The final day's riding involved a choice between the green route and the gruelling red route, comprising no less than six special stages with deep ruts, two river crossings, and a number of very steep and rocky uphills. Understandably the red route of the day was widely considered to be the most technically difficult of the entire event thus far. For those who had already completed the first two red routes, it became a matter of pride and honour - a red route certificate was at stake.

For the skills challenge, a course had been set up on a neighbouring farm. The range of conditions and obstacles facing the last remaining competitors was nothing short of astounding - water, mud, rocks and trees all conspired to produce a course that only the very skilled should attempt. This thrilling climax to what had been a highly entertaining competition would reveal the one rider worthy of the title of Skills Challenge champion. The final scores were:

1 - Hein Kumm won a BMW tour worth R10 000

2 - Gerrit Mocke won a Cape Union Mart voucher worth R2 500

3 - Roger Kane-Berman won a Cape Union Mart voucher worth R1 000

After the prize-giving and certificate ceremony, the party continued with Rob Taylor providing the musical entertainment. The next morning it was a case of packing all the luggage back on the bikes and heading off, secure in the knowledge that they had completed the Great African GS Challenge.

Including the journey to the event, most riders did well over 1 000 km over the 4 day period - that's a challenge in anyone's books. The first ever GAGSC was a historic event and a momentous success. Those who had been part of it have reason to be proud.