In early December Joshua Thorburn competed in the Roof of Africa Extreme Enduro Race in the mountain kingdom of Lesotho.
In early December Joshua Thorburn competed in the Roof of Africa Extreme Enduro Race in the mountain kingdom of Lesotho.
Known as one of the toughest races of its kind in the world, and certainly on the continent, it attracts many competitors, including international professionals.
Josh did not just finish but achieved an outstanding sixth place in the bronze class – beating many riders twice his age and with the first two places being taken by experienced international riders.
Josh has this to say about the extreme event: "The Roof of Africa is the hardest event I've ever competed in and it felt good to see a huge amount of training come together.
I went to Lesotho with a finish in mind and getting a 6th place made the whole experience very enjoyable. Finishing this epic event means the world to me and I look forward to the challenges of the 2015 racing season.”
Taking place over three consecutive days it tests riders' skills and endurance to the limits – many are in the saddle for up to 12 hours and only about 25% of the starters finish.
Regulations specify that you have to be 16 to enter and Josh was one of the youngest riders to compete, first having to complete a gruelling qualifier some many months before the event. His age also limited the size of the engine he was allowed to use in his race bike – a 200cc two-stroke KTM – but this did not deter him.
Finishing the ‘Roof’ (as it is colloquially known) saw him achieve a dream he had entertained for many years. He displayed great skill and courage and on Day 2 was placed in a very impressive second position.
Final times were accumulative and his first day was slower.
Trophies in the Roof of Africa are awarded up to sixth place, recognising the close competitiveness and nature of this extreme sport.
Josh’s dedicated cross-training and regional racing success paid off handsomely, as he walked away with a beautiful silver trophy and big finisher’s medal.
Josh has his competition license to race national enduro events this year and is hoping to gain entry into the Silver Class of the 2015 Roof of Africa later in the year. sport@grocotts.co.za
