Stage 7 Chame - Manang

30km 75% ride able ascent 1044m ALT 2570m-3540m

Before departure the mayor of the Manang district wanted to send us his best wishes for our journey. We each lined up shook hands with about 6 different representatives and were handed three white silk scarfs around our necks with blessings. We were then on our way to the outskirts of Chame to start another day of climbing. Small section of hike a bike today made for majority of descent grade biking. We've entered out first section of snowy spots which were nicely packed in for smooth riding. I remember this section from 7 yrs ago and wanting to be on a bike rather then foot. After a bit of climbing most of the terrain is ungulating . A wide windy valley brings you to a finial steep climb into Manang. At 3500m altitude was apparent as just pushing my bike up the finial climb was exhausting. We lost out first international rider. After long bike days and chest pains Pear made the decision to turn back before things got worse. It's hard to recover or feel any better from here on in with the altitude. Others have been fighting fevers or stomach problems. 2 porters have turned back along with 3 Germans who were following the race due to illness. Mananag is out resting point for an extra day to help us acclimatize. After 7 hard days of racing it welcomed with enjoyment from the local bakery. Jeremy had a real long day in getting here. 4am he left the warmth of his sleeping bag and headed out in the dark. He spent the day walking and waiting for racers to pass by at the perfect photo opt spot with Jon. Jon is from Vancouver and is filming a video following Aussie Paul. This is Paul's second year at the Yak Attack and is hoping to beat 30hrs. He's raising money for a local orphanage and if he does not succeed under 30hr he will donate all the money in his bank account 10,000. He is such a character and real unique guy with a great heart! 12 hrs latter the boys rolled in with glossy eyes and never wanting to walk again. They too are much appreciative of a rest day.