Well-known local guide Harry Satloka became interested in cycling after lockdown and purchased a second hand bicycle. He’d always had an ambition to cycle to Egypt to visit the pyramids and, after much practice and joining a cycling club, Harry’s dream came true.
On his bicycle, named Rudolph, he set off from Spofforth, travelling through England to London and then on to Dover. Arriving in France, he cycled to Dunkirk to view the war graves, where his sturdy bike unfortunately came to grief, with the wheel-spokes breaking completely, and so a rescue team from England travelled to France to resurrect Rudolph.
Onwards towards the Alps, climbing many hills and on reaching the top, many times he celebrated with a hill dance. On into Switzerland, where he was able to collect post from a Post Office, as at other points during his travels. Wild camping in the forests was exciting, sleeping in a hammock strung between trees and at one point, later, discovering he’d spent the night in the company of a bear.
Harry filmed himself cycling, which was complicated, having to retrace his tracks, set up the camera and re-cycle the few miles he’d already ridden – consequently increasing his mileage. He received wonderful hospitality and kindness, ,from people he’d never met, throughout his ride. Through Hungary, Croatia, Bulgaria, Istanbul and the Syrian Border, Rudolph’s tyres survived many rough roads, but, inevitably, the first flat tyre had to be repaired in torrential rain.
Having cycled along a challenging road he encountered a closed tunnel in his path, which meant a very long detour. After discussion with some workmen, he was allowed to cycle through. However, later, he was hit by a car and taken to hospital to receive treatment. Having rested for a few days, he took a flight and then a bus to Cairo and was delighted to see the pyramids. He had no bike at this stage but managed to borrow one and cycled to the closest pyramids.
An amazing journey, and all for the benefit of ARTIZAN, a charity close to Harry’s heart. Thank you Harry, we were all spellbound.
– Brenda Davies