Day 2: Bernburg – Heilbad Heiligenstadt

Day 2 is over, and it shouldn’t be much different than the day before – at least in some aspects. We were mostly out in the countryside, which means less city traffic and better progress. But, we had quite some wind. And because it was strong headwind, stronger than the day before, it almost thwarted our plans today. Almost as consistently as we drove west today, the wind also came from that direction. We been slower today and the six leading rider did have a tough job today. And they did a great job today. At least with cooler temperatures than the day before, that makes everything a little easier.

These are the things you can’t predict with long-term planning, but you have to expect them. And you have to adapt to the situation accordingly. This also meant a bit of extra effort for the six of us riders in the first three rows, not just facing the wind, but also braving it. There was actually a noticeable difference whether riding in the first, second, or third row. And even in the fourth row, some riders said they still had a tough time.

Well, despite everything, the struggle of many of the children we cycle and raise money for is far harder. What we experienced today is difficult. But incomparable, to what seriously ill children go through. Personally, I had this thought over and over again today, and each time it became more important to me to make it through today – for the children.

On top of that, there was quite a bit more elevation gain compared to the previous day. And that won’t be the maximum amount of elevation gain per day. The first 30 km alone today had about 600 meters of elevation gain, which, however, was comfortably spread out over the course. But, the combination of strong headwind and elevation gain isn’t particularly pleasant. Not to mention that we had to run away from big rain clouds for quite a while. Thanks to Nele and our motorcyclists we have some impression from their point of view. But as I said, others are fighting a harder battle, not just for one day or one week. This thought pretty quickly makes you stop complaining.

At least, and that’s part of it, there were significantly more beautiful panoramic views today than yesterday. And some very nice ways downhill. That makes up for it in a way. You can’t always enjoy it because of the wind. But what I finally realised today is the fact that one just has to keep going. Knowing that you’ll get there eventually, no matter the circumstances. To illustrate the beauty of the landscapes I provide some pictures taken during a test ride six weeks earlier. I did a track check to ensure it’s a good and safe way for our group ride. At this time, the weather wasn’t much better than today obviously…

Also new this time was a railway barrier that wasn’t closed while a train was trying to pass. This and other tricky moments were a welcome distraction.

Just like yesterday, the two breaks were a very welcome change. Two more lovingly prepared buffets from our “service team” I could not document today due to organisational activities. Because the highlight of the day had to be organised. Which was a short meeting with my aunt at her place. The same village where my mother grew up as well.

It was a bit emotional driving through my mother’s home village today and briefly meeting my aunt. It was lovely that it all worked out so spontaneously. She gave us a few small gifts from her garden and a donation for our collection box. I, and we, are very grateful for this gesture. I know the region where my mother grew up very well, and with a certain joy and a bit of goosebumps, we drove through a region I’ve been so many times: in Eichsfeld area. A wonderful place in Thuringia. Where we’re staying tonight. Just a few kilometres away from my mother’s and aunt’s home village we stayed the second night: in Heilbad Heiligenstadt.

I highly recommend the Hotel am Vitalpark. An excellent address where we not only received a warm welcome, but also found a truly pleasant, almost luxurious place to recharge our batteries.

It should also be mentioned that we are paying for everything ourselves. In particular the bicycles, every cycling clothes, equipment, night stays and food. This also means that all donations go directly to the fundraising goal.

And at this point, I would like to reiterate the actual goal of the entire campaign. Here you can read more about who we are collecting donations for, how and why, and how you can get involved.

Thank you very much for your interest and for a donation! 🙏

Next day, next stage: Heilbad Heiligenstadt to Marburg on day 3