Wake up in a train station.
The comfortable hotel in Swakopmund, was an old train station which was given another use. And a very good one it was, with fatigue settling in I slept for ages missing the dinner.
Hop into the bus, when the Sun was still bathing the other side of this magnificent Continent. Today, specially today we had to hurry, this was the beginning of our return to the East Coast, and this involved particularly long stages, and difficult refueling.
Every one well briefed about todays difficulties, raised the concentration and the testosterone was in the air.
Everyone ready with the Sun one hand above the Horizon, but one Cherokee decided not to cooperate. The starter was not performing his task... start.
Engine cover out, several possibilities advanced but no solution in view. In view was the Sun, two hands above the horizon by now.
A handy, maintenance from Swakopmund approached us and provided help. The aircraft was pushed into a pristine hangar.
The Cherokee exposed his age and use, needed a new starter, but worst was the collector had a crack. This engine was at peril. And so was todays plan.
A few phone calls away to Windoek, where the aircraft could be repaired, decisions were made. The damaged Cherokee and the Flamingo for support fly to Windoek. The rest proceed to Gobabis for the night.
©NunoCoimbra2011
Three Man displayed the best in them, Lourenço flying a crippled Aircraft over desert and Mountain. Deitado, fearless, seated side by side with Lourenço, and Maia who risking losing his head or hand, hand prop it. (The process of starting a propeler driven airplane by hand).
Namibia Capital was reached at 3 in the afternoon. At 5 the aircraft was ready. Impressive, none of us believed it.
The group was now separated, some in Windoek, some in Gobabis.
It was still pitch dark when we reached Eros airport with a temperature of -1ºC. Shivering, we waited inside the airplanes for the first signs of light over the mountain.
Guided by the Sun we rejoined the rest in Gobabis with an objective in mind. Reach the East coast before sunset. That means cross the African Continent in half Earth revolution.
©NunoCoimbra2011
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Maputo, eight hours and three landings after, my body recommends rest, my brain refuses. With a huge sense of achievement we parked for the night hearing in a familiar language, welcome. Party we deserve, party we shall have, the rest can wait.
