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Thursday, 09 September 2010
 
 
Trail Grading Print E-mail
Written by Derick van Eeden   
Monday, 24 April 2006
Section A: ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
 
Name of trailZevenfontein 4x4 / 4x2
Contact informationTrail ownerDerik Prins
 Trail managerDerik Prins
Contact personDerik Prins
Address and telephone numbers023-626 2173
 023-626 3329 (Fax)
 082 294 3103 (cell)
  
  
Website 
Email Address 
 
Drive Out RepresentativeEvaluatorFrancois Smit
Address and telephone numbers31 Geelbos Straat 
Protea Valley
Bellville, 7530
021-9131610,  0837199135)
 
Grading informationDate of Grading08-Aug-04
Conditions at the time of GradingPartly Cloudy
Vehicle Used for Grading1998 Discovery TDI 
Is this a standard VehicleNo
If not standard, what modifications have been done?Raised Suspension (Old Man EMU)
 
The Cost Cost per VehicleR 150
  Accommodation CostCamping  : R50 per Vehicle
Bungalow : R200 per night
 

General comments / recommendations
Zevenfontein offers an average 4x4- and an exceptional 4x2 trail. The 4x2 trail is one of the best that I have driven as it provides sufficiently challenging obstacles in beautiful surroundings. (It is not just an “easy” farm road to increase the offering to visitors, but considerable care and thought went into the design and layout thereof.)

There is opportunity to improve and develop the accommodation and camping facilities as the immediate surroundings are beautiful with great potential to develop this area into an excellent campsite. The ablution- and other facilities are however insufficient for the number of campsites/vehicles catered for.

A comprehensive information pack with background on the Agterkliphoogte valley, fauna & flora found en-route, the trail/farm itself as well as nearby places of interest (wine cellar, Amatunzi Game Lodge, alternate route to Worcester etc) will add great value to the existing offering. The trail map can be improved with basic rules and regulations a requirement.

There is some maintenance on the trail required, specifically on the downhill section after the Toyota viewpoint where more erosion-retaining walls will minimise potential environmental impact.

All in all, a very interesting trail with beautiful scenery, great potential and good value for money.


Section B: Accommodation
B1: ClassificationApplicableNumber
of
Provides for (People)
CampingBush campingNo infrastructure
Designated location / clearly marked
Completely self -sufficient
---
Rustic campingBasic infrastructure (no electricity, water, toilets, showers, braai facilities)Yes115
Basic campingPermanent infrastructure (electricity, water - hot and cold, ablution facilities, showers, lapa, covered kitchen-area)---
Luxury campingPermanent infrastructure. Covered ablution facilities. Hot and cold water, electricity, lapa, covered kitchen-area, swimming pool, refrigeration facilities available. Serviced daily ---
Covered AccommodationHutPermanent covered structure. No electricity. Single room for sleeping and  cooking, running water (hot & cold), outside toilet and showers)---
BungalowPermanent covered structure. Single room for sleeping and cooking. Running water, separate bathroom / shower / toiletYes15
LodgePermanent covered structure. Separated sleeping rooms, bathroom, Social- and kitchen area (with or without electricity), refrigeration)---
Bed and BreakfastBungalow or Lodge. Breakfast and / or other meals provided. Facility  serviced daily---
OtherElectricity on Request.---
 
B 2.1: Evaluation (covered accommodation)12345NOTES / COMMENTS
 
Overall impression (Atmosphere)  1  Cosy 3 room wooden Wendy House with basic necessitates.
As this bungalow is integrated with the main campsite., the overall atmosphere can be improved by secluding it from the  camp. Wooden- or even shade-net fencing would suffice.

The same recommendation applies to the parked caravan. Consider relocating it to a more private/secluded spot and the building of a semi-permanent structure (Patio) in front.
Position / location  1  Situated on the edge of a poplar tree forest. Small river stream nearby. Nice ambiance.
Views  1  The bungalow (cabin) is enclosed by trees and as such does not lend itself to any specific views of the surrounding mountains. The patio faces the main campsite with a caravan parked in front.

Relocating the caravan and fencing in the bungalow, would not only provide for more privacy, but also enhance the “Forest” views and improve the overall appeal of this facility.
Shade  1  More than sufficient.
Facilities: upkeep, condition,  hygiene, comfort of bathroom / showers / baths / toilets, sleeping quarters / rooms, cooking area / kitchen. 1   In-line with the expectation associated with “Rustic” accommodation, the bungalow conforms to the minimum requirements and shares the ablution facilities with the main camp and caravan. However, the facility, being right next to the bungalow should be restricted for use by bungalow – when occupied, only.
Another recommendation would be to use fine gravel or (preferably) small river pebbles as ground cover within the ablution facility and shower area.
Upkeep, condition , comfort and atmosphere of  Social area  / Lapa 1   The basics are provided for, but a more permanent fireplace / outside braai area with sufficient seating will improve the appeal of this facility considerably.
Braai facilities  1  Adequate. See previous comment.
Other noteworthy facilitiesElectricity can be provided for upon request.
Count 02500 
Score 041500
TOTAL SCORE FOR COVERED ACCOMMODATION OUT OF1935 
AVERAGE SCORE54%    
B 2.2: Evaluation (formal camping facilities)12345NOTES / COMMENTS
 
Overall impression 1   Two clearings in the woods provides for up to 15 campsites /stands.  The standard of these conforms to that of “Bush Camping” with the exception that there is access to a shared ablution facility.
Position / Location  1  The immediate surroundings are beautiful with great potential to develop this area into an excellent campsite. Consider a) demarcating individual sites, b) improving the shared braai / campfire area, c) building a separate ablution facility.
Views 1   The campsite has been selected, not for specific views, but for its unique location within a forest area on the banks of the deurmekaarpoes river.
Shade  1  More than sufficient.
Facilities: upkeep, condition,  hygiene, comfort of bathrooms / showers / baths / toilets, campsites, cooking area / kitchen 1   The bungalow and camp share the same (single) facility. Providing for a maximum of 15 vehicles/camp sites - this is not sufficient. As a minimum recommendation, there should be separate facilities for each. An acceptable norm is 1 shower/toilet for every 5 vehicles / campsites.
Upkeep, condition , comfort and atmosphere of social area / Lapa 1   This is a shared area and lacks any specific appeal. The basics are provided for. Garden furniture is available.
Braai facilities 1   The various sites/stands shares a central braai area. Upgrading this facility is recommended.
Other noteworthy facilities / commentsElectricity can be provided for upon request.
Derek, it is my recommendation that you consider upgrading this area first before you build the new campsite. 
Count 05200The comments above should not be seen as criticism, but as recommendations to develop this to its full potential. It is situated in a truly beautiful area. Considerable improvements can be done with very little capital expenditure.
Score 010600
TOTAL SCORE FOR CAMPING 1635 
AVERAGE SCORE46%    
B 2.3: Evaluation:  bush camping 12345NOTES / COMMENTS
 
Overall impression     Not evaluated
Position / location     Not evaluated
Views     Not evaluated
Shade     Not evaluated
Braai facilities     Not evaluated
Other noteworthy facilities 
Count 00000 
Score 00000
TOTAL SCORE FOR BUSH CAMPING 025 
AVERAGE SCORE0%    
B: Evaluation summary
B 2.1Covered accommodation193554% 
B 2.2Formal camping163546% 
B 2.3Bush camping0250% 
           
Total score for accommodation
(To be carried forward)
357050% 
C: Drive Out Top 10 Assessment AnalysisOFFICE USE ONLY
 TallyTotal%Measured in terms of…
1Ability to maintain Interest and driving experience   Not Applicable
2Scenery    Position, Location and Views
3The richness of fauna and flora   Not Applicable
4Variety of attractions on offer   Variety of Accommodation Options
5Quality or appeal of camping or accommodation facilities   Total Score for Accommodation
6Commitment to preserving / rehabilitating the environment   Not Applicable
7Charisma or commitment of guides / owners   Upkeep, Maintenance and Overall Impression
8Value for money   Per person per night cost
9Wilderness or get-away-from-it-all experience.   Bush camping (Yes / No)

Section C: TRAIL ASSESSMENT
C1: ClassificationApplicableNumber ofProvides for 
Trail TypeDay tripThe trail can comfortably be done in less than 5 hoursYes215
WeekenderA minimum of 6 - 8 hours are required to complete the trail Accommodation / camping is available on routeYes--
ExtendedTwo or more days are required to complete the trailN--
Across the BorderRemote Destinations. Often in African countries. Drivers need to be completely self-sufficient for 3 days or more. Navigational experience is essentialNo--
Trail FocusScenicY-80%
AdventureN--
Eco-awarenessN--
EducationalN--
ChallengingY-20%
TrainingN--
TerrainMountainousY--
CoastalN--
WildernessN--
Mud / slipperyN--
Sand / dunesY--
ForestN--
Open plainsY--
Experience RequiredNoviceY--
CompetentY--
Expert --
Vehicle Restrictions4x2Suitable for 4x2 vehicles with diff-lockY--
SoftroadersSuitable for soft roaders (No low range & limited ground clearance)Y/N-Yes, but not Freelanders
ClearanceVehicles needs good ground clearanceY--
Diff-LockSuitable for vehicles without diff-lockY--
Low-rangeLow-range essential / requiredY/N-Yes for 4x4 trail
No for 4x2 Trail
QuadsQuad bikes are welcome / only on special request?   (Mark which)Y-Special Request only
Trail FacilitiesGuidingThis trail is self-drive onlyY--
A guide must / will accompany all drivers / vehiclesN--
Trail guides are available, but not obligatoryY--
RescueRescue services are available from the owners (Not to be called from town)N  
ShadeThere is shade on the route (e.g. shady spots to stop and stretch your legs)Y  
WaterSwimming is available:  (tick: pool, river, waterholes, waterfall, sea)Y--
Drinking water is available on the route or at accommodation facilityY-At accomo- dation only
CommunicationGood cell phone signalN Voda Com OK
Cell phone signal is weak or intermittentY MTN
Two-way radios available. Radio contact with reception / base possibleN -
NavigationMaps and basic navigational skills requiredN--
GPS Waypoints availableN--
GPS Navigational map and waypoints are available from Tracks-4-Africa. Y--
FuelFuel is available at the specified distance (how far from the route??Y-Robertson 30km
Diesel, petrol or both?Both--
AccommodationCamping facilities are availableYes--
Covered accommodation available (chalets, huts, house, lodge, etc.)Yes--
Food / catering available or there is a shop with supplies close by.No--
OtherConference facilities availableNo--
Environment-friendly practices are in place --
C 2: Difficulty rating
 
C 2.1: Grading12345NOTES / COMMENTS
Overall XX  First Mountain Circular Track = 2
2nd Mountain Circular Track = 3
Most difficult obstacle without an escape route  X   
Most difficult obstacle with an escape route  X   
What percentage of the trail is grade1,2,3 ,4 or 5 65%35%   
How does weather conditions affect the difficulty rating of the trail ?Some of the obstacles en-route will be more difficult, but without influencing the overall difficulty of the trail.
TRAIL RATING GUIDE
1EasyThis trail is suitable for 4x2's with a diff- lock, or Novices in soft-roaders
2Easy to moderateSome 4x4 driving and a four-wheel drive vehicle is necessary
3Moderate4x4 Driving experience and low range are recommended
4DifficultThis is challenging terrain, suitable for experienced drivers. Low range is essential, while recovery equipment and diff-lock are strongly recommended
5ExtremeThe trail is suitable only for off-road experts with serious 4x4’s, with recovery back up. It should Not be undertaken on your own
C3: EVALUATION
C 3.1: Reception & access control12345Notes / COMMENTS
 
Signage to find trail  1  No signage from Robertson except at the entrance to the trail. Following directions given by the owner, it is not difficult to find the trail.
Apply for an official Tourism Roadside Sign to be erected at the Agterkliphoogte turn-off.
Are guests received in person by the owner or his representative  1  Guests are received in person
Friendliness  1  Conforms to Standard
Efficiency (bookings / reception)  1  Conforms to Standard
Reception facilities 1   There are no formal reception facilities. Guest are received in person at either the campsite or at the beginning of the trail. Recommend a small reception area (even if only a dedicated area at the campsite) where a notice board-type structure can be erected with a map, rules & regulations etc. (Similar to Glen Oaks 4x4 trail)
Administration (Indemnity forms, access register completed) 1   An access register has to be completed.
Does the owner know who is on the trail and who has left - at all times 1   Not all the time. Access to the trial needs to be restricted by unauthorised persons.
Is assessment of vehicles done before visitors attempt the trail 1   No.
Is experience of driver tested before attempting the trail 1   No.
COMMENTS 
Count 05400 
Score 0101200
TOTAL SCORE FOR RECEPTION & ACCESS CONTROL2245 
AVERAGE SCORE49%    
C 3.2: Information provided to guests12345Notes / COMMENTS
 
Information of general interest supplied1    None
Information supplied of the trail specifically1    None
Navigational information supplied (MAPS, GPS Maps, Waypoints) 1   A small map is provided of the two trails.
Trail focus information supplied (See C2.1)1    None
       
COMMENTS 
Count 31000Derick, as discussed, I strongly recommend that more focus is given to this aspect as it would improve the overall rating of Zevenfontein considerably.
Score 32000
TOTAL SCORE FOR INFORMATION PROVIDED520 
AVERAGE SCORE25%    
C 3.3: Driving Experience12345Notes / COMMENTS
 
To what extend was the trail objective / vision of the trail owners achieved (Refer to C1: Trail Focus)   1 4x2 Trail='4' as it provides for a well-balanced trail with real 4x4 obstacles suitable for most 4x2 vehicles.
4x4 Trail="3"
Scenic or other interests on the trail  1  The trial provides for nice views of the valley below and the surrounding Riviersonderend mountains. The circular nature of the trial limits the scenic interest.
Ability of trail to maintain interest of guests  1  The various obstacles on the 4x2 trail and 2 sections on the main 4x4 trail can be quite challenging.
Shade 1   There is very limited shade en-route, except at the lunch stop-over spot on the 4x4 trail. Building a pit-type braai here would be a nice touch.
Water / swimming available 1   None on the trail.
Signage or guiding 1   Signage on the trail can be improved. 
COMMENTS 
Count 03210The 4x2 trail is one of the best around. I would recommend that more focus is placed on marketing it as such. It would provide for an excellent 4x2 training track - especially at "Oom Danie se Walle"
Score 06640
TOTAL SCORE FOR DRIVING EXPERIENCE1630 
AVERAGE SCORE53%    
C 3.4: Trail maintenance12345Notes / COMMENTS
 
Overall impression  / trail conditions 1   Fair.
Erosion repair1    There are a few sections where preventative maintenance is required. These has been pointed out.
Litter control  1  Overall very little litter was found alongside the trail as well as at the campsites.
Cutting back of bushes to prevent scratches 1   Bushes and scrubs along the final 2 sections of the 4x4 trail needs to be trimmed back - especially after the dry-riverbed crossing.
Alien control  1  No known invaders are evident.
       
COMMENTS 
Count 12200 
Score 14600
TOTAL SCORE FOR TRAIL MAINTENANCE1125 
AVERAGE SCORE44%    
 
C: Evaluation summary
C 2.1Reception and access control224549%15%7% 
C 2.2Information provided52025%10%3% 
C 2.2Driving experience163053%55%29% 
C 2.3Trail maintenance112544%20%9% 
TOTAL SCORE FOR TRAIL ASSESSMENT
(To be carried forward)
5412043%100%48%   
C: Drive Out Top 10 Assessment OFFICE USE ONLY
 TallyTotal%Notes / COMMENTS
1Ability to maintain Interest and driving experience   Driving Experience, Terrain and Trail Focus
2Scenery    Scenery
3The richness of fauna and flora   Scenery
4Variety of attractions on offer   Trail Type (Number of), Terrain Type, Experience Required
5Quality or appeal of camping or accommodation facilities   Not Applicable
6Commitment to preserving / rehabilitating the environment   Trail Maintenance
7Charisma or commitment of guides / owners   Trail Maintenance, Information Provided
8Value for money   Compare 1,2,3,4,5 against Trail Cost
9Wilderness or get-away-from-it-all experience.   Terrain Type, Navigational Experience Required

Section D: TRAIL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
D 1: Trail registration statusStatus Notes / comments
1Has the trail been registered with the Department of Environment and Tourism (DEAT)?No0-
2Has the trail been inspected by Nature Conservation?Yes5Vrolikheid Nature Conservation.
3Has there been a formal application by the Land Owner or by a specialist consultant?No0-
Total Score for registration status 5 
Trail owner's signature verifying that the above three points have been truthfully answered 
 
D 2: Land statusStatusNotes / comments
1Is the property or part thereof a World Heritage Site?No-
2Is the property privately owned, or is it under the control of a National of Provincial Body?NoPrivately owned farm
3Is the property or part thereof within the boundaries of an official Biosphere?No-
4National / Provincial Nature / Game Reserve? (Tick)No-
5Private Nature / Game Reserve (Tick)No-
6Any other official conservation / protection status applicable?No-
7Is the property on a farm and, if so, is it a working farm or dormant land?Working-
8Are there any protected fauna &flora, archaeology features, caves, Bushman paintings etc. found on the property?                      If yes, please specify the nature thereof Old "Ou Kaapse Wa Pad"
 
D 3: EVALUATION
 
D 3.1: Trail facilities12345NOTES / COMMENTS
 
Is the route and facilities laid out in an environmentally friendly way?  1  Conform to standard
Does the route reduce soil erosion? Are there erosion walls in place in steep sections and are these maintained? 1   There are sections on the 4x4 circular trail where erosion walls either needs to be build or that requires maintenance.
Are the areas around the campsite and accommodation in good condition (vegetation)  1  Acceptable condition. There is little or no environmental impact.
Are biodegradable products used?1    None is used. Visitors are required to be completely self-sufficient.
Are separate bins available for waste? Is non-degradable waste, e.g. glass, tin, plastic and other synthetic material disposed of on the property? Are visitors required to remove their own waste?   1  Single bins are provided.
COMMENTS 
Count 11300-
Score 12900
TOTAL SCORE FOR TRAIL FACILITIES1225 
AVERAGE SCORE48%    
 
D 3.2: Governance12345NOTES / COMMENTS
With regards to the following focus areas, are the governing structures, corresponding rules in place and is there appropriate signage / information to remind visitors thereof?  
Accommodation  1  Governed by the owner.
Driving Experience / Trail 1   Signage on the trail can be improved or, alternatively, the trail map showing the various start-/end points as well as the direction of the circular trails needs to be upgraded.
Environmental  1   There are no formal governance structures in place or information provided.
Safety  1  There are no dangerous sections on the trail.
Focus as defined in Section B (Trail Vision) 1   More information on the trail would be a definite plus.
COMMENTS 
Count 03200-
Score 06600
TOTAL SCORE FOR RULES & SIGNAGE1225 
AVERAGE SCORE48%    
 
D 3.3: Specific Rules and Signage
With regards to the overall implementation of the objectives below, are the governing structures, corresponding rules in place and is there appropriate signage / information to remind visitors thereof?  
Are the following rules in place and is there appropriate signage to remind visitors?Yes/NoScoreNote:
Only 1 yes = a 1 rating.
2/3 yes's = a 2 rating.
4/5 = a 3 rating.
6/7 = a 4 rating.
8/9 = a 5 rating.
Speed limit on the route and roadsNo 0
Banning of undue noiseNo 0
Firearms and shooting forbiddenNo 0
Collecting of firewood forbiddenNo 0
Collecting of any animal, plant, insect or rock forbiddenNo 0
Littering forbiddenYes 1
Fires only in designated areasYes 1
Driving only on existing tracks and roadsYes 1
Is there a comprehensive map showing sensitive areasNo 0
Comments 
Scale 12345-
Rating -X---
TOTAL SCORE FOR RULES & SIGNAGE25 
AVERAGE SCORE40%    
D 3.4: Implementation / procedures / practices  12345NOTES / COMMENTS
 
Are the above procedures and rules actually applied?  1  Although these procedures and rules are not formally communicated, there does not seem to be any related issues or concerns.
Are visitors briefed orally or on paper regarding the environmentally friendly approach on the property? 1   No
COMMENTS 
Count 01100-
Score 02300
TOTAL SCORE FOR INFORMATION PROVIDED510 
AVERAGE SCORE50%    
 
D: Evaluation Summary
D 1Trail registration status51533%5%2% 
D 3.1Trail facilities122548%50%24% 
D 3.2Governance122548%25%12% 
D 3.3Specific Rules and Signage2540%5%2% 
D 3.4Implementation, Procedures and practice51050%15%8%   
Total Score for Environmental Assessment
(To be carried forward)
368045%100%47%   
C: Drive Out Top 10 Assessment OFFICE USE ONLY
 TallyTotal%NOTES / COMMENTS
1Ability to maintain Interest and driving experience   Trail Facilities
2Scenery     
3The richness of fauna and flora   Land Status 3,4 & 8.
4Variety of attractions on offer   Land Status 1,2,3,4,5,6 & 8
5Quality or appeal of camping or accommodation facilities   Not Applicable
6Commitment to preserving / rehabilitating the environment   Registration Status
7Charisma or commitment of guides / owners   Governance
8Value for money   Not Applicable
9Wilderness or get-away-from-it-all experience.   Land Status 4,5

Section E: TICK THE ICONS APPLICABLE
This section provides a summary of the various aspects assessed elsewhere in the questionnaire. Please review, add comments and, if corrections are needed, change it at the original section.)
 DESCRIPTIONYES/ NOComments
1Suitable for 4x2'S with diff-lockYes-
2Suitable for soft-roaders (no low range & limited ground clearance)No-
3Vehicles need good ground clearanceYes-
4This trail is self-drive onlyYes-
5A guide must / will accompany all drivers / vehiclesNo-
6Trail guides are available, but not obligatoryYes-
7Rescue services are available from the owners (not to be called from town)No-
8Fuel is available at the specified distance (how far from the route?)YesRobertson, 35 km
9Diesel, petrol or both?Both-
10GPS Waypoints available? YesTracks4Africa
11Downloadable GPS Navigational Map and Waypoints are available from Tracks-4-Africa. (www.tracks4africa.co.za) YesYes
12Quad bikes are welcome / only on special request? (Indicate which)Yes-
13Good cell phone signal on the trailNo-
14Cell phone signal is weak or intermittent on the trailYes-
15Camping facilities are availableYes-
16Covered accommodation is available (chalets, huts, in a house, lodge, etc.)Yes-
17Food / catering available or there is a shop with supplies close to the route / trail / facilityNo-
18There is shade on the route (e.g. shady spots to stop and stretch your legs)YesThe 4x4 and 4x2 trail starts at the campsite where there is sufficient shade. 
19Swimming is available:  (tick: pool, river, waterholes, waterfall, sea)Yes-
20Drinking water is available on the route or at accommodation facilityYes-
21Conference facilities availableNo-
22Environment-friendly practices are in placeNo-

Section F: SUMMARY
 
B: AccommodationScoreMax% 
B 2.1Covered accommodation193554% 
B 2.2Formal camping (e.g. permanent tented camps)163546% 
B 2.3Bush camping0250% 
Total score for accommodation / out of:357050% 
 
C: Trail AssessmentScoreMax%WeightScore 
C 2.1Reception and access control224549%15%7% 
C 2.2Information provided52025%10%3% 
C 2.2Driving experience163053%55%29% 
C 2.3Trail maintenance112544%20%9% 
Total score for trail assessment5412043%100%48% 
 
D: Environmental AssessmentScoreMax%WeightScore 
D 1Trail registration status51533%5%2% 
D 3.1Trail facilities122548%50%24% 
D 3.2Governance122548%25%12% 
D 3.2Specific Rules and Signage2540%5%2% 
D 3.3Implementation, procedure and practice51050%15%8% 
Total Score for environmental assessment368045%100%47% 
 
E: Drive Out Top 10 Recommendation ScoreMax% 
Name and rate the  aspects of the route that stands out and which could be included in a future Top 10 List12345NOTES / COMMENTS
1Ability to maintain Interest and driving experience1     
2Scenery 1     
3The richness of fauna and flora1     
4Variety of attractions on offer1     
5Quality or appeal of camping or accommodation facilities1     
6Commitment to preserving / rehabilitating the environment1     
7Charisma or commitment of guides / owners1     
8Value for money  1  The trail and accomodation provides good value for money.
9Wilderness or get-away-from-it-all experience.1     
Count 80100 
Score 80300
TOTAL 1145    
AVERAGE SCORE24%    
 
E: Final scoreTotalWeightScore 
1Average Assessment percentage 48%60%29% 
2Tester's personal score out of 10060%30%18%
3Drive Out Top 10 Recommendation24%10%2%
FINAL SCORE44%100%49%
 
 
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