HONDA QUEST: Day 9 - The Final Day
Day 9
The final day.
On a bright still morning, surrounded by the craggy Cedarberg mountains, Claude Deyzel one of the two instructors and previous year’s winner of Quest, reminded the contestants during the riders briefing, that on the short 103km leg for all but 2 of them, this would be the last time they would swing a leg aboard their Honda Africa Twin. He invited them to savour the moments and use the ride to reflect on their journey back to Kaleo where it all started, nearly 9 months previously, with the semi-finals Bootcamp.
The route would be the shortest of Quest, as it wound its way along fine gravel roads showcasing the spectacular views of the valleys and mountains of the Cedarberg.
As per tradition, along the way, the group stopped for a private ceremony to say goodbye to all. From complete strangers to close friends in just 9 days, there were more than a few tears.
Finally, the contestants rolled into Kaleo before a small group, including Yuishi Fukuda, President of Honda Motor Southern Africa.
Fukuda San had some kind and inspirational words for the riders before Riaan Fourie, Head of Honda Motorcycles Southern Africa thanked all, especially the riders. Riaan had formed a special bond with the contestants as he too had ridden the entire route aboard his Africa Twin, an amazing achievement given that he, like many of the contestants, had never ridden such extreme terrain.
Finally Hardy de Kock, owner of Specialised Adventures had some emotionally charged words of appreciation for all and then, announced the winning team;
Team #2
Neil Naude’
Brian Harmse
They had edged out fierce competition and were announced the winners of Honda Quest 2020. Both Neil and Brian were richly rewarded and for their efforts, they both get to keep the very bikes they competed on.
Roll on Honda Quest 2021
