’s finest!
I hope you will recover rapidly and be back on your bike soon. Maybe you and Kari should spend a few days resting in Nairobi with Kari’s ant.
We also did not know that Kari had not been well. She did not say anything about that when she called the other day. But maybe it was lucky she was in the truck as I guess you could have been riding together and that could have complicated matters.
So please you guys, look after yourselves. I believe you are past the most dangerous part of the rout, but Africa is full of surprices and very unpredictable. We will be thinking of you. Have a great stay in Nairobi.
Love to you both,
Ole
I am sorry for this incident. Thank God you and the “Six” are doing ok. Hope you recover well and soon. I have followed TDA for years since I plan to ride it one of these days. This has never happened before and should serve as a wake up call. Poverty is every where in Africa. My fear has been the extremists. Although seemingly safe Egypt and Sudan had been my worries NOT Kenya. Religion is pretty much used as a weapon in Africa.
Please take time before you jump to your bike. In the mean time enjoy the truck ride. My prayers are with you and every one at TDA.
And you’re riding to raise water for Africans. I guess they didn’t know… or couldn’t wait. I’m so sorry you’re missing more riding from it. Other health better, though? Keep up that encouraging smile for everybody.
We are sorry for the beastly act, but every good work comes with some obstacles. You cannot imagine resources raised via exersices such as the one you were participating in when you met the unfortunae act, are meant to assist the same people who unlished the act on you. But it is always good not to give up till you fufill your target.
Hey Kendra,
Am so sorry to hear of your encounter – especially as it happened in my beautiful country. It must have been quite frightening for you, but you seemed to have handled yourself extremely well and bravely – well done.
I hope that you will be able to continue the trip and we are pulling for you. I know that Judes and Tony will cherish you and Kari with love when you are in Nbi – they are wonderful people and will do anything for you. Don’t be afraid to ask!
Enjoy the rest of Kenya and onwards. We know you will keep smiling.
Best wishes – Mrs. V.
WOW – I’m so sorry to hear that you were involved in the incident but oh so glad you are OK. Good to hear that you plan to stay engaged with the tour …
David
Kendra! So sorry to hear about this but glad you are ok!!! Take care of yourself and keep up the positive and strong spirit!
“Local Interactions”?? Kendra, that’s an incredibly forgiving title to what happenned to you. Your optimism and positive attitude are amazing! I hope your injuries heal quickly and you’re back on the saddle soon. And don’t forget to blog from your new/temporary vantage point.
Hi Kendra,
I admire your optimism and courage! And I hope you recover soon and can continue on this amazing eye opening trip.
Kenya is an extraordinary country, as I remember it, with extremely hospitable and friendly people. Cheering children and Warm words of welcome everywhere (Karibuni sana!). Most Kenyans take life with a big smile and great optimism, but for some the struggle for survival is though, living in despair and poverty. It is beyond our imagination that people could do such things for a little bit of water, food and some money.
It seems you are keeping the spirit up! Keep going!
I look forward to hearing the rest of this adventure,
Griet Neukermans (Belgium)
Phew… Talk about the road less travelled!
Glad to hear you’re OK Kendra. Look after yourself.
David
Wow that sounds rough.. glad everyone got away though. Sorry to hear you cannot ride for a while!
I am just catching up, so I hope you are better already.
I somehow missed this post earlier – what a scary experience, Kendra! I’m glad you’re ok and back in the saddle now. I’ve been following the blog ladies – its so inspiring! So proud of you!