TRAVERSE Issue 36 - June 2023 | Page 19

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north , we ’ d continue on the Colson Track , a route seldom taken . This is a northsouth passage , one that many consider not a true crossing , we ’ d soon discover that the chosen route is by far a tougher option . Not to be taken lightly .
The Colson Track is named for Ted Colson , the first European to make a crossing of the Simpson Desert on foot , it seemed a fitting tribute and one that brought trepidation , a number of riders were against the plan , wanting to return back over the dunes , in the worst condition we ’ d seen for a number of years . Each way would be a serious challenge for even the best sand riders .
The Colson challenged like never before . As wild camels , not native to Australia yet living wild since being released in the early 1900 ’ s as mechanised transport took hold , watched on , riders spoke of three hours of enduro at a motocross pace .
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