BIATHLON IN OUDTSHOORN.
The first weekend of February started off with a trip to Oudtshoorn. Ally & I had qualified for EP Biathlon. Ally was now in the U11 age group and it was making it very difficult for her to be competitive as many of the others in this group were already 10 or 11 while she was only 9 years old.
On the Friday morning Ally would be receiving a certificate for Hip Hop and I went to watch this acknowledgement that would take place in her assembly. I am not sure if it was here or somewhere else but after the assembly I developed a sore hip. This worried me the whole morning and when it came to time for us to leave I was in a lot of pain.
Barbara took over driving at Joubertina. Coincidently Ian phoned us from Frankfurt while we were changing places. He told us of a farm that he would like us to look at in Uniondale called Mannetjiesberg. We were not able to get there as the agent could not arrange it at such short notice. It seems that all the places that Ian is considering need a 4X4 to get there. This brings the price down but makes access difficult and Ian will have to make a decision regarding this aspect.
Ally slept most of the way there. We arrived in Oudtshoorn at about 18.00. It is about a four hour drive or 360 kays from PE. We were booked into a Chalet next to Alex and Lynn Odendal (Lara and Meghan). Ally was delighted to meet up with her friends.
I was still in a lot of pain so they went off for supper and we found a clinic where I asked for a Voltaren Injection. When they wanted to call a doctor and charge me exorbitant and overtime rates I established that the Pharmacy would still be open and that we could buy the necessary at the pharmacy. The pharmacist sold me a generic, a syringe and swab all for under R10.00 and the sister at the clinic happily did the injection for free. I was able to save a good three to four hundred rand and in the end received the same treatment. In a little while I was able to move a lot easier and had a good nights rest.
The next morning I decided that I would not take part in the event. Ally and her friends did well in their run of 800m. Barbara keeps times on her cell phone and it seems that they had bettered or equalled their best times. In my age group Chris Jansen did a 4min kay and I normally am able to keep up with him. Markus Burri and his son Emilio also took part. When it came to the swim Ally did particularly well in her heat winning the heat in a time of 44secs. It gave her a real boost to win the heat. Meghan and Lara all did well with Lara cutting seconds off her last time. The U9.s was the last to swim and after the final event we left for PE. It had been a long hot day. We were able to leave Oudtshoorn at about 15.00.
Ally had arranged to travel with Alex and Lynn who were going to St Francis Bay. We gave a lift to a young chap called Koot who is from the Marlow College. This is an Agricultural college in Cradock. He was in Matric and doing maths and science. He plans to register for Stellenbosch University next year for law and accounting subjects. His parents live on a farm in Queenstown and his Dad is a Dentist there. We dropped him off in Humansdorp where he met up with friends.
Ian called us on the return trip and again, this time from Paris. We discussed the farms that may be interesting to buy as conservation land. Linda Olivier from Steytlerville had called us and told us of some potential farms. Later that afternoon we were able to view her website and look at pictures of some of the farms that she had available. En route we also spoke to Keith in Clarens where he has shares in a 250 hectare farm. He had recently finished fencing the farms and had sold off the cattle. He now plans to stock the farm with game. He suggested that we plan a trip there as soon as possible.
Ena had just got home from an eight day trip with her friend Anne. They had been to Port Elizabeth where they came to visit us. It was Ena’s first visit to us in PE for over ten years. They passed through Steytlerville and then Johannesburg, Durban and back to Steytlerville before heading back to Plett. They had seen Ian Spence who had recently had an operation to help him with his hip problems and to help him walk. Christine was in SA and was on some Canoe trail. They visited Patrick and Puck in Natal. They also visited a number of Anne’s friends and Anne’s Daughter who lives in Steytlerville. It had been a good trip for Ena.
Nippers on Sunday had been a huge improvement on the previous two Sundays as there was a West wind blowing and we could do some water exercises. Unfortunately there were only a small contingent of Nippers due to the Herald Cycle tour. Matthew Hobson had his Mom Rietjie there. Matthew comes from a Cricketing family as his dad is Larry Hobson who played for Eastern Province and English County Cricket. Matthew is a plucky boy of only seven. Carli Marriot (no relation to Peter) is an 8 year old single parent child who is very timid but I think can be pushed gently. Chloe Shelton is an Ex Jhb child new to PE and Nippers. Also there was William Conradie, Christian, Cailtin, Amber, Maurice, Kei, Matthew H was not feeling too well. A couple of new youngsters who have still to join made up numbers.
Cathy won a trip to Thailand at work (Flight Centre) and left on Wednesday and returns on Monday. A short trip of 5 days but should be an experience to remember. Cathy was recently promoted from assistant Branch Manager in one of the branches to Manager in another.
These emails from Thailand tell a story:
Hi All,
I quickly ran to business lounge to let everyone know that I am here safe and sound.
Having such a blast. This is such a great experience!
But lack serious sleep.
On our way to the temples and stuff today and then tomorrow we go on a boat to another island.
I bought a disposable camera but I am useless at telling when I need a flash or not so we will just have to see how they come out.
Hope you all well.
Love you!
Hi Dad,
This is the last time I will get to email...
We went on a loooong speed boat today and went and fed cat fish and went to the temples. Then went to the Buddha. Really had a good day. Tomorrow we are taking a long drive out of Bangkok and then taking another speed boat to another island. I forget the name. We are hoping to be able to go jet skiing and also parasailing. I hope it all works out well for that.
Went to Patong market last night ... did some good bargaining. I have been battling to find shirts for you. I would rather buy nothing than something I know you won’t ever wear. We go back tomorrow night so will search again for you then. I think I could get into this bargain thingy, I was a tough customer and got a few things at really great prices:)
Our hotel is a block away from the red light district so we took a walk through it yesterday ... sooo dodgy! but what an experience!
We are going to the tourist area tonight. Again I forget the name. It a road where all the tourists hang out.
Anyway, I must be off... we are going Mexican style tonight with some good Mexican food, and a live Mexican band and a dose of Mexican tequila...
(Okay scrap the tequila part for me) but it should be good.
Love you all.
Catherine
Meanwhile Michael stays in Knysna and Lene & Children in PE. He is battling with this and is in the process of searching for alternative employment in PE to bring him closer to home.
An email from Nicci tells some of her news:
It's been a lovely rainy day! The wood is here and there is building going on in the garage. We now have a carport, so it's really coming in handy!
This morning I took Chris to go look at a school for next year. I'm not convinced that where I have him enrolled at the moment is going to be the best place.
The place I took him is called Phisantekraal and it's a farm school. They do things like (you'll have to translate):
Wingerd: pars-/ snoeityd / wynmaak
Graan: saai- / oestyd
Skape: skeer- /lamtyd
Beesboerdery
They milk cows and go for walks in the vineyard. I think it's going to be much better there. It's about a 10min drive from home, but apparently all the kids are in liftclubs.
Also, I'm going to take Chris and Aaron to check out a farm playschool on Monday www.clevercats.co.za - you can have a look.
We're making a butternut soup for dinner, so I better start peeling and boiling.
We have a possible wedding in the Northern Province - an Indian wedding over 3 days. I'm waiting to see if they book us.
I better go help hold wood or something.
Have a lovely weekend everyone.
Nics
The following week in February was once of contrasts. We had some extremely hot weather and then at the end of the week we had heavy winds and rain. On Wednesday evening the Pakistan Cricket team was in PE and batted first scoring a credible 350 runs but the SA team never got to bat as the match was rained out. Barbara & I continued to watch the second series of 24 in the evenings. Barbara bought Ally a set of Drums. She wants to be in the band at school playing drums. It will be interesting to see how this develops. Of course I enjoy “playing” just as much as she does.
SA played a number of Super 14 rugby matches but overall seem to struggle with the power of the NZ and Australian teams. I was busy trying to put together a replacement Cell Group as our old Cell Group has disbanded. I was able to run the whole week except for Tuesday when I was in King.
On Saturday morning I did a two hour run to the beach and then attended Men’s Group Breakfast where we listened to Derrick Jordan talking about his trip to India. Most Interesting. On Sunday morning I was able to get back onto the bicycle and Ron & I enjoyed a relaxed cycle from his house to just past willows and back. The wind really started to pick up and by the time we started with Nippers it was blowing and raining. We still had a few hardy youngsters with plenty of Dads who braved the huge surf. In the end it was the Dads who took to Body Boards and had some great rides. Barbara & I spent the afternoon watching 24 listening to the rain and wind lashing at the trees outside. Later that afternoon I entered the Corporate Triathlon (Marshmellowman!). Either I or Ally will enter for the River mile at Redhouse. Depends if I will be allowed to swim with her.
Another email from Nicci tells us what she is busy with now:
Hi Dad,
Sounds like a good PE weekend on your side. Don't worry, you still have many hours of 24 left. We got to series 18 on Season 5 and they we don't have 18-24 yes, so we're giving it a break until we do. Then it's Season 6, which we have a few of, but that is still currently being shown in the US so we can only get the episodes as they finish there.
Once you've finished that then there is Prison Break to start, which is apparently extremely good.
The set is going well. I didn't realise how much hard work it would be. Basically we're building 5 boxes and 6 screens. That means each box had to be nailed together, then wood filler to make it smooth, then sanded, then filled again and sanded. The screens all have frames on the inside with hardboard on each side. These need to be sanded, filled, and sanded again. Then the whole lot needs at least 2 or 3 coats of paint. It's really lots of work and we worked the whole weekend and we're still far from finished.
Let’s hope the nanny pitches this morning and we don't have a repeat of last week. There are lots on this week and it will be another disaster if she's not here. I'm taking the boys to check out a nursery this morning. A farm nursery called Clever Cats. Then I'm taking them to visit a friend later. Tomorrow is bible school and Wednesday the Josh Gen moms are meeting here at our place. Thurs is Playball and Friday is Christians' Red Cross appointment, then we're going through to spend the night in Ceres. Stefan has a wedding in Tulbach on Fri afternoon, so I'll take the kids through to Ceres and wait for him there.
Friday night we had Shane and Marian for dinner. It was so nice to catch up with Shane, I forgot how many memories we have together! You know, he really thinks the world of you Dad and the whole family. You were a real mentor to him and he says that the biggest thing that he learnt from you was Relationship. How you and Ron and Paddie Carolin used to sit around the braai. He loved that. His wife is really nice! I was worried that she was not going to be somebody I would relate to, but she's very outdoorish and friendly. We plan to do some mountain biking with them.
Please pray that we can get some bookings this week. We have so many expenses with not much work yet. Love you!
Nics
And Jacqui in London:
hi dad, mom and ally cats
how was the weekend in the Giddy Res?
our weekend was nice, we took Emily to the pool again yesterday, she really loved it. I lay her on a small kicking board on her tummy and she swam around like that. I was showing how to put her head in the water and blow bubbles - she put her face in the water and then drank the water...she thought it was hilarious!!!
We had some people over for brunch yesterday and then I did some work on my thesis as well.
Love you all....chat soon.
jacs
ps. how is Michael doing in Knysna..? pls send him my love...
Ian has been looking to purchase a Conservation Farm and had made an offer for Diep Rivier near to Plett. That fell through this week as the owner is not prepared to sell. There are other options we will look at.
Some of the developments regarding the conservation property are explained in these emails:
Hi Peter,
Thanks for all the suggestions. If something like this comes through we like your idea of a 4x4 for about R50k, and we're glad to keep up a dialogue with Linda Olivier.
In fact Jenny wrote to her yesterday with a number of questions about KwaZunga. I'll forward her letter. You can discuss these if she talks to you on the phone again. We are open to further discussions if the seller is negotiable on the price.
Also I set up a 1-page web site that describes our goals, more or less in line with what I wrote to you before. The URL is:
wildcape.org
We continue to investigate several possibilities, and are open to more ideas. We'll keep you in touch on everything.
Ian
Ian, Jenny et al
Barbara & I have hiked a trail called the KwaZunga Hiking trail in that area so we have a fair idea of where it is. It is quite some years ago but we remember it to be a hilly course. The trail was on a farm. It was a one night trail with the overnight hut being a shack next to the river.
I have, today, spoken to Linda Olivier.
The only work day which Barbara & I can meet there is on a Wednesday. On Wed 21st the Owner is in JHB and so we have arranged to meet on Wednesday 28th Feb. We will both take the day off for this trip.
Barbara will take her stills camera and I have a video camera. I will take measurements of time to get there etc and try to get a real feel for the access and the property itself.
Let me know if there are any specifics that I should be on the lookout for.
Peter
16.2.2007.
This is even better - cycads and yellowwood nogal ! Adjacent nature reserve a' la' Cloudbridge
Sounds like a valuable watershed terrain.
Roger G
Dear Peter and Barbara, Roger and Tory, and Roger and Gael,
Just to bring you all up to date with our current conservation property of interest.
It’s a 1500 hectare mountainous property about 60-70 km from Port Elizabeth, neighbouring the Groendal Reserve. We aren’t sending you any more pics, as it might be easier for your Internet to look at them online – see http://picasaweb.google.com/ian.giddy/Kwazunga
We are quite excited about it as we learn more, and see the pictures. Beautiful river and waterfalls. I think the Kwazunga River becomes the Worktops River, so this does seem to be an important watershed for the Eastern Cape.
There seems to be a very active group Friends of Groendal which helps take out alien vegetation in the adjoining reserve. http://www.nmmu.ac.za/mountain/Frog.htm#F.R.O.G
We could learn a lot from them. They have a site link from the UPE Mountain Hiking group website. Lots of pictures there also show the terrain, reveal aspects to watch out for, such as the necessity of gates to keep out the party-goers.
Interesting to read that there is a dam there (Groendal) frequented by fishermen.
Linda is adamant that access is only possible with a 4x4. I know one of us (you know who you are!) is itching to get his hands on a 4wd vehicle again so he can relive his glory days in the bush – no charging rhinos here, Rog! so I’m sure we will be able to find something to share in the future.
The difficulty with this property is the price. Possibly it is negotiable.
Roger Gray, from an environmentalist’s point of view – what do you think of this property? (We are thrilled with the number of cycads!)
Peter, Ian is so busy with his course preparation, and he flies to Nicaragua in a couple of hours, so he has asked me to write to you and see if you can arrange with Linda Olivier to visit the property at some stage. I think she could meet you somewhere nearby and from there you would drive with her to the farm in a 4wd.
Let us know if this is possible some time in the next couple of weeks. We will be able to visit it with Roger & Tory the last week of March.
Thanks Peter,
Jenny
HI Jenny
The answers below comes from the owner of the property.
Could you give us the coordinates of the corners of the property so we can look on Google Earth at it?
The Google Earth coordinates are roughly (not accurate at all and would have to be validated by maps and survey marks) :
NW corner mark: 33° 38’ 52,49’’ S
25° 07’ 06,18’’ E
NE corner mark: 33° 40’ 02,52’’ S
25° 10’ 56,12’’ E
SW corner mark: 33° 42’ 02,12’’ S
25° 05’ 10,68’’ E
SE corner mark: 33° 43’ 13,24’’ S
25° 08’ 31,58’’ E
My brother-in-law Peter is concerned as he does not have a 4-wd vehicle. He has a high suspension car – would he be able to visit the property in that?
Yes, it is strictly four x four country which is largely responsible for the crime-free status of the farm.
Are there any special characteristic s or restrictions on the property?
Yes, in respect of special characteristics, the farm is one of the few remaining pristine wilderness areas left in the country and enjoys roughly 2 000 large cycads and numerous yellowwood trees. It has nearly 10 kilometres of clean river flowing through the properties which we pump for drinking purposes. The special nature of this farm deserves a visit to appreciate the beauty as words can’t do justice.
Do you know anything about the neighboring farms or properties?
Yes, it is bounded on the north and eastern sides by San Parks owned land (30 000 hectare reserve) and to the west by a Johannesburg based chap who hails from the Eastern Cape who owns around 20 000 hectares. To the south is property owned by a gentleman who died 2 or 3 months back by the name of John Whitehead and his son, Donovan has no intention of selling
Is access to the property through other farms?
Yes, through the Whitehead property and a small 80 hectares piece that is owned by Thomas Pitchman who we have a wonderful relationship with.
If we wanted to put a cabin on the property, would we have to improve the road so that a log cabin company truck could get through?
No, the road is what it is and any building materials would have to be carted up using a tractor and trailer.
What is this area like with regard to security and land claims?
Security is superb largely because of access difficulty and there are NO land claims anywhere close by.
Also, do you have any other properties of a similar nature? Perhaps a bit smaller?
Smaller yes, but not of a similar nature. Please see attached pics. It is 887 ha mountains with fynbos and rooigras R1,35m Vat excluded.
Hope to hear from you soon.
Linda
A further email from Ian explains some of his questions regarding the KwaZunga Property:
Dear Linda,
Thank you very much for following up on our questions regarding the Kwazunga property. This kind of information makes it much easier for us to judge and compare our options, and your responsiveness to our queries is gratifying.
We are pleased to hear that you have managed to set up a visit by by Peter and Barbara. We look forward to hearing their impressions. As you know an issue is the price, and at some point I would like to have a telephone discussion with you about this and related issues.
Meanwhile we have one or two follow-up questions.
1. Can you track down the surveyor's plan? This would have the coordinates of the boundary markers. As far as I know this is something any surveyor's office should be able to get a copy of, and most likely the owner has a copy.
2. Does the owner also own the farm to the west of the piece he's selling? Or what? He mentioned "we pump drinking water from the river" and we were not sure where they do that.
3. I asked about whether there were any restrictions on the property's use - by that I meant conservation restrictions, or watershed restrictions, or any other.
4. Access: although it's though others' farms, is there in principle public access to the property? If not, how are rights of access through the other farms spelled out? If you are not able to answer this question precisely, I will understand, but it's something we would need to clarify.
Thanks again for your responsiveness.
Ian
Ian
Who is Roger Gray?
Seems that he knows something about the wilderness.
Peter
15.2.2007.
Hi Peter,
Roger Gray is the brother of a close friend of mine from UCT days, Diana Hurter. (She was married to Eric Hurter from PE). Roger and his wife Gael own a fynbos nursery covering a hillside – I forget how many acres – maybe 50? near Cape Point. He is a very strong environmentalist and knows lots of contacts he has put us in touch with. His son Tom helps him with the nursery, and his daughter Emma is in her final year of Environmental Science at UCT.
Jenny
And here is something that Ally wrote at her Friday evening Guild :Link;
A BEST FRIEND?
Ally Giddy writes:
"Someone who sticks by your side
Kind, Helpful and trustworthy
Supports you, loving, happy and playful."
Weekend of 16 Feb: Ally goes to Link, Peter & Barbara start the third series of 24. Saturday morning: Peter does his first 32kay run since Rhodes last year. With Gerald, Robyn, Claire and I met Shenley. This is the man who sold his tri-bars to Tim two years ago. Tim often spoke about Shenley. He is a big man of over 6ft and is presently a bit overweight. He tells me that he is training for an Ironman in Australia at the end of the year. He is a Christian minister with the Word of Faith church. Unfortunately he dropped back and we were not able to finish our conversations. The 32kay took us just over 6mins a kay which we were quite happy with. Ally had a Gala at Gelvandale. Friday afternoon and Saturday afternoon there were a number of Super 14 Rugby matches. I am pretty sure that this was the very first time that every sA team beat their Australian and NZ opponents. Quite a triumph for SA Rugby. Sunday morning I met Ron & Ben for a cycle. This was the third time we had met since I got back on the bike after a long lay off. We cycled into the West wind to Schoenmakerskop and then had fun as we cycled back with the wind. “That is what biking is all about” says Ben. It was the River Mile that afternoon but due to being slow to enter I decided that I would not swim this year. During Church Ally was feeling ill and she & I skipped Nippers.
Email from Nicci:
Hi
I need some help please. I need to gather some information to support the work the doctors are doing to diagnose Christian. The doctors are looking into a couple of different things one being low muscle tone and the other dystonia.
Christians symptoms:
Unstable on his feet
Unable to sit up straight unaided
Not able to stand still
Drooling
I need to gather more information regarding the following:
- I need more info about Gail especially the Limb Girl diagnosis. E.g. Was it an actual diagnosis or just a suggested diagnosis? When was it diagnosed?
- Does anybody in the family suffer from spasm and is anybody besides me a toe walker? Dad, Stefan thinks that you have a tendency to walk more on your toes, is he right?
- Was is Cale that was diagnosed with the centre gravity thing? What is it called? Is it a proper diagnosis and when was it diagnosed? Is there anything else about this condition and his symptoms that might help us with Chris' diagnosis?
- Joans' daughter was diagnosed with low muscle tone when she was younger. I need more details about this. When and where was she diagnosed? What is her name and how old is she now? Has anybody else been diagnosed with this?
I am trying to put together a detailed medical story about Chris. As I go along I remember stuff, but if there is anything that you can remember or noticed please let me know. Even if it doesn't seem relevant it might help.
Please can you forward this on to the family who might be able to fill in the gaps in the family medical history regarding any muscular/movement problems.
Thank you for your help.
Niki
Here is an email that I received from Johan Sadie who until recently has been my immediate manager for the past five or more years:
hi peter
...it's been a long time we been around...
...even prior to my 'boss-job' ... you've been around...
...the 'launch 0ct 06'... and travel was my last mission as SUPERMAN...
...i knew it at the time - because my mind was made up even then...
....and i sucked-up and treasured the moments as i travelled...
p e will always be special...
dizzy dolphin - stir-fry veggies and rod steward songs...
red wine and gentle breakers...
at times a whale or two...
barneys r.n.rolllll.............
the incredible sea front...
the garage pies at 23h00...
and the rest...... that gauties will not understand...
lifts back doors and smoke breaks at p e c
parking up the drive at n e
feeling 'at home' in cleary (like cape town)
the parking buildings and so forth at u t
driving and snoring to KWT....
'...al lê die berge nog so blou...'
before that profurn-time...
the pain of feathertown...
and killing of George...
I regret not one moment in your company...
I treasure the braai and theatre 'family' moments you shared with me...
'I spy' with ally going to work....
.. There is too much to mention...
PETER
Thanks for being who and what you are...
I will not miss the (whatever............................................................)
But i will miss the people:
Jenny the 'ma'am'... a lady no doubt.... (reminded me often of my Matric miss beneke and Shakespeare)
marius ???Greg??? ......
...die helde in die winkels...
...not just numbers in the jdg payroll ...
...but a place in my heart....
...die ander ... ook in my hart maar die e -mail is te kort..!
In my woorde;
Peter, jy was moerse...
Jou hart en 'guts' was reg...
But;
Despite all the stuff above...
Thanks Peter for making ME feel good some times...
You know it is not just a '...by-the-way...' comment
... but a REAL prayer...
'...may GOD bless you...'
Groete
Sadie
PS
Love you Boet...
More on the Kwa Zunga Farm:
Subject: Re: Conservation Property
Thanks again for the direct answers, Linda. We look forward to receiving the map/coordinates.
Ian
On 2/19/07, Linda Olivier
Dear Ian
Answers to your questions as per the owner. I have ordered a map, but is still waiting for it.
1. I will forward the coordinates as soon as I have received the Title Deeds.
2. No the owner owns 3000 ha and he intends to sell the western 1564ha of that (one title). The farm west of that belongs to Whitehead.
3. The farm is zoned agriculture and the use thereof is governed as such. You are not entitled to subdivide for example and may only build a limited number of dwellings etc. At this moment I can’t tell you anything about water rights.
4. The access to the two farms is by way of servitude registered in favour of the farm. This access is clearly detailed in the pertinent title deeds.
Jenny said that the two of you would like to hike there. I did not take the pictures myself therefore I think it is a good idea that you go in and see for yourself.
Attached is another nice picture for you.
Regards,
Linda
Dear Linda,
Thank you very much for following up on our questions regarding the Kwazunga property. This kind of information makes it much easier for us to judge and compare our options and your responsiveness to our queries is gratifying.
We are pleased to hear that you have managed to set up a visit by by Peter and Barbara. We look forward to hearing their impressions. As you know an issue is the price, and at some point I would like to have a telephone discussion with you about this and related issues.
Meanwhile we have one or two follow-up questions.
1. Can you track down the surveyor's plan? This would have the coordinates of the boundary markers. As far as I know this is something any surveyor's office should be able to get a copy of, and most likely the owner has a copy.
2. Does the owner also own the farm to the west of the piece he's selling? Or what? He mentioned "we pump drinking water from the river" and we were not sure where they do that.
3. I asked about whether there were any restrictions on the property's use - by that I meant conservation restrictions, or watershed restrictions, or any other.
4. Access: although it's though others' farms, is there in principle public access to the property? If not, how are rights of access through the other farms spelled out? If you are not able to answer this question precisely, I will understand, but it's something we would need to clarify.
Thanks again for your responsiveness.
Ian
Nippers plays a big part of our lives during summer. I am presently a coach for the U10’s. Also involved are: Hannes Zeelie, Roger Fraser, Craig van Greunen, Craig Vaughn, Alex Odendal and others. One of the parents wrote this email:
Hi Peter
Thank you to you & your team for all their dedication & hard work on Sunday. Us & our kids commented on what inspiration the trainers provided. We are very lucky to have such a capable group of instructors & organisers at Summerstrand Lifesavers Club.
Larry & Rietjie Hobson
And news from Ian:
Patrick and Peter,
Jenny and I have decided to put some roots in SA. Together with Roger and Tory, we are buying a cottage in a 400 ha eco-reserve called Springerbaai near Mossel Bay. You can see pictures at http://picasaweb.google.com/ian.giddy/Springerbaai
You'll be able to use it too -- purchase has not yet gone through, and we'll tell you more about it in due course.
Love,
Ian
ACHILLES 42kay MARATHON
Helpers Run. Sunday 25th February 2007.
Running a Marathon is really hard work. I don’t do too many of this distance anymore. In Fact I don’t do too much of any distance anymore.
A helpers run is all about the seconds. Firstly the Hero of the day has got to be Paulette as the main organiser. Then there are all her helpers: Peter, Liesel, Karel and Milka who was out there despite feeling awful that morning, Bradley, Percy, Michael B who I hear has recently joined Achilles, Cathy, Johan on the BMW, Kosima, John on the Bicycle and any others whose names I have forgotten.
The race starts at the Homeleigh Farms complex. As we got there Graham pointed out that we had forgotten to advise the owner that we would be running the helpers run today and he thought that we were intruders as he had had a scare the previous evening. We started a few minutes late at about 05.40 and realised that the dark morning was not exactly conducive to running on the dirt road. Moff has not been running marathons for sometime and he started really slowly at the back of the field.
I felt that we had started a bit too fast but we were running with the wind and overall it seemed to be downhill for the first 9kays. At this stage it was Liz, Graham N, Ian and myself. We had Pat on the bike to keep us company. Pat and Ian have entered the Ironman that would be taking place in a month. Ian was concerned about the run section and this was his confidence booster to assure himself that he can complete the distance. As we ran down Montmeedy road past the riding club we passed Allan and Butch who were also on an Ironman Training run.
We kind of stuck together and saw that Tom had fallen off the group ahead of us. He still seemed to be running strongly and it was a long time before we eventually caught him on the way up Kragga Kamma. Graham would grab a water bottle and go. This put pressure on the rest of our little group to try to stay with him. I am used to having a nice little stop, chat and drink my coke at a leisurely pace. But with Graham setting a cracking pace we had no option but to try to stay with him. I know from previous runs that Liz seems to get stronger as the race progresses.
There was a brisk Westerly wind and this took its toll on me. As we reached Butterfield Road and the first real uphill all morning I was battling to stay with the group. Pat had put on her running gear and was on fresh legs pushing the already tough pace. You can surely picture Pat with that easy long stride she has and the rest of us doing the “miserable marathon shuffle”. “Ah what the heck?” I thought, “Take a walk”. Tom looked horrified and the rest of the group pressed on. I regained my composure as we crested the hill and was able to catch the group. Just before the right turn into Lakeside road there is a farm on the right hand side where we see Springbok. Everyone comments: “This is a great route. There are no real up hills to talk about. The company and the scenery has been good. Running through farms lands and in the country side is such a privilege”.
We then ran together along the Lakeside road. As we passed a farmyard we saw a herd of cows that looked in extreme discomfort as they looked as if they had not been milked for sometime. As we turned right into the road that leads up to the Old Cape Road I realised that I was seeing the last of the group. Liz had told us that she would have to do the shopping that afternoon and that Jock would probably be lazing away at home. The thought made me quite envious.
We still had about 20kays to go and Graham was leading the group to an even faster pace. It was then Left along Cape Road and left again down the Draaifontein road. This was a long tough section for me. We met up with Bradley and I had a squeegee Goo. This gave Tom the break he was looking for and off he sped into the distance. The West wind was into our faces and I was just counting off the kays. I think that this section is about 4 or 5kays.
Then it was left again in an Easterly direction and the wind now on our backs for the next 12kays. It was around here that Paulette drove past. “Where are my Achillean articles?” she demanded. Okay Paulette; well here at least is an attempt. I met up with Karel who had faithfully waited for Moff and myself even though Milka was feeling terrible. I tried a few times to catch Tom but he was relentless and I was walking on a more or less regular basis now. It was about here that the lightening and thunder started and we had a few drops of rain. It was a little scary for me.
Then I was greeted by Peter & Liesel with only 6 kays to go. Doesn’t sound like much but I was tired and had to force myself to go on each time. We turned right in to Lakeside road and I again was concerned to see that the cows were still looking as if they needed milking. Later on I reported this state of affairs to Hannes at Animal Welfare. Bradley was manning the last water table. I stopped for a last rest, drank my water and coke with relish and looked to see if I could see Moff behind me. I had heard that he was not too far behind and trying desperately to avoid the Toilet Seat.
The Toilet Seat is an award given to the last Achillean at our marathon. It had been stolen by Mark Raubenheimer from the ruins of the old Marist Brothers School and he had made this into a trophy. I have been second to last on a few previous occasions. I remember one time when Ron Pask and I had been running together and after a while he left me. He got a bit lost and when I saw him I hailed him to wait. Being the good friend that he is he waited and then with less than a Kay to go I went as hard as I could to avoid the Toilet seat. Then there was another time when I had run with Jock Sutherland and managed to pip him at the post as well.
Anyway I pressed on. Kosima drove past and could see how I was hanging on and called out: “Vasbyt Peter. Be strong” Runners really appreciate words of encouragement like this. Bradley drove past and gave me some absolutely devastating news; Moff had bailed! My heart sunk. Finally the toilet seat & I were to be together for a whole year. “Just joking” said Bradley. Skunk!
The final few kays of this race are a dream; mainly down hill and with the Westerly behind you. I had not really been keeping time. All I wanted was to be able to prove to myself that I could still run the distance in my preparation for Two Oceans which I had bailed the previous year. Across Kragga Kamma Road and into the Homeleigh Farms dirt road. Johan comes past on the bike and says: “I know how you feel Peter”. Mmmm! I am not too sure that he really did at that stage. Anyway on I press and make a grand entrance to the field with the Achilles Group waiting to see if it was to be Moff or Peter who would take the toilet seat home today. I had beaten Moff with a 4H37min time. This may not sound too good to all you young and fit athletes but for me I was delighted to be able to complete a marathon within the time limit.
From there I had to rush off as I am a Nippers coach and we were having a Mini Carnival that morning and I know that Ally would be expecting me to help her. Just as well that I was able to be there as the surf was Huge and we needed all the adults in the water that we could muster. I was not much help in the waves as I was cramping and certainly could not take part in the running.
Cathy received a Job Offer and so will be leaving Flight Centre where she was manager and will, from 1 April 2007 work for another tourist company. We will receive more details as she has them.
Hi Catherine
Ye sorry I was going to get back to everyone tomorrow.
I can just give you a quick heads up that we will be sending you an offer of employment tomorrow.
Just to let you know we are offering R6000.00 as a basic together with an uplift for 6 months of R2000.00 Thus for the first 6 months you will be earning a total of R8000.00 thereafter you will be back on a basic of R6000.00 but then plus your 10% commission on the gross profit of all your bookings.
We have regular performance reviews were you are evaluated and to progress your growth. I will give you more detail in the offer letter and covering e-mail that you will receive tomorrow or the day after.
We are really looking forward to you starting on the 2nd April.
Please let me know should you have any queries.
Regards,
Helene Theron
And here is Nicci celebrating a Wedding Booking that they received today:
Hi
We just got a lovely R20 000 booking! Yay! Thank you for your prayers!
Niki @
Photo & Video Productions
Some news from Patrick:
That's quite something, Peter. And you were still up for going to the beach!!!
I've now found the university swimming pool, so the hour and a half I have to wait for Isabelle at ballet can be used for swimming. Well, I haven't worked out how to swim for long periods, my colleague tells me that after 15 min your mind takes off and you meditate. I have to reach the 15min mark, I think.
Dom has his visa, well its in Pta so we're trying to get him on the plane.
Isabelle has got a boy but no dress, as yet, for Matric dance (April) St John plays the steel drum thing, loves it.
I had my Washington friend over for the w/end, quite something new.
Cheers
Patrick
It was both Dawn, Barbara & Nicci Birthday: Here is Barbara’s birthday message to Dawn:
HI DAWN,
SORRY I DIDN’T GET HOLD OF YOU ON YOUR BIRTHDAY, BUT I WAS IN CAPE TOWN CELEBRATING NIX 30TH.
HOPE YOU HAD A GREAT DAY WITH YOUR FAMILY AND WERE SPOILT ROTTEN.
WE REALLY ARE AGEING AREN’T WE? I WAS LOOKING AT DIGBY THE OTHER DAY AND THINKING THAT HE MIGHT WELL BE MY LAST DOG I BUY, PRESUMING THAT HE LIVES TO FIFTEEN ODD YEARS WHICH WOULD TAKE ME TO 70, AND IT WOULD BE UNFAIR TO GET A NEW DOG AT THAT AGE (NO GUARANTEE OF A LONG INNINGS AT THAT AGE)
I MUST SAY I FELT LIKE DAD WHEN I HAD THOSE THOUGHTS.
DID GAIL TELL YOU THAT HER AND KAREN HAVE GOT NEW JOBS. I THINK JOHNNY MESSED THEM BOTH AROUND ONCE TO OFTEN. I AM QUITE KEEN TO BUY BOUNCE PROMOTIONS FROM J AND HE CAN CARRY ON EARNING HIS LIVING FROM PLAYING. I WILL THEN LET GAIL DO THE ADVERTISING OVER THE PHONE IN HER SPARE TIME AND SPLIT THE PROFITS WITH HER.
OFF TO BED. SPEAK TO YOU LATER. LOVE TO ALL
Hi Peter
Thank you to you & your team for all their dedication & hard work on Sunday. Us & our kids commented on what inspiration the trainers provided. We are very lucky to have such a capable group of instructors & organisers at Summerstrand Lifesavers Club.
Larry & Rietjie Hobson
KWA ZUNGA
28 FEBRUARY 2008.
Barbara & I met Linda Olivier (Estate Agent based in Steytlerville) at about 10.00am on Wednesday morning at our house. We drove to the Crossroads at the Rocklands interchange. This is 30kays from our house. Here we met up with Greg Gilbert (044 532 7518). Greg is the owner OF Kwa Zunga (together with another group of people who he tells us have no real interest in the bush). The drive to KwaZunga is about 30kays most of which is good dirt road. We then turned off to the right and headed in a Northerly direction along a farm road. Here there are no apparent restrictions to access.
While this section of the road is extremely difficult with sharp rocks, dongas and steep drop off to the side, the Toyota 4X4 that Greg was driving coped with the terrain very well. I would recommend that visitors to this area should try to go in two vehicles. Greg assures as that once the Bulldozer has graded the road a farm bakkie will cope quite well. Tar road tyres will not last on this road.
Shortly after we left the main Winterberg dirt road we were in a farm belonging to the Whiteheads. It seems that there are no clearly defined boundaries at this stage. We crossed through both Whitehead farms as well as KwaZunga farms and went through two gates which were not locked. There is a Vodacom Tower on one of the ridges and power cables running through the property to supply the tower. At the top of the hill we passed by a log home which a PE man has built as a weekend getaway. He has no electricity and uses rain water. This is a really simple home with a terrific view of the valleys below. The home is built on an 80 hectare section slotted into a wedge between other farms. To the West Greg tells us that a well known PE family, Ronnie Watson is buying up land. To the north of this area is the greater Groendal nature reserve.
The area is so vast and inaccessible to the average person that boundaries and fences have little meaning. Once you are in the KwaZunga Valley you leave all visible signs of civilisation. Greg has two farms and each one has a “camp” on the river below. We were unable to see the second camp where he tells us there are caves and waterfalls as the floods of 2006 had washed away road access. However he reiterates that by the end of March 2007 the Bulldozers will have cleared both an old jeep track along the top ridge to the second camp as well as a road access along the river bed.
The road we took along the river seems to have been built with a degree of work. The side of the road seems to have been shored up with rock wedges. Greg thinks that there were rumours of gold in the valley and that is why the road was first built probably 100 years ago. Right at the south end top of the property where the neighbouring farms are, there are wattles and pines. But as soon as we descend in to the valley we did not see these exotic trees again. We saw cycads, aloes, protea and Fynbos and then right next to the river there are some yellowwoods. The valley is virtually untouched and unspoilt as the last farming efforts must have been many years ago.
There are a number of fences in the property and these look quite well entrenched and will take al great deal of work and effort to remove them altogether. There is only one jeep track leading down into the valley and this is at this stage quite difficult to drive. We will be interested to see the change next month. Greg has built a rudimentary shack near to the river where he camps for a weekend. Here he has a tank and a water pump which he uses for the shower and loo. There is nothing to do down here except to walk, swim, explore and to enjoy the outdoors. ON the way down to the valley we stopped to look at an area which looks like it would be suitable to build a cottage. This ridge has stunning views of the valleys below.
Greg says that a 4X4 tractor with a heavy duty trailer would be required to cart materials to the site and that this is entirely possible. As we drove though the property we saw Baboons, Reedbuck and Bushbuck. In the valley we saw a herd of about 10 to 15 Reedbuck. Once we had had a good look at the section of the property which was accessible we headed home. Greg has a double cab 3 Litre diesel 4X4 Toyota bakkie. Barbara & Linda had sat in the back and the lurching around on the roads had been quite tough for them. I seem to have aggravated a hip injury and I think that we were relieved to get back onto flat surface roads again. The whole trip had taken us from 10.00am to 15.00.
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