My apologies to all weblog users. The connection failed as I’ve tried to upload my latest lines yesterday – so everything got deleted and I decided to catch some sleep instead. Here’s what happened: After we had to service Liz’ bike until 3 a.m. the electrical system proved to be flawless for the whole of the next day. Start was scheduled for 7 a.m. The night’s massive rainfalls had transformed the track into a mud ditch. Additionally I suffered from a rotten stomach. Directly after the start we were confronted with an uphill slope where already some 15 bikes were struggling and stuck in different heights and positions. The air was filled with hefty curses and roaring motor sounds. Exactly what we came here for! From there the track led to the acknowledged castle of “Vlad the Impaler”. Directly below his castle there was a short course to complete before we were give our stamps at the checkpoint. But after that we went on some gorgeous grass track with a beautiful view of the surroundings. Clearly an advantage to be able to take a look around if you don’t have to drive so fast. But what comes up must come down. So we slid back down again trying to get a hold – almost like skiing. But you had to concentrate not to loose control. To help out Liz being stuck some way above I actually had to crawl up there. No chance to walk through this kind of environment. Btw: Here’s a how you get through a private property gate as a female driver in Romania. If you meet a male property owner, you just have to engage him in a little chat and he will help you through – even if you didn’t mean to drive through anyway. If you meet a woman owner, be prepared to get offended or threatened with a big stick. However, by paying her about 3 Euros “expense allowance” she will eventually let you pass. Women know how to stand her ground when it comes to business.