[...] over to this area. The area is known for its banditry and after reading Spencer Conways blog at http://www.Africa-bike-adventure.com who got shot at on his motorcycle (so much so that he had to abandon his bike for a time) we decided [...]
[...] over to this area. The area is known for its banditry and after reading Spencer Conways blog at http://www.Africa-bike-adventure.com who got shot at on his motorcycle (so much so that he had to abandon his bike for a time) we decided [...]
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What a lovely blog. I spend hours on the internet reading blogs, about tons of different subjects. I have to first of all give kudos to whoever created your theme and second of all to you for writing what i can only describe as an post. I honestly believe there is a skill to writing articles that only a few posses and frankly you have it. The combination of informative and quality content is definitely extremely rare with the large amount of blogs on the internet.
Ooh dang! i just typed a very long comment and as soon as i hit reply it sprang up blank! Please tell me it functioned correctly? I do not want to sumit it all over again if i do not have to! Either the blog bugged out or i am an idiot, the previous option doesnt surprise me lol.
Spencer having a well earned break and taking in Africa’s beautiful landscape…..
jackpot said: 2010.03.25 18:43
Hi Spencer, me and Alan thinking of you, hope you are well? Where are you now?
admin said: 2010.03.20 12:26
spencer – hang on in there bud! it’s downhill from now…jdx
Birgit said: 2010.03.18 15:37
Hi Spencer, I hope you are still ok and enjoying the wonderful different african countries. Capetown still holds me, and I try to find a cargo ship that brings me and my bke to ghana (not that easy). I’m the german girl you met in Spingbock, if you like you can have a look on my blog, http://www.jamboree.rtwblog.de,
Maybe we’ll see us in the northern part of africa, take care! Birgit
Wallace said: 2010.03.16 16:02
Awesome trip…one which i hope to do as well one day…unfortunately africa is a bit of a hectic place
at times, thank goodness you’re safe though….you should hopefully love south africa, i think …there
are lots of friendly people here but one still has to be vigilant though…best of luck for the rest of your
journey and ride safely.
Wallace, Souht Africa
admin said: 2010.03.11 16:52
Please refer to older comments for updates. Admin
admin said: 2010.03.11 16:40
Looks like problems with the site. Recent comments are going into the older comments area.
admin said: 2010.03.11 16:39
Michael said: 2010.03.11 16:34
Alun said: 2010.03.10 20:49
Hi Dude,
Hows it going. I tried to get Lois telephone number yesterday, seems i have deleted it oops! so had to resort to emaiiling both Lois and Austin. Lois emailed me today to say you had managed to get her number.
I really hope you are well and pleased with what you are achieving.
I have started a job 3 days a week in a motorbike shop, part e-commerce part sales, like being a kid in a sweet shop, only downside I want every bike in the shop.
In the process of getting the plans all sorted for the Yamaha XT meeting in Hay on Wye 14-16 May.
I am looking forward to seeing you and your wonderful parents again on your return.
Keep safe and more power to your throttle.
Best wishes
Alun
Feaya,Livi ,Lidia xxxx said: 2010.03.08 14:16
helooooo Spencer its Feaya (your amazing daughter) and Olivia and Lidia (her very best friends)…..we are in ict and we are very bored ): hope everything is ok we miss you keep going and try not to get shot lots of love Feaya,Olivia and Lidia xxxxx
admin said: 2010.03.08 11:14
Spencer said: 2010.03.08 11:06
Hello everyone. At present stuck in Namibia trying to get a visa for Angola. Proving a bit of a nightmare. Met up with Carl, the Canadian who helped me out with the probs in Kenya. He is backpacking through Africa and our paths have crossed again. Good to have some company and to face the difficulties together. I can see that the next few weeks are going to present more problems as going through Angola and DRC is not going to be easy. I will add something more interesting in a few days.
Spencer
jackpot said: 2010.03.05 15:21
Hi Spencer, not heard from you in a wee while, are you still in SA? Hope you managing to get all your paperwork organised? Take care. Jax and Cabs
Andrew Paterson said: 2010.02.28 09:25
Spencer
I was shocked to read about the shooting incident but glad that you are ok and putting it behind you. The Ngoro crater trip sounded fantastic and I look forward to seeing the photos when you get back.
Sorry to have missed you in Swaziland but I am still in Pakistan trudging uo and down the mountains of Kashmir and relying on ‘onedrop’ to keep me on the straight and narrow.
Take care old man
Andrew Paterson
jackpot said: 2010.02.26 00:25
hi spanner are you going up past port noloth alexander bay nice pub there any way pick me up some diamonds on the way just keep ur eyes on the ground!!!!!!!! cheers bounce
Bill Barton said: 2010.02.24 16:39
Well Done Spencer,
Very glad to see you have arrived at Cape Town Safe. Halfway there now I hope the other half will not be too eventfull.
Lets hope the roads get easier for you. I will keep an eye on your progress and contact you again
Regards
Spencer said: 2010.02.20 13:21
Hi Every One
HALF WAY THERE!!
Just got to Cape Town and about to find a camp site for the next few days as I have to arrange for visas into Namibia and Angola. Pretty hectic here but all OK. More to follow shortly.
Spencer
jackpot said: 2010.02.20 12:49
hi Spencer, glad to see you are well and in Swazi – soooo jealous! Me and Cab been havin our own adventure – house burnt down last week, we are all fine. You know us, don’t do anything in small measures! Will your SA interview be on tv there? Will tell the family to look out for it. As I said before, give our love to all the gang and have fun.
David O'Connell said: 2010.02.19 22:01
Hi Spencer,
Of all the people I know, you are certainly the man for this adventure. I am very proud of you man! Keep strong and safe…wow what a cool book to write. Please give our warm well wishes to both Simon and Lucinda. We think of you all often.
Take care,
Dave O’C, Amanda, Olivia and Ella
trudy said: 2010.02.16 22:25
HI there, where are you at the moment. We all had bl…. snow again , you chose the right year to go away. Hope it is all going well and that your having a great time. Snowdrops are out so spring must be on the way, we hope. Biddenden is missing you, Millie still carries sticks home, so I collect some from your door for starting wood, what a well trained dog. Kathie came around today, had a fun time, she is well so is Jas. All missing you. Take care and have a great time. xxx
Julie and Tom said: 2010.02.13 15:22
Well done for reaching Swaziland. Now we really can imagine where you are…..You are missing lots of snow here: not easy to get out of Mansion House Close!
Tom says, have a drink on me at the Whynot? !!!
Spencer said: 2010.02.11 18:41
Hello to all
I have made it to Swaziland, my old home, and it feels great to be here. Have made contact with Simon, my brother, and his daughter, Ysa, who was overjoyed to see me and couldn’t stop crying when I pitched up to her school unannounced. She didn’t recognise me till I took off my helmet and then she jumped into my arms crying ‘Uncle Spencer, Uncle Spencer!’ A fantastic welcome. I have met many former freinds and will be going to my old school,Waterford, tomorrow to give a talk on my journey so far. Off to Joburg for a TV interview in the next few days and then back to Swaziland as I have to stay for Ysa’s birthday. She insists.
I had to deviate from my course as some border disturbances going on in Zimbabwe so travelled south from Malawi through Mozambique. Had to pay $100 for an entry permit!!
There will be some new photos on the Gallery section soon as I can send some through from Swaziland. It has been difficult to do this before. Sorry.
Please keep in touch and send messages and pass on info to others.
Thanks Spencer
Jackpot said: 2010.02.10 17:55
Hi Spencer, sounds like you are having a much better time now? Didn’t realise you were going thru Moz, I have a friend who has a lodge, with campsite, in a place called Zavora, if you needing a place to stay, you should stop off there. We are going to be there on 13 July with 9 other Scots people – should be a drunken madhouse!!! Pity we couldn’t have met up, wonder where you will be by then? Please remember and give our love to all in Swazi (Mike, Mary, Pollocks and all the gang). Take care! Jax and Cabs
Spencer said: 2010.02.07 19:20
Hello Everyone
Make sure you read Shaun’s ‘article’ on the blog. Page down a bit till you come to it. It’s really worth it.
Spencer
admin said: 2010.02.07 10:22
Jilmislinunda said: 2010.02.05 23:36
Very often I visit this blog. It very much is pleasant to me. Thanks the author
admin said: 2010.02.07 10:19
trudy said: 2010.02.06 18:04
Hello Spencer, it has taken some time for me to know what Blog meant!!! We are thinking of you all the time and are with you all the way, googeling away, seeing what roads your on.So pleased your well and survived all that shooting horror. Can’t wait for you to be back and to hear all about the lovely people you met, and the beautiful countries you have seen. Take care and enjoy our splendid world. Much love and hugs from the 3 H’s.
Rob Gordon-James said: 2010.02.05 23:39
Hi Spencer
A bit remiss not to have checked out your website recently – very shocked to read about the recent ordeal, and very relieved that you are ok! Keep your chin up and take good care.
Best wishes- Robert, Kat, Henry and Floss
Shaun Fenton said: 2010.02.05 21:55
Shaun, filming Spencer around Africa [Diesel Films] – Notes from Kenya and Tanzania 02.02.2010
I met up with Spencer in Nairobi to retrieve his diary camera footage and do some additional filming. He was staying at a place called Karen Camp run by a colourful character called Duggie. Karen Camp is a regular stop over / repair shop for Over-landing outfits, so there was plenty of activity with drivers, vehicles and eager travellers as they prepare for trips all over Africa.
Spencer was in good form and recovering fast from the shock of the shooting incident in Northern Kenya. The Tenere was back on the road, repaired by a guy called Rick, who restores old bikes found in sheds and garages all over Kenya – he had all sorts of machines from Indians, Enfield’s, BMW’s and Moto Guzzi’s. As spare parts are hard to get hold of, Rick managed to straighten the Tenere’s rear rim and re-spoke, weld a new lug on the rear calliper and fabricate new fixings for the panniers which had all been shot away.
After a couple of days filming in Nairobi, Spencer was keen to get back on the road so we decided to head off to Arusha which is just over the border in Tanzania. Fortunately, while at Karen Camp, Spencer had met laid-back Aussie Jim Wales. He’s an experienced over-lander who is now running a logistics business which operates throughout the continent. When asked if he could help us out with the filming for a few days he said ‘f**k ya, but I’ve got to be back in Nairobi to get married on Tuesday’
It was good to leave Nairobi – a city of contrasts. On one hand you have the palatial suburbs with decadent properties and servitude, a throw back to a colonial era and on the other hand poverty. Nairobi’s central slum called Kibera is the second largest slum in Africa, housing over 1.2 million people, all crammed into approx 1 square mile – shocking.
After a couple of hours on the road, which could change from newly laid hard-top to dirt and pot holes without warning, we arrived at the Tanzania border. A typical chaotic scene of heat, dust and confusion, as locals and seasoned travellers pushed and shoved their way through the bureaucracy. To add to the mix, a constant stream of 4X4’s would deposit khaki clad safari tourists – reluctant to step out of the safety of air-con, they were forced to rub shoulders with real Africa and look black authority in the eye. Strangely, US citizen have to pay twice as much for a Visa than any other nation – a poignant charge for wealth and privilege.
Another hour on the road and we were clear of people, shacks and roadside vendors and had entered open savannah, for me this was the picture that typified central Africa. A ribbon of tarmac stretched ahead striking a path through the vast grassland, Acacia trees with their synonymous shape were randomly dotted on the landscape, standing defiant against heat and drought. In the distance Mt Meru with its crater shaped peak marked our destination, Arusha, and to the east we could just make out the snow capped Mt Kilimanjaro.
Entering Arusha at dusk we headed straight for a place called Maasai Camp, on the outskirts of town. Spencer pitched a tent and Jim and I roughed it in a couple of basic rooms. After a couple of beers an enthusiastic decision was made to visit the Ngorongoro Crater, which was about a 3 hour drive from Arusha. Ngorongoro is one of nature’s phenomena – formed between 2- 3 million years ago the crater is 100 square miles in area, providing a self sufficient ecosystem full of herbivores and carnivores which have been eating, breeding and dieing there for hundreds of years.
After a sleepless night at Maasai Camp, which unbeknownst to us turned into the local rave till 5am, we set off bleary-eyed to Ngorongoro. The African roads or should I say drivers are responsible for some horrific accidents and sure enough Jim and I witnessed a near fatal incident right in-front of our eyes, as a car over took us, lost control and cart- wheeled 3 times before landing upended in a ditch – I was hesitant to approach the scene of such carnage, expecting lifeless mangled flesh and bones. But, miraculously the driver had hauled him self out of the wreckage and was immediately on his blood-soaked mobile phone, 30 yards away thrown from the car his passenger was sitting up dazed but conscious, lucky to be alive. It was a messy reminder of the dangers of travelling and what Spencer is exposed to on a daily basis.
Another hour on the road and sadly Spencer broke a rear spoke, not to try and push our luck we abandoned the bike with some friendlies and continued in the truck. Unlike a UK 4X4 that suffer the odd speed hump and baby sick, Jim’s truck had seen it all, it had bumped, bashed and crashed its way through thousands of miles of African roads. However, although sturdy and robust it decided to over heat as we made our way up the steep incline to Ngorongoro. Jim being resourceful immediately commandeered my precious drinking water and set about pouring several litres into a very thirsty Nissan Patrol. I became a little concerned as I saw the last of my Cholera, Typhoid free H2O disappear into the metal belly of the Nissan. It was alright for the well seasoned Jim and Spencer, they had spent so much time in African could drink the local ditch water or happily enjoy a glass of each others urine.
By the time we got to the entrance of the conservation area it was too late to make the drive into the crater, so decided to enter but make camp in one of the designated camp sites on the rim of the crater. After a little filming before we lost the light, Spencer showed off his bush tucker skills and cooked up some chicken and beans on an open fire – a welcome feed and I was impressed by his hot rock cooking technique. As we enjoyed a bit of amateur star gazing washed down with a dusty bottle of Brandy, I suddenly noticed 2 huge white tusks appearing from the darkness. As my eyes adjusted, a massive bull elephant nonchalantly wandered into our campsite and silently meandered passed us within 20 feet before disappearing into the undergrowth to snort some vegetation – although this was a surreal moment for a chap from Bethnal Green, I do believe that even Spencer and Jim were a bit in awe. Strangely, one of them elected to sleep in the truck that night, leaving me out as bait – nice.
Next morning, Jim got us up at stupid o’clock, well before sunrise to make the descent into the crater. The best time to witness any kills was early morning as most of the predators are active over night. After a little Aussie negotiation between Jim and the gate-keeper, we were free to enter one of the most remarkable places of natural history in the world. As the mists cleared, Zebra, Wildebeest, Gazelle appeared in numbers. A solitary Hyena sniffed the air scavenging for a scent of a kill, a group of foxes darted through the long grasses alert and suspicious of noise and smells. With the mist burning off rapidly even more of this extraordinary place was revealed, a distant lake with flamingo, a watering hole with Hippo, a pair of black Rhino and a vast herd of Buffalo. Having been brought up on a rich diet of Attenborough I could not help but hear his rhythmic enthusiasm as I gazed at this wildlife cocktail. We drove around the many tracks that criss-cross the crater in search of big cats but only got a distance glimpse of a Lion cub high up on a hilltop. Ngorongoro Crater is extraordinary and bizarre, I highly recommend it if you’re in that part of the world.
Our time was up in the crater and Jim had a 12 hour drive back to Nairobi for his own wedding scheduled for the next morning – after retrieving Spencer’s bike, he deposited us back in Arusha and set off with no sleep, a packet of biscuits and a water leak. He made it.
Jim very kindly put us in-touch with his mate Chris Gee who runs an overlanding outfit which has a base in Arusha called African Trails (africantrails.co.uk) Mark Pearce fellow countrymen of Jim’s who was looking after the place took us in with the customary ‘no worries mate’ and offered us the floor in a shed which we could share with the resident rat and a couple of lethal biting spiders.
After a restless night’s sleep with the rodent, Mark lent us his pick-up so we could meet up with Ronnie Bender of Adventure Bike Africa (adventure-bike-africa.com) who subsequently put us in-touch with Per Bjerre of Dustbusters (dustbusters-tz.com) so we could get Spencer’s bike checked and replace the broken spoke.
Per has become a bit of a legend in the area and is a phenomenal off-road motorcyclist. He’s not only built up a reputable adventure motorcycle business since 1991 but has also built his own motocross track in his back yard – obviously he wins all the races. Per was more than happy to check over the bike, fix the spoke and give Spencer the confidence that although the rear rim needed replacing, it would probably make it to SA.
With only one filming day left, Mark and his Aussie spirit guide took us out to film the sun rising over Mt Kilimanjaro which was apparently ‘very cool’ as most of the time it’s covered in cloud. We attempted to round up some wild Zebra for the shot but strangely they weren’t interested and they buggered off to be black & white somewhere else.
The road beckoned for Spencer willing him on to Malawi and Mozambique, where as I and a vomiting child took a 6 seater Cessna back to Nairobi, from there I was relieved of my fluids and rode a virgin back to Blighty.
Over and out, Shaun
PS: If you’d like to financially contribute to the filming of Spencer’s epic journey – we would be delighted. Please contact us via the website.
Veronique said: 2010.02.05 21:23
Hi Spencer,
Mum and Dad, Monique and Malcolm, want you to know that they’re thinking of you often and that they are very relieved you made it through your terrifying ordeal, as are we.
Let’s hope that was the first and last! We’re all following your progress avidly and wishing you well. Bet you have no idea what a fantastic geography lesson my children are getting -which continent next??!!
Stay safe,
Veronique and family xx
Feaya said: 2010.02.05 21:03
hey daddy
i miss you and i hope all is going well ! i know your fine and keep going as fast as you can . Are you having a good time? i wish i could come on the back of the bike im really proud of you and i miss you lots
Feaya xx
Bill Barton said: 2010.02.03 16:12
Hi Spencer,
Glad to hear that all is now well. You have been through a very rough time.
I still look to see how you are getting on.I have not forgotten about meeting up with you when you arrive back in Europe and travelling back with you . If any one else would like to travell with us please let me know on bill.barton@boc.com and I will see what we can organise.Hear from you soon.Bill Barton
Andy Bosse said: 2010.02.03 08:50
Hey Spencer,
Glad you are still Ok after the shooting incident. I hope you don’t have any more bad experiences like that. Stay safe and will see you when you get to South Africa.
Cheers Andy Bosse
Spencer said: 2010.02.01 18:57
Hi Every One
To Lance, George, Andreas, Jax, Cabs, Frank, Alum, Dave O, and etc etc.
Quick update. Am now in central Malawi and made great progress in two days, 1500 kms. All OK and heading onwards tomorrow. I tell you things are not cheap here. More in the next couple of days.
Feeling fine Spencer
lance said: 2010.02.01 17:55
spencer u moppet
didn’t u learn anything in southern africa? ie how to dodge bullets??
good to hear you’re back on your pegs again.
bumped into some of your swazi history in mali. ja, it’s waiting for you when u get to swazi:)
promise i won’t tell a soul about ouzo in addis.
keep trukkin bro
lance
Good to catch up the other night and hear of your adventures. Bloody glad it was you rather than me on the Moyale road… Don’t fancy my chances of being able to escape as quickly as you. Hope you made Malawi ok – at that rate you’ll be able to lap me.
Some recent comments have been logged into the older comments section. To keep in present comments add them in POST Kenya to Tanzania.
Thanks a lot and please keep the comments coming as Spencer looks forward to the contact from you all. Please encourage friends and others to add their comments. OH SO Grateful
Michael
Spencer said: 2010.01.31 15:29
Hello from Spencer
Sorry for the lack of updates but it has been rather hectic here trying to get out of Kenya. Shaun has been here for a week to do some filming and take some photos so hopefully soon there will be some visual on the web site. Travelled down to Tanzania early this week and managed to make it without any mishaps. Some amazing country side and of course the spectacle of Mt Kilimanjaro. The scenery has changed to African plains and wildlife!!! I am now heading to Malawi and hope to make the border in the next few days.
Big problem with distance as it looks as if the total ‘trip’ will be nearer 60,000 Kms (37,000 Miles) as I have had to detour a lot already and have found that I will need to take a longer way round in some countries much more than I expected.
Hello Feaya, thank you for your message but I don’t seem to be able to read it. Can you write it again on the Tanzania Post? Love you lots and miss you tons, my baby.
I will write something more interesting in the next few days.
Bye to everyone
Spencer
Andreas said: 2010.01.30 11:08
Hi Spencer, this is andreas, you might remember me from gondar, we had a great day you, me, carl and dirk. I’ve just read about the shooting. That’s a hell of a story! Sounds like a close shave. I’m glad you’ve made it out alive and i’m glad you’re still with carl. Tell him i said hello. I’m really looking forward to your next message and I wish you all the best and a save journey.
Andreas
Jackpot said: 2010.01.29 16:18
Hi Spencer
Hope you are sorted and are on your way to Tanzania? If you are going thru Malawi, try out Nkata Bay, lovely place. I used to live in a place called Chikengawa – if you pass any of these places, please take some pics for me and also try some Chambo and an MGT (Malawi gin and tonic). Take care.
Jax and Cabs
Alexander Gray said: 2010.01.28 14:10
Hello Spencer
I will be keeping my Easter Fair open until you get back!
Hi Spencer, I’m glad that you’re all right and I hope for you, that you can be back on the Road in a few days. Let me know if I can organize something for you from back home in Switzerland. My leg is doing well, I can walk quite a little around and it dosn’t heart, so I feel all right. Today it’s snowing and my experience is in Kenia where the temperature should be OK for just whearing T-Shirt and short pants. Anneliese is at work but would like to be in Kenia. However, we’re looking forward to continue our Trip, but at the moment we dont know, when we can do it, but we will see. Take care and enjoy your time on the bike. I would also prefere to ride now but I have to wait. G’s Frank
Alun said: 2010.01.22 23:49
Hi Spence,
Off to the Dragon Rally in Snowdonia in 2 weeks on a Honda C90, and you thought u had it bad. lol
Alum
admin said: 2010.01.22 11:05
Hello Everyone
Sorry no news recently as I am still in Nairobi where my bike has undergone extensive repairs and hopefully will be on my way again, after some filming, in the next few days. I have been busy with radio and TV interviews, and trying to forget about the shooting incident. After shock kicked in and felt a little disconcerted but should be able to forget about it once I get going toTanzania. Co-incidentally Richard E Grant is here filming for the BBC for a programme on the history of Safari. Hello to David Kent, who I was at school with many moons ago, and thanks for the comment. Also to all others who post comments. It helps a lot to know that I am not alone and forgotten out here. Please keep up the contact.
More interesting news next time.
Spencer
David O'Connell said: 2010.01.18 23:30
Spencer,
I am so happy to hear that you safely reached Nairobi. That sounds hopeful in terms of the bike. Keep fit and alert; you have some stories to tell for sure! Take care and be safe.
You probably won’t remember me from Adam – I was one of your 1st years at AC (Lawrenson House, Cliff Rescue) – great to find out that you are undertaking this amazing adventure, and for charity to boot. Just to wish you luck, and may you get back to your family unscathed. I look forward to the book/film/TV series – maybe you could get Ewan and Charlie to comment alongside Mr Grant…
Best
David
admin said: 2010.01.18 12:19
To Alexander and Charlotte from Spencer
Happy New Year to you both and your family. Sorry but I will not be back by Easter but I hope your Fair goes well. I should be in South Africa at that time. I am in Nairobi, Kenya, and will be doing some filming later this week before moving on to Tanzania. Will see you when I get back to Biddenden.
Spencer
Alexander Gray said: 2010.01.18 11:39
Hello Spencer. How are you? Happy New Year from Alexander and Charlotte. Spencer, we are having an Easter Fair. Will you be able to come? love Alexander xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Wow Spencer! that doesn’t sound too good, glad you are OK though, bike will be fine if you have the will. I expect we will be travelling down that road probably in a months time, but hopefully our Solar panels are bullet proof!
We are still in Sudan, we even got our visa’s extended as its so wonderful here! Really don’t like the sound of rain in Ethiopia!
Just heard from our postman (who lives in Biddenden) about your shooting incident. Apparently it made the local news here! Obviously we are all mighty glad that you are ok. I must admit for a moment we feared the worst when he said, ‘Have you heard about Spencer?’.
Sorry about the bike, hope you can get it fixed ok. How dare anyone shoot at a motorcycle, it’s just not on!
I tell you what though, it’s going to make one hell of a chapter in your book! Just make sure you get back in one piece.
Take care, happy biking!
holloway family said: 2010.01.14 22:00
ive just heard the news from the postman, pleased your okay! wish you all the best. we will be keeping track of your progress.
From. Julie (Dexterity) and family. x
Casper said: 2010.01.13 09:45
Hi am journalist with the daily nation, Nairobi Kenya. Am at Karen shopping center trying to reach you, am on 0724345749, kind regards
Andy Hawkins said: 2010.01.11 11:07
Spencer
Wishing all the best through these hard times. I hope you can go through the trauma and work towards getting yourself and your bike into a state of mind and mechanics to continue your journey. My best wishes are with you, and may luck and the man upstairs be on your side. Regards
Andy http://www.touratiger.org
David O'Connell said: 2010.01.10 01:59
Spencer, if anyone can meet these challenges and dangers, you are the man and I have to say I admire your bravery. Keep strong and safe. We continue to check your progress and wish you well. Hope the bike comes out in running order.
Dave O’Connell
Stephen Charlton said: 2010.01.09 22:51
Hey, keep going mate we are all supporting you.-Stephen Charlton
Jackpot said: 2010.01.09 11:28
Hi Spencer, we had some crazy times in Swazi but this latest one of yours beats them all! I’m glad you are safe now and will keep you in my prayers. I’m sure you will get the bike fixed, they can work miracles in Africa. Stay safe and Alan and I will keep following your progress. Cheers Jax and Cabs
Chris Handschuh said: 2010.01.09 11:15
Hi Spencer,
This is Chris from Jungle Junction in Nairobi. Thanks for the Info, good to hire you side of the Story. If we can assist give us a call. 0722-752865
Hey Spencer I’ve read lots about the bandits of N Kenya and the looming danger, never of an actual attack of a motorcyclist until now, well done you were able to keep going and be safe. Incredible effort !!!! Good luck and hope we can meet in Nairobi.
Paul said: 2010.01.08 06:42
Bloody Hell! If you were looking for an adventure you sure found it, what a way to start the new year!! We hope you stay safe and well – Paul & Mu
admin said: 2010.01.07 20:45
Message from Spencer
On 5th January I was travelling on the road from the Ethiopian/Kenyan border going south from Marsabit and had three puntures on the most difficult road of my life. I stopped at a village called Logologo and whilst I was repairing another puncture a Landcruiser stopped and offered to take my gear on to Isiolo and wait there for an overnight stay. I went on and was concentrating on the road as it was now raining heavily, a tropical storm in fact. There were loose stones and potholes everywhere and the road also became a mud slide with deep mud pits. It was a very remote area. I was only about 10 Ks outside the village when three Boran Shiftas ( according to the Police) started shooting at me from a hillside. I came off the bike and realised that they were approaching fast. I managed to jump back on my Tenere and went as quickly as I could to get out of range of the shooting. I continued for about twenty minutes and had to stop because of the damage to the bike. The left side pannier had been hit, and the back brake calliper and tyre had also been hit by bullets. There was nothing much I could do. Stranded in the middle of nowhere with other bandits probably in the area. I decided to ride on as far as possible but after another seventy klms the back wheel collapsed as the spokes had been snapping one by one due to the severity of the road and the damaged tyre. I abandoned the bike and started walking to a village which was about one and a half ks away. Luckily a Catholic Mission station was situated there and the German Priest helped me by giving me tea and food and arranging for my bike to be trucked to the Mission. Unknown to me he informed the Police and two truck loads of military turned up with the Police. They insisted that I go back with them to where the incident had happened, two hours back, but a fruitless trek. They also stopped to show me where a Chinese surveyor had been shot in the head a few weeks before!!! Back at the Mission the Police took a statement which took another two hours. I have a copy of the statement and some photographs. During all this time I was wearing rain drenched clothes and the Police Chief took pity and provided me with a T shirt. The next morning I organised another truck to take me to Isiolo and thankfully Carl, who had been in the Landcruiser, had waited for me with my gear. Great guy. When I first arrived at Isiolo I was surrounded by Kenyans who knew about the shooting and they informed me that my friend was still there. I shared a room with him that night but not before trauma kicked in for both of us, Carl had feared the worst. Where am I now? In Nairobi at Karen Camp site and a taste of civilisation. Carl and I hired a truck to take my bike and the two of us into the city from Isiolo. My bike is now in pieces at a garage in Nairobi, the gear box also damaged. Will it be fixed? I don’t know but if it is I will contiue south to Tanzania and onwards. I have tried to report this as factually as pos without embellishmet but believe me being shot at is no fun!!! Spencer
rest assured !- you are in good company with my sister, Sophs and her husband Piers. With their contacts with the mechanics at the Red Cross and her wonderful hospitality you and your bike should recover!! Emma
Julie and Tom said: 2010.01.04 15:57
Glad you have reached Kenya. We are following your progress and mapping it out on a board in the church so everyone can see on Sundays! You are missing snow and ice in Kent. Keep going….
admin said: 2010.01.04 15:40
Cheers Andy and Happy New Year.
Have a good trip to France and hope all is well with you and the rest of the crew.
Spencer
admin said: 2010.01.04 11:22
From Gareth Dear 04/01/2010
Hey Spence, keeping tags on you via the blog. Great Stuff-you’ve got my admiration for the get up and go. Stay safe and enjoy. I’m expecting a lap of honour down-under afterwards.
Gareth
Hi Spencer
Happy new year. We were in front of you, arrived Marsabit at the 29. but there I had a accident, my right leg is broken and we parked our bikes by Henry. We’re now back in Switzerland, next tuesday they will operate my leg at the Hospital. Have a good ride and take care of yourself and surroundings.
Frank & Anneliese
You’re doing great, Spencer! Amazing, you’ve been at this for quite some time now. Stay safe; I think of you out there quite often. Guess you won’t be riding over to Seychelles!
admin said: 2009.12.31 21:50
Hello from Spencer
Happy New Year to all from Marsabit in Northern Kenya. Hope everybody has a great New Year Party and special greetings to my family, all bikers, friends and supporters from around the world. Hope every one has a prosperous 2010.
Crossed from Ethiopia into Kenya today, Ethiopians super people,friendly and helpful. Very bumpy muram (dirt) road to Marsabit. Going round a bend at 60 kph hit a pile of rocks and came off the bike and slid for a few metres. Result : bruised ribs, cuts and bruises. Bike OK except for broken headlight, again, and another damaged tyre.
Staying in a ‘luxury hotel’ tonight on New Year’s eve. One room shack, no electricity, water bucket and outside loo under the stars. Strange noises in the bundu!!! Not me!!! On the road to Isiolo tomorrow.
[...] over to this area. The area is known for its banditry and after reading Spencer Conways blog at http://www.Africa-bike-adventure.com who got shot at on his motorcycle (so much so that he had to abandon his bike for a time) we decided [...]
[...] over to this area. The area is known for its banditry and after reading Spencer Conways blog at http://www.Africa-bike-adventure.com who got shot at on his motorcycle (so much so that he had to abandon his bike for a time) we decided [...]
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Spencer having a well earned break and taking in Africa’s beautiful landscape…..
Hi Spencer, me and Alan thinking of you, hope you are well? Where are you now?
spencer – hang on in there bud! it’s downhill from now…jdx
Hi Spencer, I hope you are still ok and enjoying the wonderful different african countries. Capetown still holds me, and I try to find a cargo ship that brings me and my bke to ghana (not that easy). I’m the german girl you met in Spingbock, if you like you can have a look on my blog, http://www.jamboree.rtwblog.de,
Maybe we’ll see us in the northern part of africa, take care! Birgit
Awesome trip…one which i hope to do as well one day…unfortunately africa is a bit of a hectic place
at times, thank goodness you’re safe though….you should hopefully love south africa, i think …there
are lots of friendly people here but one still has to be vigilant though…best of luck for the rest of your
journey and ride safely.
Wallace, Souht Africa
Please refer to older comments for updates. Admin
Looks like problems with the site. Recent comments are going into the older comments area.
Michael said: 2010.03.11 16:34
Alun said: 2010.03.10 20:49
Hi Dude,
Hows it going. I tried to get Lois telephone number yesterday, seems i have deleted it oops! so had to resort to emaiiling both Lois and Austin. Lois emailed me today to say you had managed to get her number.
I really hope you are well and pleased with what you are achieving.
I have started a job 3 days a week in a motorbike shop, part e-commerce part sales, like being a kid in a sweet shop, only downside I want every bike in the shop.
In the process of getting the plans all sorted for the Yamaha XT meeting in Hay on Wye 14-16 May.
I am looking forward to seeing you and your wonderful parents again on your return.
Keep safe and more power to your throttle.
Best wishes
Alun
helooooo Spencer its Feaya (your amazing daughter) and Olivia and Lidia (her very best friends)…..we are in ict and we are very bored ): hope everything is ok we miss you keep going and try not to get shot
lots of love Feaya,Olivia and Lidia xxxxx
Spencer said: 2010.03.08 11:06
Hello everyone. At present stuck in Namibia trying to get a visa for Angola. Proving a bit of a nightmare. Met up with Carl, the Canadian who helped me out with the probs in Kenya. He is backpacking through Africa and our paths have crossed again. Good to have some company and to face the difficulties together. I can see that the next few weeks are going to present more problems as going through Angola and DRC is not going to be easy. I will add something more interesting in a few days.
Spencer
Hi Spencer, not heard from you in a wee while, are you still in SA? Hope you managing to get all your paperwork organised? Take care. Jax and Cabs
Spencer
I was shocked to read about the shooting incident but glad that you are ok and putting it behind you. The Ngoro crater trip sounded fantastic and I look forward to seeing the photos when you get back.
Sorry to have missed you in Swaziland but I am still in Pakistan trudging uo and down the mountains of Kashmir and relying on ‘onedrop’ to keep me on the straight and narrow.
Take care old man
Andrew Paterson
hi spanner are you going up past port noloth alexander bay nice pub there any way pick me up some diamonds on the way just keep ur eyes on the ground!!!!!!!! cheers bounce
Well Done Spencer,
Very glad to see you have arrived at Cape Town Safe. Halfway there now I hope the other half will not be too eventfull.
Lets hope the roads get easier for you. I will keep an eye on your progress and contact you again
Regards
Hi Every One
HALF WAY THERE!!
Just got to Cape Town and about to find a camp site for the next few days as I have to arrange for visas into Namibia and Angola. Pretty hectic here but all OK. More to follow shortly.
Spencer
hi Spencer, glad to see you are well and in Swazi – soooo jealous! Me and Cab been havin our own adventure – house burnt down last week, we are all fine. You know us, don’t do anything in small measures! Will your SA interview be on tv there? Will tell the family to look out for it. As I said before, give our love to all the gang and have fun.
Hi Spencer,
Of all the people I know, you are certainly the man for this adventure. I am very proud of you man! Keep strong and safe…wow what a cool book to write. Please give our warm well wishes to both Simon and Lucinda. We think of you all often.
Take care,
Dave O’C, Amanda, Olivia and Ella
HI there, where are you at the moment. We all had bl…. snow again , you chose the right year to go away. Hope it is all going well and that your having a great time. Snowdrops are out so spring must be on the way, we hope. Biddenden is missing you, Millie still carries sticks home, so I collect some from your door for starting wood, what a well trained dog. Kathie came around today, had a fun time, she is well so is Jas. All missing you. Take care and have a great time. xxx
Well done for reaching Swaziland. Now we really can imagine where you are…..You are missing lots of snow here: not easy to get out of Mansion House Close!
Tom says, have a drink on me at the Whynot? !!!
Hello to all
I have made it to Swaziland, my old home, and it feels great to be here. Have made contact with Simon, my brother, and his daughter, Ysa, who was overjoyed to see me and couldn’t stop crying when I pitched up to her school unannounced. She didn’t recognise me till I took off my helmet and then she jumped into my arms crying ‘Uncle Spencer, Uncle Spencer!’ A fantastic welcome. I have met many former freinds and will be going to my old school,Waterford, tomorrow to give a talk on my journey so far. Off to Joburg for a TV interview in the next few days and then back to Swaziland as I have to stay for Ysa’s birthday. She insists.
I had to deviate from my course as some border disturbances going on in Zimbabwe so travelled south from Malawi through Mozambique. Had to pay $100 for an entry permit!!
There will be some new photos on the Gallery section soon as I can send some through from Swaziland. It has been difficult to do this before. Sorry.
Please keep in touch and send messages and pass on info to others.
Thanks Spencer
Hi Spencer, sounds like you are having a much better time now? Didn’t realise you were going thru Moz, I have a friend who has a lodge, with campsite, in a place called Zavora, if you needing a place to stay, you should stop off there. We are going to be there on 13 July with 9 other Scots people – should be a drunken madhouse!!! Pity we couldn’t have met up, wonder where you will be by then? Please remember and give our love to all in Swazi (Mike, Mary, Pollocks and all the gang). Take care! Jax and Cabs
Hello Everyone
Make sure you read Shaun’s ‘article’ on the blog. Page down a bit till you come to it. It’s really worth it.
Spencer
Jilmislinunda said: 2010.02.05 23:36
Very often I visit this blog. It very much is pleasant to me. Thanks the author
trudy said: 2010.02.06 18:04
Hello Spencer, it has taken some time for me to know what Blog meant!!! We are thinking of you all the time and are with you all the way, googeling away, seeing what roads your on.So pleased your well and survived all that shooting horror. Can’t wait for you to be back and to hear all about the lovely people you met, and the beautiful countries you have seen. Take care and enjoy our splendid world. Much love and hugs from the 3 H’s.
Hi Spencer
A bit remiss not to have checked out your website recently – very shocked to read about the recent ordeal, and very relieved that you are ok! Keep your chin up and take good care.
Best wishes- Robert, Kat, Henry and Floss
Shaun, filming Spencer around Africa [Diesel Films] – Notes from Kenya and Tanzania 02.02.2010
I met up with Spencer in Nairobi to retrieve his diary camera footage and do some additional filming. He was staying at a place called Karen Camp run by a colourful character called Duggie. Karen Camp is a regular stop over / repair shop for Over-landing outfits, so there was plenty of activity with drivers, vehicles and eager travellers as they prepare for trips all over Africa.
Spencer was in good form and recovering fast from the shock of the shooting incident in Northern Kenya. The Tenere was back on the road, repaired by a guy called Rick, who restores old bikes found in sheds and garages all over Kenya – he had all sorts of machines from Indians, Enfield’s, BMW’s and Moto Guzzi’s. As spare parts are hard to get hold of, Rick managed to straighten the Tenere’s rear rim and re-spoke, weld a new lug on the rear calliper and fabricate new fixings for the panniers which had all been shot away.
After a couple of days filming in Nairobi, Spencer was keen to get back on the road so we decided to head off to Arusha which is just over the border in Tanzania. Fortunately, while at Karen Camp, Spencer had met laid-back Aussie Jim Wales. He’s an experienced over-lander who is now running a logistics business which operates throughout the continent. When asked if he could help us out with the filming for a few days he said ‘f**k ya, but I’ve got to be back in Nairobi to get married on Tuesday’
It was good to leave Nairobi – a city of contrasts. On one hand you have the palatial suburbs with decadent properties and servitude, a throw back to a colonial era and on the other hand poverty. Nairobi’s central slum called Kibera is the second largest slum in Africa, housing over 1.2 million people, all crammed into approx 1 square mile – shocking.
After a couple of hours on the road, which could change from newly laid hard-top to dirt and pot holes without warning, we arrived at the Tanzania border. A typical chaotic scene of heat, dust and confusion, as locals and seasoned travellers pushed and shoved their way through the bureaucracy. To add to the mix, a constant stream of 4X4’s would deposit khaki clad safari tourists – reluctant to step out of the safety of air-con, they were forced to rub shoulders with real Africa and look black authority in the eye. Strangely, US citizen have to pay twice as much for a Visa than any other nation – a poignant charge for wealth and privilege.
Another hour on the road and we were clear of people, shacks and roadside vendors and had entered open savannah, for me this was the picture that typified central Africa. A ribbon of tarmac stretched ahead striking a path through the vast grassland, Acacia trees with their synonymous shape were randomly dotted on the landscape, standing defiant against heat and drought. In the distance Mt Meru with its crater shaped peak marked our destination, Arusha, and to the east we could just make out the snow capped Mt Kilimanjaro.
Entering Arusha at dusk we headed straight for a place called Maasai Camp, on the outskirts of town. Spencer pitched a tent and Jim and I roughed it in a couple of basic rooms. After a couple of beers an enthusiastic decision was made to visit the Ngorongoro Crater, which was about a 3 hour drive from Arusha. Ngorongoro is one of nature’s phenomena – formed between 2- 3 million years ago the crater is 100 square miles in area, providing a self sufficient ecosystem full of herbivores and carnivores which have been eating, breeding and dieing there for hundreds of years.
After a sleepless night at Maasai Camp, which unbeknownst to us turned into the local rave till 5am, we set off bleary-eyed to Ngorongoro. The African roads or should I say drivers are responsible for some horrific accidents and sure enough Jim and I witnessed a near fatal incident right in-front of our eyes, as a car over took us, lost control and cart- wheeled 3 times before landing upended in a ditch – I was hesitant to approach the scene of such carnage, expecting lifeless mangled flesh and bones. But, miraculously the driver had hauled him self out of the wreckage and was immediately on his blood-soaked mobile phone, 30 yards away thrown from the car his passenger was sitting up dazed but conscious, lucky to be alive. It was a messy reminder of the dangers of travelling and what Spencer is exposed to on a daily basis.
Another hour on the road and sadly Spencer broke a rear spoke, not to try and push our luck we abandoned the bike with some friendlies and continued in the truck. Unlike a UK 4X4 that suffer the odd speed hump and baby sick, Jim’s truck had seen it all, it had bumped, bashed and crashed its way through thousands of miles of African roads. However, although sturdy and robust it decided to over heat as we made our way up the steep incline to Ngorongoro. Jim being resourceful immediately commandeered my precious drinking water and set about pouring several litres into a very thirsty Nissan Patrol. I became a little concerned as I saw the last of my Cholera, Typhoid free H2O disappear into the metal belly of the Nissan. It was alright for the well seasoned Jim and Spencer, they had spent so much time in African could drink the local ditch water or happily enjoy a glass of each others urine.
By the time we got to the entrance of the conservation area it was too late to make the drive into the crater, so decided to enter but make camp in one of the designated camp sites on the rim of the crater. After a little filming before we lost the light, Spencer showed off his bush tucker skills and cooked up some chicken and beans on an open fire – a welcome feed and I was impressed by his hot rock cooking technique. As we enjoyed a bit of amateur star gazing washed down with a dusty bottle of Brandy, I suddenly noticed 2 huge white tusks appearing from the darkness. As my eyes adjusted, a massive bull elephant nonchalantly wandered into our campsite and silently meandered passed us within 20 feet before disappearing into the undergrowth to snort some vegetation – although this was a surreal moment for a chap from Bethnal Green, I do believe that even Spencer and Jim were a bit in awe. Strangely, one of them elected to sleep in the truck that night, leaving me out as bait – nice.
Next morning, Jim got us up at stupid o’clock, well before sunrise to make the descent into the crater. The best time to witness any kills was early morning as most of the predators are active over night. After a little Aussie negotiation between Jim and the gate-keeper, we were free to enter one of the most remarkable places of natural history in the world. As the mists cleared, Zebra, Wildebeest, Gazelle appeared in numbers. A solitary Hyena sniffed the air scavenging for a scent of a kill, a group of foxes darted through the long grasses alert and suspicious of noise and smells. With the mist burning off rapidly even more of this extraordinary place was revealed, a distant lake with flamingo, a watering hole with Hippo, a pair of black Rhino and a vast herd of Buffalo. Having been brought up on a rich diet of Attenborough I could not help but hear his rhythmic enthusiasm as I gazed at this wildlife cocktail. We drove around the many tracks that criss-cross the crater in search of big cats but only got a distance glimpse of a Lion cub high up on a hilltop. Ngorongoro Crater is extraordinary and bizarre, I highly recommend it if you’re in that part of the world.
Our time was up in the crater and Jim had a 12 hour drive back to Nairobi for his own wedding scheduled for the next morning – after retrieving Spencer’s bike, he deposited us back in Arusha and set off with no sleep, a packet of biscuits and a water leak. He made it.
Jim very kindly put us in-touch with his mate Chris Gee who runs an overlanding outfit which has a base in Arusha called African Trails (africantrails.co.uk) Mark Pearce fellow countrymen of Jim’s who was looking after the place took us in with the customary ‘no worries mate’ and offered us the floor in a shed which we could share with the resident rat and a couple of lethal biting spiders.
After a restless night’s sleep with the rodent, Mark lent us his pick-up so we could meet up with Ronnie Bender of Adventure Bike Africa (adventure-bike-africa.com) who subsequently put us in-touch with Per Bjerre of Dustbusters (dustbusters-tz.com) so we could get Spencer’s bike checked and replace the broken spoke.
Per has become a bit of a legend in the area and is a phenomenal off-road motorcyclist. He’s not only built up a reputable adventure motorcycle business since 1991 but has also built his own motocross track in his back yard – obviously he wins all the races. Per was more than happy to check over the bike, fix the spoke and give Spencer the confidence that although the rear rim needed replacing, it would probably make it to SA.
With only one filming day left, Mark and his Aussie spirit guide took us out to film the sun rising over Mt Kilimanjaro which was apparently ‘very cool’ as most of the time it’s covered in cloud. We attempted to round up some wild Zebra for the shot but strangely they weren’t interested and they buggered off to be black & white somewhere else.
The road beckoned for Spencer willing him on to Malawi and Mozambique, where as I and a vomiting child took a 6 seater Cessna back to Nairobi, from there I was relieved of my fluids and rode a virgin back to Blighty.
Over and out, Shaun
PS: If you’d like to financially contribute to the filming of Spencer’s epic journey – we would be delighted. Please contact us via the website.
Hi Spencer,
Mum and Dad, Monique and Malcolm, want you to know that they’re thinking of you often and that they are very relieved you made it through your terrifying ordeal, as are we.
Let’s hope that was the first and last! We’re all following your progress avidly and wishing you well. Bet you have no idea what a fantastic geography lesson my children are getting -which continent next??!!
Stay safe,
Veronique and family xx
hey daddy
i miss you and i hope all is going well ! i know your fine and keep going as fast as you can . Are you having a good time? i wish i could come on the back of the bike im really proud of you and i miss you lots
Feaya xx
Hi Spencer,
Glad to hear that all is now well. You have been through a very rough time.
I still look to see how you are getting on.I have not forgotten about meeting up with you when you arrive back in Europe and travelling back with you . If any one else would like to travell with us please let me know on bill.barton@boc.com and I will see what we can organise.Hear from you soon.Bill Barton
Hey Spencer,
Glad you are still Ok after the shooting incident. I hope you don’t have any more bad experiences like that. Stay safe and will see you when you get to South Africa.
Cheers Andy Bosse
Hi Every One
To Lance, George, Andreas, Jax, Cabs, Frank, Alum, Dave O, and etc etc.
Quick update. Am now in central Malawi and made great progress in two days, 1500 kms. All OK and heading onwards tomorrow. I tell you things are not cheap here. More in the next couple of days.
Feeling fine Spencer
spencer u moppet
didn’t u learn anything in southern africa? ie how to dodge bullets??
good to hear you’re back on your pegs again.
bumped into some of your swazi history in mali. ja, it’s waiting for you when u get to swazi:)
promise i won’t tell a soul about ouzo in addis.
keep trukkin bro
lance
Spencer
Good to catch up the other night and hear of your adventures. Bloody glad it was you rather than me on the Moyale road… Don’t fancy my chances of being able to escape as quickly as you. Hope you made Malawi ok – at that rate you’ll be able to lap me.
Take care and safe travels
George
http://www.cycletocapetown.weebly.com
From Michael
INfo from Admin
Some recent comments have been logged into the older comments section. To keep in present comments add them in POST Kenya to Tanzania.
Thanks a lot and please keep the comments coming as Spencer looks forward to the contact from you all. Please encourage friends and others to add their comments. OH SO Grateful
Michael
Hello from Spencer
Sorry for the lack of updates but it has been rather hectic here trying to get out of Kenya. Shaun has been here for a week to do some filming and take some photos so hopefully soon there will be some visual on the web site. Travelled down to Tanzania early this week and managed to make it without any mishaps. Some amazing country side and of course the spectacle of Mt Kilimanjaro. The scenery has changed to African plains and wildlife!!! I am now heading to Malawi and hope to make the border in the next few days.
Big problem with distance as it looks as if the total ‘trip’ will be nearer 60,000 Kms (37,000 Miles) as I have had to detour a lot already and have found that I will need to take a longer way round in some countries much more than I expected.
Hello Feaya, thank you for your message but I don’t seem to be able to read it. Can you write it again on the Tanzania Post? Love you lots and miss you tons, my baby.
I will write something more interesting in the next few days.
Bye to everyone
Spencer
Hi Spencer, this is andreas, you might remember me from gondar, we had a great day you, me, carl and dirk. I’ve just read about the shooting. That’s a hell of a story! Sounds like a close shave. I’m glad you’ve made it out alive and i’m glad you’re still with carl. Tell him i said hello. I’m really looking forward to your next message and I wish you all the best and a save journey.
Andreas
Hi Spencer
Hope you are sorted and are on your way to Tanzania? If you are going thru Malawi, try out Nkata Bay, lovely place. I used to live in a place called Chikengawa – if you pass any of these places, please take some pics for me and also try some Chambo and an MGT (Malawi gin and tonic). Take care.
Jax and Cabs
Hello Spencer
I will be keeping my Easter Fair open until you get back!
love
Alexander xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Hi Spencer, I’m glad that you’re all right and I hope for you, that you can be back on the Road in a few days. Let me know if I can organize something for you from back home in Switzerland. My leg is doing well, I can walk quite a little around and it dosn’t heart, so I feel all right. Today it’s snowing and my experience is in Kenia where the temperature should be OK for just whearing T-Shirt and short pants. Anneliese is at work but would like to be in Kenia. However, we’re looking forward to continue our Trip, but at the moment we dont know, when we can do it, but we will see. Take care and enjoy your time on the bike. I would also prefere to ride now but I have to wait. G’s Frank
Hi Spence,
Off to the Dragon Rally in Snowdonia in 2 weeks on a Honda C90, and you thought u had it bad. lol
Alum
Hello Everyone
Sorry no news recently as I am still in Nairobi where my bike has undergone extensive repairs and hopefully will be on my way again, after some filming, in the next few days. I have been busy with radio and TV interviews, and trying to forget about the shooting incident. After shock kicked in and felt a little disconcerted but should be able to forget about it once I get going toTanzania. Co-incidentally Richard E Grant is here filming for the BBC for a programme on the history of Safari. Hello to David Kent, who I was at school with many moons ago, and thanks for the comment. Also to all others who post comments. It helps a lot to know that I am not alone and forgotten out here. Please keep up the contact.
More interesting news next time.
Spencer
Spencer,
I am so happy to hear that you safely reached Nairobi. That sounds hopeful in terms of the bike. Keep fit and alert; you have some stories to tell for sure! Take care and be safe.
Dave O’Connell
Hey Spencer
You probably won’t remember me from Adam – I was one of your 1st years at AC (Lawrenson House, Cliff Rescue) – great to find out that you are undertaking this amazing adventure, and for charity to boot. Just to wish you luck, and may you get back to your family unscathed. I look forward to the book/film/TV series – maybe you could get Ewan and Charlie to comment alongside Mr Grant…
Best
David
To Alexander and Charlotte from Spencer
Happy New Year to you both and your family. Sorry but I will not be back by Easter but I hope your Fair goes well. I should be in South Africa at that time. I am in Nairobi, Kenya, and will be doing some filming later this week before moving on to Tanzania. Will see you when I get back to Biddenden.
Spencer
Hello Spencer. How are you? Happy New Year from Alexander and Charlotte. Spencer, we are having an Easter Fair. Will you be able to come? love Alexander xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Wow Spencer! that doesn’t sound too good, glad you are OK though, bike will be fine if you have the will. I expect we will be travelling down that road probably in a months time, but hopefully our Solar panels are bullet proof!
We are still in Sudan, we even got our visa’s extended as its so wonderful here! Really don’t like the sound of rain in Ethiopia!
If your bike is that bad we may catch you up…
Take it easy!
Gwyn (Ryan, Shaun)
http://www.overlandinthesun.com
Just heard from our postman (who lives in Biddenden) about your shooting incident. Apparently it made the local news here! Obviously we are all mighty glad that you are ok. I must admit for a moment we feared the worst when he said, ‘Have you heard about Spencer?’.
Sorry about the bike, hope you can get it fixed ok. How dare anyone shoot at a motorcycle, it’s just not on!
I tell you what though, it’s going to make one hell of a chapter in your book! Just make sure you get back in one piece.
Take care, happy biking!
ive just heard the news from the postman, pleased your okay! wish you all the best. we will be keeping track of your progress.
From. Julie (Dexterity) and family. x
Hi am journalist with the daily nation, Nairobi Kenya. Am at Karen shopping center trying to reach you, am on 0724345749, kind regards
Spencer
Wishing all the best through these hard times. I hope you can go through the trauma and work towards getting yourself and your bike into a state of mind and mechanics to continue your journey. My best wishes are with you, and may luck and the man upstairs be on your side. Regards
Andy
http://www.touratiger.org
Spencer, if anyone can meet these challenges and dangers, you are the man and I have to say I admire your bravery. Keep strong and safe. We continue to check your progress and wish you well. Hope the bike comes out in running order.
Dave O’Connell
Hey, keep going mate we are all supporting you.-Stephen Charlton
Hi Spencer, we had some crazy times in Swazi but this latest one of yours beats them all! I’m glad you are safe now and will keep you in my prayers. I’m sure you will get the bike fixed, they can work miracles in Africa. Stay safe and Alan and I will keep following your progress. Cheers Jax and Cabs
Hi Spencer,
This is Chris from Jungle Junction in Nairobi. Thanks for the Info, good to hire you side of the Story. If we can assist give us a call. 0722-752865
Cheers Chris
Hey Spencer I’ve read lots about the bandits of N Kenya and the looming danger, never of an actual attack of a motorcyclist until now, well done you were able to keep going and be safe. Incredible effort !!!! Good luck and hope we can meet in Nairobi.
Bloody Hell! If you were looking for an adventure you sure found it, what a way to start the new year!! We hope you stay safe and well – Paul & Mu
Message from Spencer
On 5th January I was travelling on the road from the Ethiopian/Kenyan border going south from Marsabit and had three puntures on the most difficult road of my life. I stopped at a village called Logologo and whilst I was repairing another puncture a Landcruiser stopped and offered to take my gear on to Isiolo and wait there for an overnight stay. I went on and was concentrating on the road as it was now raining heavily, a tropical storm in fact. There were loose stones and potholes everywhere and the road also became a mud slide with deep mud pits. It was a very remote area. I was only about 10 Ks outside the village when three Boran Shiftas ( according to the Police) started shooting at me from a hillside. I came off the bike and realised that they were approaching fast. I managed to jump back on my Tenere and went as quickly as I could to get out of range of the shooting. I continued for about twenty minutes and had to stop because of the damage to the bike. The left side pannier had been hit, and the back brake calliper and tyre had also been hit by bullets. There was nothing much I could do. Stranded in the middle of nowhere with other bandits probably in the area. I decided to ride on as far as possible but after another seventy klms the back wheel collapsed as the spokes had been snapping one by one due to the severity of the road and the damaged tyre. I abandoned the bike and started walking to a village which was about one and a half ks away. Luckily a Catholic Mission station was situated there and the German Priest helped me by giving me tea and food and arranging for my bike to be trucked to the Mission. Unknown to me he informed the Police and two truck loads of military turned up with the Police. They insisted that I go back with them to where the incident had happened, two hours back, but a fruitless trek. They also stopped to show me where a Chinese surveyor had been shot in the head a few weeks before!!! Back at the Mission the Police took a statement which took another two hours. I have a copy of the statement and some photographs. During all this time I was wearing rain drenched clothes and the Police Chief took pity and provided me with a T shirt. The next morning I organised another truck to take me to Isiolo and thankfully Carl, who had been in the Landcruiser, had waited for me with my gear. Great guy. When I first arrived at Isiolo I was surrounded by Kenyans who knew about the shooting and they informed me that my friend was still there. I shared a room with him that night but not before trauma kicked in for both of us, Carl had feared the worst. Where am I now? In Nairobi at Karen Camp site and a taste of civilisation. Carl and I hired a truck to take my bike and the two of us into the city from Isiolo. My bike is now in pieces at a garage in Nairobi, the gear box also damaged. Will it be fixed? I don’t know but if it is I will contiue south to Tanzania and onwards. I have tried to report this as factually as pos without embellishmet but believe me being shot at is no fun!!! Spencer
rest assured !- you are in good company with my sister, Sophs and her husband Piers. With their contacts with the mechanics at the Red Cross and her wonderful hospitality you and your bike should recover!! Emma
Glad you have reached Kenya. We are following your progress and mapping it out on a board in the church so everyone can see on Sundays! You are missing snow and ice in Kent. Keep going….
Cheers Andy and Happy New Year.
Have a good trip to France and hope all is well with you and the rest of the crew.
Spencer
From Gareth Dear 04/01/2010
Hey Spence, keeping tags on you via the blog. Great Stuff-you’ve got my admiration for the get up and go. Stay safe and enjoy. I’m expecting a lap of honour down-under afterwards.
Gareth
Hi Spencer
Happy new year. We were in front of you, arrived Marsabit at the 29. but there I had a accident, my right leg is broken and we parked our bikes by Henry. We’re now back in Switzerland, next tuesday they will operate my leg at the Hospital. Have a good ride and take care of yourself and surroundings.
Frank & Anneliese
You’re doing great, Spencer! Amazing, you’ve been at this for quite some time now. Stay safe; I think of you out there quite often. Guess you won’t be riding over to Seychelles!
Hello from Spencer
Happy New Year to all from Marsabit in Northern Kenya. Hope everybody has a great New Year Party and special greetings to my family, all bikers, friends and supporters from around the world. Hope every one has a prosperous 2010.
Crossed from Ethiopia into Kenya today, Ethiopians super people,friendly and helpful. Very bumpy muram (dirt) road to Marsabit. Going round a bend at 60 kph hit a pile of rocks and came off the bike and slid for a few metres. Result : bruised ribs, cuts and bruises. Bike OK except for broken headlight, again, and another damaged tyre.
Staying in a ‘luxury hotel’ tonight on New Year’s eve. One room shack, no electricity, water bucket and outside loo under the stars. Strange noises in the bundu!!! Not me!!! On the road to Isiolo tomorrow.
Bye Spencer