Freedom rider

An adventure in extreme endurance sport, as well as an inquiry into the unique story of South Africa, journalist Kevin Davie shares his story of mountain biking in remote, wide-open South African spaces, as he endures a 10,000 kilometer journey that tested his courage and determination through blizzards, lightning, and hail storms, as well as 104-degree heat. Riding in minimalistic fashion—carrying all of his equipment without the aid of a backup vehicle—Davie’s story explores the question of why athletes push themselves to rise to the challenge of extreme sport and provides a stirring account of the South Africa and the incredible warmth and support from locals who reached out to help.