THE MEIRINGS POORT HALF MARATHON 17 OCTOBER 2009.
THIS IS A COMPREHENSIVE REPORT ON THE MEIRINGSPOORT HALF MARATHON.
THIS REPORT DESCRIBES THE BUILD UP, THE DRIVE TO DE RUST, THE EVENT, THE RESULTS AND THE HISTORY OF THE POORT.
Meiringspoort half (21Kay) is a race that I have long wished to do. The race falls on the same day as the Voet of Africa which we used to do when we traveled for runs. We had driven through the Meiringspoort on our way to the Orange River Canoe trail about 10years ago.
This year, Gerald told me that he would be doing the race and I decided that now is the time. I registered for the race early, thinking that I would qualify for a T-shirt as only the first 150 entrants receive the T-Shirt. I registered as number 158 and so only just missed out. Not that I need more T-shirts. I had planned to Camp and so had not been too concerned about accommodation. When I got round to making a booking I found that the camping ground and all the local accommodation was full. We ended up in a Self Catering B & B in Oudtshoorn.
Gerald, Ronel and I had been doing some longer runs on Saturdays. Starting at 05.00am, we had run to the beach where we met a group of Adrienne, Suzanne, Susan, Maryna, Pat, Anne Du Rand, Adriane Smith, Peter Mc Ewan and others who joined our group. We would run from Hobie to Walmer Boulevard, Strandfontien and back via Admiralty Road.
These runs would be at an easy pace with walking interspersed but we were able to gain confidence from the fact that we had completed a 20Kay training session.
Jacqui Zeelie had recently started running with the MPRG and had a friend (Brenda Scholtz) who was also reasonably new to running (having done her first 21kay at Knysna earlier this year) who had entered the Meiringspoort. As a result Jacqui decided to make the Meiringspoort her first race experience. They too would do longer runs over weekends but were not training with our group.
Gerald and Ronel had recently run the Hermanus Half marathon and were in good shape for this event. We had all planned to leave at around Lunch time on Friday afternoon. Brenda and Jacqui met us at our house at 13.30 and we finally left PE at around 14.00. We drove the route to Humansdorp on the N2 as far as the Langkloof Turn off.
Then the route took us to Joubertina where we had a Pit Stop. We met Barry DuPlessis who runs the Restaurant, the book store, the Pub and a farm about 25kays into the Kouga and Baviaanskloof. Barbara bought a children's book which she will use for story telling in her school. The little children love a thrilling story with animals and adventures with lots of pictures to stimulate their imagination.
As we drove the Langkloof Road, with Brenda following us, we came up to a section of road that was undergoing repair. I saw a vehicle parked on the side of the road but as it was a combi taxi I passed it. What I did not realise was that this should have been a “stop and go” and we were now on the wrong side of the road with nowhere to go. There was a lady guarding the road and directing traffic. She was not able to see the humour and also did not want us to park on the right hand side. So both cars had to back up and park behind the combi. And then a few seconds later a big truck drove in the opposite direction. While it had been quite funny at the time, if we had been a few seconds later we could have been involved in a nasty situation.
From there we drove on to the Uniondale turn off. The road winds through a narrow poort for about 10kays. The road has been damaged by the floods of 1996 and drivers have to exercise care as oncoming traffic is dangerous. It is along this road that, in 1968 a young couple had a motor accident and a 20year old girl was killed. About 10 years after this the ghost of this person was seen along the road. Since then there have been a number of sightings of a young lady hitch-hiking and tales of car doors being flung open and an apparition clinging to the back of cars. It is for this reason as well as the poor condition of the road that people avoid this road in the night.
From Uniondale we took the road to Willowmore and then turned off to De Rust. This road is quite spectacular as you drive parallel to the magnificent Swartberg range. As we reached De Rust we found parking and walked up to the Registration which is in “Die Kerk Saal”. Here we found a magnificent array of food, cakes and biscuits, meat and various goods for sale. De Rust was built on Petrus Meiring's farm in 1900 and was a resting place where wagons would out-span before tackling the long trek through the poort.
We ordered a tea and joined Pat, Ronel and Gerald. They had arrived, in their new Hyundai, a few minutes earlier. From here we split up: Jacqui and Brenda met their friends: Glen and Maura and had supper in the village before trying to find their B & B which was about an hours drive (near to the start of the race) from De Rust, along a Dirt Road. They got lost before finally phoning for directions. Jacqui described the hospitality as amazing and the room delightful in an African style and open plan bathroom which would have been great for a married couple but may have been a bit awkward for Brenda and her to share.
Gerald followed us as we drove the 35kays to Oudtshoorn. We were staying at the same B & B – Weltevreden at 80 Keyter street. While it was not luxurious, it was quite adequate as a place to sleep. Barbara & I found a restaurant where we ordered takeaways. Barbara had Fillet of Ostrich Steak and I had a Vegetable platter. We ordered a Chocolate mouse and Ice cream for desert. We returned to our B & B intending to have our supper and to watch a DVD on Ally's mini DVD player that we had brought along. Our plans were dashed however as we both fell asleep as soon as we were in bed.
Saturday morning I was up earlier that I had to be. Once I had washed and shaved, I made some hot chocolate and we left at around 5am. We filled with Petrol and joined the line of cars heading at this early hour, to De Rust. At Barbara's insistence we found a parking close to the start. We sat waiting until Jacqui's group came walking up the road. I followed them until they declared a need for the toilet.
I wandered down to where the cattle / ostrich trucks were waiting to take the runners to the start. Here I met up with Leslie and Rodney Maggot. Rodney was doing the 10kay and so Leslie and I looked for a place on a truck. I am not sure how it came that we were so lucky but we were able to board a bus. As we were about to board there were cries of “This bus is Full”. We ignored them and I pushed my way on insisting that my “wife” should be allowed to board as well. We sat on the front dashboard watching as some other poor souls froze on the back of bakkies. As we drove to the start I was again in awe of the mighty rock faces. Leslie told me that we should make time to visit the waterfall.
We firstly passed the Ten Kay start and then arrived at the end of the poort where there is a turning point for vehicles. I enjoyed a cup of sweet tea, found someone with some Vaseline, greeted Gerald and family, Jacqui and her group and then the start gun went off.
I was surprised to see everyone heading off in the wrong direction. I followed suite and soon realised that there was a One Kay run in a Westerly direction before the runners turned around and headed back to De Rust. I saw Mike and Devera Magson, Lewellan Clack and Allan Taylor all charging along at breakneck speed. I wondered at their ability to keep up such a fast speed for 21kays.
I went off too fast but was feeling good and chatting to a variety of people. Alan Howe, Carol from Humansdorp, a group of runners from Hartenbos who insisted that we had to speak Afrikaans when we are in places like De Rust. I was having fun as we crossed one drift after the next. The route takes the runners along the Groot Rivier. The sound of the water under the bridges, the magnificent sandstone cliff faces and green lichen gives the runner a sense of the wonder and beauty of the poort.
As we ran I felt this huge sense of sadness that Ian had never been into this place. Ian would have loved it and would have soon been identifying the rocks and plants. Meiringspoort is a place that every able bodied South African who has the means, should visit at some stage. Even if it is just to drive through. There are many places to pull over and to admire the views. At one stage there is a section of the old road which is built from stone with hand placed stone walls supporting the outer edge of the road still standing strong. This old road is something like 150 years old.
VASBYT.
Vasbyt is a South African term meaning to hang on when the situation is tough. In my recent running career I have forgotten how to Vasbyt. Too often I have walked whenever I felt like it. I have become lazy and use any little excuse to take it easy. I remember running the Kouga Kus half with Tim. I ran with him for the first ten kays and then faded horribly when it came to the hilly section.
This morning I had run fast (for me that is) for the first half of the distance. I asked for times from other runners and realised that I had done the first 10 or 12kays at a pace of about 5.15 a kay. I knew that I would not be able to keep this fast pace up. But I decided to take it one kay at a time and to try to not walk unless it was absolutely necessary. Leslie passed me. I had a stitch just under my ribs. But I maintained a pace that seemed to me to be sustainable for the last 7 or so kays. Liz (Grundling I think) passed me. She is an amazing runner who still holds my admiration from the night when I had bailed from a Comrades and she came in before Bruce Fordyce running in, what could be described as dusk, in Pietermaritzburg.
Towards the last 5kays the route emerges out of the poort. Up to now the gradient has been basically downhill and gives the runner a sense of well-being. From about 5kays to go there are some slight up hills. I am not good on hills but managed to keep up the running and stopped myself from walking at any stage. I knew that if I had just one walk then that would be it for me and I would get back into my bad habit of walking as soon as I felt tired in the slightest.
Nicky Roote passed me. She commented on how awful it was that runners tossed their water sachets into the river. At this stage there were a number of runners passing me. I was not concerned as I was still enjoying the morning and knew that I could hold out. We could see the first buildings of De Rust on the top of the hill. We passed the 3kay to go mark. Erna and Sonja from MPRG drove past us. Nicky thought that they may have started late or done the Ten Kay.
What I learned on Monday morning at MPRG was that Erna and Sonja had decided to go in their own vehicle to the start of the 21kay. They had done this race before and knew the course and the drill. They reached the start of the run, found a place to turn and mingled with the rest of the runners. And started with the gun. A few minutes later they reached the 9kay to go mark! Erna says to Sonja: “I have this terrible cold feeling!” Sonja says: “Yes. We are doing the Ten Kay”. Big Oooops! They had parked where the 10kay started, not even knowing that there was a 10. Ah well: Ce la vie!
The morning was becoming quite hot as the sun was on our backs and there was not much of a breeze. We reached the village. Leslie was ahead of me and walked occasionally. I passed her and forced myself to move just above a walk. The route takes a left turn into the village then a right turn up the hill. Immediately you can see the finish. One kay to go. And we turn away from the finish. Back to the main road. Up the hill. Barbara is there taking photographs.
I run past Barbara, wondering if my attempt at a smile for the camera would come out as a determined grimace. I continued up the hill, turned left again and managed to stay a the same jogging pace up the very last hill. Finally the last 20 meters down to the finish. Leslie was just behind me and we have finished in about 1H56Minuttes. Jan and Irene van Eden do the time keeping and registration.
I walked back to where Barbara was standing in the main road and watched the runners coming in. Geoff Roberts, Ronel, Brenda then Gerald and Jacqui, Marie Louise Emslie, Maura, and finally Pat came in smiling and looking like she had just started. Les and Margie Brightman were there as well as a number of Crusaders.
Today was also the running of the Port Alfred 27kay where most of the Achilleans would be found. Jacqui had completed her first half marathon in a very acceptable time of around 2H20. She had run most of the distance with Maura having met Gerald a short way before the end. Brenda had been a little in front of them and had also competed the half looking good. This was only her second 21kay after the Kynsa half earlier this year.
As a result of Leslie telling me about the Waterfall, Barbara & I left immediately and drove back through the poort. We drove right through to where the race had started and then back to the waterfall stop. Here the authorities have built a wonderful area for vehicles to stop as well as an information center. We learned that each of the crossing of the Groot Rivier has a name with a background. There are 25 crossings:
From De Rust:
1.Spookdrif: A supernatural light in the form of a ball of fire has been seen at this point.
2.Skansdrif: Stone Ramparts were built here to prevent flooding.
3.Damdrif: There was a very large water-hole here that was deceptive particularly to strangers who would often become bogged down in the mud.
4.Boesmansdrif: here there are deep clefts in the rock face where San people used to live.
5.Skelmkloof Drif: here there is a hidden ravine where water trickles into the Groot Rivier.
6.Aalwyndrif: Named after the beautiful aloes that over look this drift. Aloes are sought after for their medicinal uses.
7.Nooiensboomdrif: A Nooiensboom is a Cabbage Tree and two of these trees used to grow on either side of the road.
8.Stewelsdrif: A “stewel” is translated as a Boot. A wagoner of farmer Petrus Meiring lost his boots here and had to return home for a new pair. Here the name Dubbledrif can also be seen. This does not appear to be an official name of a drift as it does not appear on the list of Drifts in the information center.
9.Perskeboomdrif: so named from the peach trees that used to grow close to this Drift.
10.Sanddrif: Sandbanks would cause obstructions here. The first Concrete causeway was built here in 1948
11.Herrie se drif: first known as Nagas drif it later took on the name Herrie. C J Langenhoven (1873 – 1932) poet and afrikaans writer, is best known for composing the South African National Anthem: “Uit die Blou van onse hemel” which was later adapted to our present anthem incorporating Nkosi Siki Lele in 1995 when Nelson Mandela become president. Langenhoven carved out the name Herrie which was the name of his fictional Elephant in his book: “Sonde met die Bure”. This is one of the few cases of Graffiti becoming a National Heritage site. It was proclaimed in 1973 to celebrate the birth date of Langenhoven.
12.Witperdedrif: a Rabbi and his horses were washed away at this site. His remains were never found.
13.Ou Tol drif: named after the Old Toll house which has been gone for many years
14.Wadrif: Legend has it that a number of wagons were washed away here.
15.Witfonteindrif: there is a steam of crystal clear water that flows from kranses to the west of this crossing.
16.Uitspandrif: there is sufficient area for the wagoners to allow the oxen to turn and to graze in this area.
17.Waterfaldrif: so called after a nearby waterfall.
18.Ontploffingsdrif: a wagon loaded with explosives traveling along the Boer Road exploded close by here. The Anglo Boer war / South African war (1899 – 1902) saw the British Soldiers build a fort with wall so stone here.
19.Derdetoldrif: to the West of this crossing two more Toll Houses were built. The ruins of these houses can still be seen here.
20.Rooiuitspanningsdrif: here there was sufficient space for a number of ox wagons to outspan. The red comes from the red soil in the area.
21.Pereboom se drif. As you approach this drift you go through a horse shoe bend. A saffron pear tree grew here making this a popular place for wagons to outspan
22.Bloupunt drif: wagons would frequently become stuck in the loose gravel here. The name is derived from that of a nearby farm.
23.Wasgatdrif: Entering Meiringspoort from the North, travelers could fill their barrels and could wash off the Karoo dust in the first really deep pools in many miles.
24.Opmetingsdrif: in 1912 measurements were taken to decide upon building a dam in this possibly suitable position.
25.Laaste Drif: traveling from the South this would have been the last drift that you would cross.
Petrus Meiring owned the farm where De Rust is now situated. It was he who loved to explore and discovered the route through the Swartberg mountain range, we now refer to as Meirings Poort. He was the son of a Pastor Meiring who arrived in South Africa in 1743.
Back at the waterfall stop area we first examined the history of the Poort. This road which connected the Klein and the Groot Karoo took about 2 years to complete and was officially opened on 3 March 1858. The original road was called the Boer Road and cost about 5 000 pounds to build. During the great depression the road was upgraded at a cost of around 10 000 pounds. This was probably in anticipation of the visit by the Prince of Wales. At this time a walkway to the waterfall was hewn out of the rock face.
In 1948 a further reconstruction cost 14 000 pounds. After the floods of 1996 the road was rebuilt at a cost of R1,6 Million and in 2000 The premier of the Western Cape, Gerald Morkel opened the newly constructed road which had then cost R70 Million to build. The name Meirings Poort came from Petrus Johannes Meiring a nearby farmer (1799-1876).
Barbara and I walked the short way to the waterfall. This is a spectacular point of interest and should not be missed by any visitor to the area. We got talking to a family who had just run the race as well. We also chatted to a group of Bikers (our age) who were cruising the area.
I had this overwhelming sense appreciation that I was able to do things like this. Running a 21kay through this stunning poort, meeting up with a group of friends, viewing this waterfall and the poort drive with Barbara. This is a very special privilege that we enjoy and we should savour every moment. A group of Barbara's school children were at the parking area with their parents who had also run the race this morning.
While we were enjoying our day at Meiringspoort, Adrienne and Peter Wilson were in Cape Town to watch Jennifer playing Hockey. She has played for South Africa for some time and in a game earlier this week she scored a goal. By Sunday afternoon the South African girls were through to the final having drawn against NZ and beaten Spain 1-0. they were now up against NZ again in the final. I later learned that SA were beaten by NZ after a thrilling match ending up 2-1 to NZ.
We headed back to De Rust. On our way we stopped to see if we could find the stone carving of C J Langenhoven: Herrie. There it was; in bold letters. Nearly 100 year old Graffiti! Barbara spotted, what she thought could be a Black Eagle Nest on the cliff face on the east side of the kloof. And sure enough, when we looked closely at the photograph back home, the nest of an eagle could be clearly seen.
Back at De Rust, we bought ourselves a Curry & Rice which was delicious and just right. By now I was ravenous. We sat for a while with Brenda, Maura and Glen who were with Jacqui Zeelie. Jacqui traveled back home with us. On our way home we again stopped at Joubertina before completing the last leg of the drive home.
Race Results of some of the people that we know at the event:
1st person home time of 1.07
15th Michael Magson 1.18
4th Lady and 43rd Davera Magson 1.26
88th Les Brightman 1.33
92nd Lewllan Clack 1.34
108th Alan Taylor 1.36
331st Nicky Roote 1.54
359 Peter Giddy 1.56
361 Leslie Maggot 1.56
371 Alan Howe 1.57
371 Alan Howe 1.57
478 Geoff Roberts 2.02
641 Brenda Scholtz 2.12
671 Ronel Scheepers 2.14
708 Gerald Scheepers 2.19
716 Jacqui Zeelie 2.19
721 Marie Louise Emslie 2.19
724 Maura Jarvis 2.19
788 Pat Scheepers 2.28
905 Last man home 2.58
Back home, Ally had stayed over at her friend, Nicola Prinsloo. Bev and Chris are really good to Ally. They make her feel very much at home. Barbara and I had a quick wash and made our way down to Summerstrand where we caught the last few minutes of the Currie Cup Rugby semi final. Completely against the run of play and in the very final minutes, The Free State Cheetah's beat the Natal Sharks.
We then watched the Blue Bulls play against the Western Province team. It was a really tense match with a half time score of 12 nil to the Blue Bulls with Morne Steyn scoring all the points from penalties. Province came back in the second half and scored a number of penalties of their own. The game moved at a fierce pace and defense had to be perfect on both sides but finally Gio Aplon out sprinted two Bulls players after a grubber kick and scored the only try of the match. The conversion put the WP team ahead. A penalty to either side thereafter put WP in the lead again. In the final minute Morne dropped a goal for the winning three points.
Bulls will now play Cheetah's at Loftus. Clint had been making up a Pot and we ended off the evening with potjie and rice before collecting Ally from Nicola's house.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Saturday, October 3, 2009
OCTOBER 2009.
OCTOBER 2009
THIS MONTH
PATRICK, MARIANNE AND THOMAS VISIT ENA AND DRIVES TO PLETT IN THE OLD MERCEDES
EP LADIES RUGBY IN UITENHAGE WITH RON PASK
MPRG RUNNING TO THE BEACH AND THE STRANDFONTEIN LOOP.
NIPPERS IS BACK AT SUMMERSTRAND ON SUNDAYS
ALLY GIDDY MARKET DAY
ALLY GIDDY GALA IN UITENHAGE.
CATHY & SAUL SILBERSTEIN TRIP TO KENYA
MICHAEL & LENE GIDDY MOVE BACK TO OUR HOUSE
MEIRINGSPOORT HALF MARATHON.
BARBARA, ALLY AND I PURCHASE MOUNTAIN BIKES FROM CYCLO PRO ROB RUDMAN.
LENE LOSES HER BABY.
NIPPERS LEVEL TESTS.
ARE YOU IN CONTROL OF YOUR OWN DESTINY? OR IS THERE ANOTHER IN YOUR LIFE WHO "CONTROLS" YOU?
ARE YOU ABLE TO VALUE WHAT YOU HAVE OR DO YOU WISH FOR THINGS THAT ARE A MERE PIPE DREAM?
DO YOU "WISH" FOR WHAT OTHERS HAVE OR WHAT YOU CONSIDER TO BE BEYOND YOUR REACH?
READ ON:
There's an old saying: "The grass is always greener on the other side." At some point in life, everyone looks at their circumstances and thinks, "If only... If only I had a better job. If only my spouse were like so-and-so. If only I had gone to college. If only I had the opportunities so-and-so had." We look around and think everyone else has it better than we do. But I believe comparison is just a trick of the enemy to get us off course and keep us from God's best. Comparison is the thief of joy, and if the enemy can steal our joy, he has stolen our source of strength.
See, I don't believe the grass is greener on the other side; I believe the grass is greener where you water it. In other words, we have to tend to the things that are important to us if we want to see those areas of our lives blossom and grow. If you want better relationships, you have to invest in the people around you. If you want a better job, you have to invest in your skill set to qualify for that job and then go after it.
We all have the capacity to come up higher. God has given us all tremendous opportunities, but if we are focused on what everyone else has, we'll miss out on what God has especially for us!
Today, instead of comparing, decide to cultivate the dry, fallow areas of your life. Begin to water and invest in the areas in which you want to see change. Get a vision and dedicate it to the Lord. As you take responsibility and tend to what the Lord has given you, I believe He'll pour out His blessing and favor, and you'll see your life flourish beyond anything you could have ever hoped or dreamed.
This is one of those emails that are forwarded. I hardly ever forward this kind of thing but today felt that this was meaningful in so many of our lives. This is worth saving to re-read.
October has now begun. Just three months in this year are still to be played out.
We have had so many things happen this year. Both great and some not so wonderful. Ian died, since then Barbara's cousin Sue died, then Michael De Koning (a man who was injured in a rugby accident and who was confined to a wheelchair but who became a good friend to Michael and Jacqui Zivor) died and now Roger Gush has died. These four deaths all seem to be premature.
I am not really sure what a premature death is: perhaps death is premature when it is not due to old age. But to some old age is 75. Barbara's parents died in this age bracket as did my father, Allan. But then a young person may consider 60 to be old age.
While I, in my late fifty's now, think that my Mother, who is 93, has reached old age. However we describe death, it is sad for those left behind and a big gap is created and we wonder how we will carry on without those who are no longer with us. I know time will heal but right now I am feeling a great sense of loss as a result of these four great people who have left us.
But enought of morbid thoughts. We have a wonderful and fulfilled life and should, as the writing above says, be celebrating every moment.
Sunday 4th October 2009.
This week: After a lay off and a bit of leave I went back to work on Thursday 1st. I also went for a run this morning for the first time in over a week. I am not really sure if I should be calling it running as I am barely able to walk jog the route out. We did the Town Run where I have been cutting short but this morning headed all the way down Bird street and past the Edward hotel. It had begun raining so we ended the run sopping wet but I felt good to be back on the road and doing a little longer than I had anticipated.
Back to work I had to appoint a FSAM to the position of RIana Nel who had left JDG last week. I discussed the applications with Corrie and we decided to appoint Rowena van Eck who was a regional Credit manager for Russells, then moved to the George area with JDG FS and who will now move back to PE where she has a daughter and grandaughter.
Other than this it was a time to catch up with work and to deal with all of the problems of staff with no Riana and Nicky (on leave) to field the questions. Friday evening on my way home, I wondered what to have for supper. I was not in the mood for cooking so stopped off at the Spar and went to the Deli bar. As I browsed I saw a Sushi tray for R30 and decided that we would have a fish supper. I bought the Sushi, some pickled fish and some calamari. It turned out to be an excellent supper that everyone enjoyed.
Saturday morning I was up early and Gerald, Ronel and I ran to Hobie beach where we met up with the rest of the group for a run. This morning it was: Adrienne and son Matthew, Maryna, Adrienne Smith and Anne duRandt were surprise visitors who joined us for the first time; Margie Saunders was there to show us how to really train for an event; Peter Mc Ewan was also a first timer in this group; Pat Scheepers & Suzanne Gendall also met us at Hobie for the run. So we had a merry band of about 12 runners stretched out along the route for a run.
It started off misty with an East wind but the sun soon burned the mist away and we had an excellent morning of jogging. I was in my normal place at the back but when we reached 2nd ave for water at the garage it was only Gerald, Peter, Maryna and I who continued on to Admiralty Way. Tony Button (shirtless) had passed us going the other direction and was oohed and aaahed at by the girls with his magnificent physique. So I decided to run shirtless for the last section but receieved no swooning from anyone. Ce La Vie!
Maryna and Peter decided to include the University in their run and turned right while Gerald I continued down to Beach Road and headed back to Hobie. We met Charmaine as she was coming from her home to start her run. And Judy Blumberg who is looking a little older but still running well. As we finished we were treated to a dolphin swimpast. It had been a good run and despite that fact that my legs were starting to cramp and I was really tired, this is a highlite of my week. Pat and Ronel were waiting for us and they gave me a lift home.
I arrived at home exhausted. Barbara was still in bed and I lay down still wet and sweaty and promptly fell asleep. I think that this was a first for me. I would never normally lie down after a run nor would I do anything before I have had a shower. But I was so weary that I "passed out" there and then.
Barbara had to buy some clothes for Ally for the new term starting Monday and headed off to Clarendon school shop. It was Daniel's Birthday and they went to visit there. Michael had not been feeling well and was also home. I went to work to do some catching up as I knew we would be in meetings on Monday and Tuesday next week.
I collected Barbara and the two of us went to Flight Center where we did some enquiries about the flights to Calgary as Barbara and Gail plan to be there in June 2010.
Later this afternoon I again did "something completely different". Ron and I went to watch Ladies Rugby in Uitenhage. Eastern Province Ladies rugby was, according to the news paper report on the up and they would be playing the Blue Bulls ladies team in a provincial final.
We paid R30 to drive into the stadium at the bottom end of Uitenhage. There were mainly black and coloured people there with a lot of drinking going on. Casks of wine, glass bottles of beer were surprising to see as at all the stadiums that we normally go to all forms of alcohol are controlled and only plastic mugs are allowed. But that having been said there were no problems today.
I had visions of a game that Barbara and I had been to many years ago where there were two local teams playing. The popular coloured team was losing and this was, in the opinion of the spectators, due to bad refereeing. The result was that glass bottles were flung at people on the field and Barbara and I had to flee for our lives as the crowd became totally uncontrolled and we had some near misses with big bottles smashing around us.
Today's game was a treat. The Eastern Province girls (all black and coloured) at first seemed to be out weighed by a big Blue Bulls (many white girls) pack. But the skill of the EP girls was soon evident as they totally dominated the game both in line outs and the back line where there were some unlikely looking girls with speed and agility that could be a lesson to many male teams.
We were delighted to see a half time score of three tries (one converted) to nil. The first two tries were scored by a very agile and capable scrumhalf and the third was scored by a center after a long breakaway run. In the second half the EP side had most of the territory and possession but stuggled to score but then in two excellent moves moved the score up by scoring two more tries (one converted) and preventing the Blue Bulls from scoring with some excellent tacking and defence that did our local team proud.
Niether side had a girl who was a really good kicker. This kept the ball in hand as the only kicks were short stabs and grubber kicks. Even penalties were often taken as though they were "short arm" penalties. Passing out to the centers and wings was the norm and not something to be rarely seen as it is in the mens version. Running with ball in hand, dodging and darting through traffic was often a tactic that proved successful.
The heavy charges of the Blue Bulls big girls was totally unsuccessful as the ball was often lost forward. The final score was 29-0 with the Mighty Elephants scoring 5 tries (two converted). Ron and I had been treated to some excellent rugby despite some really poor refereeing. Interestingly the referee, the linesmen and teams were all female. But the coaches and organisers seemed to be all men. EP had deservedly won the provincial trophy.
Sunday morning
Ally had spent the night at Michael's house. It was Daniels birthday. M & L have gone out to a batchelor party for a family member of Lene's. I collected her and we just had time to get to church. Mike Perks spoke and had an excellent sermon on the chorus: God is so good; He took my Sin; Now I am free.
After church it was down to Nippers where we had a great time with all age groups on a slightly cooler morning doing swimming and boarding. After Nippers we went to Michaels house where we spent the afternoon having lunch and playing bridge.
Sunday 11.10.2009.
Charles is battling with Jamie right now. Jamie appears to be a bit out of control and needs constant attention. We were due to meet Charles and Ingrid for supper but they had to cancel. I am sure that this is a phase and that Jamie will come through it but meanwhile it is tough for this family.
Ally had her Market day on Friday. She and her friend Hanna OBrie have been hard at work making necklaces, braclets, door signs, popcorn, crunchies, brownies and set up a table in the Clarendon Hall. When I collected Ally from her firend's party at the Ten Pin Bowling on Friday evening, Ally was not looking as bright as normal and I established that the Market Day had not gone as they had hoped. There are a number of lessons that they learned from this experience. It was a really good learning tool.
Saturday Morning. I was up early and met Gerald and Ronel and we ran down to Hobie beach where we met: Colin Mc Call, Suzanne, Susan, Anne DuRand, Adrienne Smith, Adrienne Wilson, Maryna Baard. We did the Strandfontein circuit. Passed Bob Stedman en route. Deryck LeRoux passed us as he drove to golf.
As we were finishing along the beach walk we met a young mother and child in a pram: Anja and daughter Johanna. They are a German family who are moving to PE as the Dad has a job here. After this run of around 20kays I am now feeling good for the Meiringspoort 21kay that we plan to run next week.
Ally had a Gala in Uitenhage. It was cold and I think that everyone: Parents and swimmers were freezing cold. I went to a Coaching session run by Anthony Skinner (brian Saunders and Harry) at Summies. We had an excellent turnout: Dianne, John, Varrin, Andrew, Clint, Bruce, Thomas, Roger, Hannes, Alex, Shareen, Lynne, Marius and Peter.
I planned to cycle with John on Sunday morning but the cold and wet put us off. It was still cold, misty and wet when we got down to Nippers on Sunday morning. But there was a good turnout of Nippers and Coaches there. We had some time to start Sprint Coaching as well as doing some In's and Out's of the water. The wind was Easterly and the waves were a mess.
This week at work we had to do a lot of training of a new system that is being introduced. I ran most mornings except Tuesday as it was raining. Gerald and I have been running extremely slowly with lots of walking interspersed. This does not bother me as I am now feeling good for Meiringspoort.
Silver Oak Trees
The silver Oak Trees in Walmer are now at their best with the golden blossoms flowering. I looked up this tree and found out that the tree is known as the Australian Silver-Oak or the Southern Silky Oak tree. Grevillea robusta: It is native to Eastern Australia but does well in South Africa. It is an evergreen, grows fast and suits the South African climate. I saw one of these trees in Jacqui Zeelie's house when I visited Joshua on Grandparents Day. She complains that it makes a big mess with the golden blossoms falling on the playground.
The South African Silver Oak Tree is more like a shrub or bush. It is a dense bush with leathery leaves which are green on the top but have silver coloured hairs on the bottom of the leave which give it a shiny appearance. The South African Silver Oak is also evergreen and fast growing. Brachylaena discolor: It is found in the Coastal Woodlands of the Eastern Cape. The name Discolour refers to the two colours of the leaf.
Saturday 17th October 2009.
This weekend we ran the Meiringspoort half marathon. I have written a separate blog on Meiringspoort.
Sunday 18.10.2009.
Sunday morning: Michael had not been feeling well and we stopped off to see him before going off to Nippers.
At Summerstrand the wind had flattened the waves and we had a wonderful session of which most was in the water. We had the U14's do about 5 times on their Malibu boards out and back. Tough but necessary training. There were a group of about 22 U14's and similar numbers of the other age groups.
All the coaches were able to spend quality time with the Nippers in the water as well as doing Flags.
Jacqui had finally got the clothing back from being branded with ADT who are now our new sponsors. She handed clothing out to parents who have paid subs. Dianne has a wonderful tuck shop going and was selling potjie rolls at R5 and hamburgers at R10. They do a roaring trade and this is a big success at Summerstrand now.
The ADT sponsorship was finalised late on Friday afternoon. Hannes had been working hard to reach an understanding with the management of ADT as to what they would require from us. There is a certain amount of clothing stock that has now been branded with the ADT logo and this will be the new uniform of Summerstrand.
Now that we have this very generous sponsorship finalised we will order and print clothing for our Nippers. Please be a little patient. We will let you know as soon as the clothing is available. Meanwhile; if you have paid your annual subs please talk to Jacqui on Sunday. Jacqui will be at the Nippers cage.
Once a Nipper's annual Subscription has been paid the Nipper will receive a Scull Cap, a chafe vest and a bathing costume. Other clothing will be sold to cover the costs. The Nippers committee has not put any “mark up” on clothing in the past but merely tried to recover the cost price of the uniform. This year will be the first that Nippers will have the uniform included in the Subscription.
It is important to note that we should make an effort to honour the substantial sponsorship that ADT has given to Summerstrand. Please make every effort to wear the ADT branded clothing as soon as you have received it. We would like to phase out the Equisweet branded clothing. The committee has found a suitable and needy outlet for clothing and beach wear that has the Equisweet label.
Micro Nippers: The Annual Subscription for a Micro Nipper is R100. The Micro Nipper will receive an ADT branded scull cap which they should wear on Sundays at practice.
Level Tests: we are now trying to arrange a level test for all Nippers who have moved up an age group or who are first timer's. Rob Mitchley is working tirelessly to set up level tests for Saturday 31st October at Hobie beach: time to be confirmed. YOU HAVE TO PROVIDE ROB WITH A SWIM LETTER. This letter can be signed by you, a swim coach or any other suitable adult. Please make his life easy: don't make him phone you: fax a copy of the letter on Monday.
Robert Mitchley Attorney
Tel: 041 373 1956
Fax: 086 623 0290
Mobile: 082 929 1648
robert.mitchley@vodamail.co.za
Nippers Practice for Sunday 25th: we had thought to arrange a practice at Redhouse but for a number of reasons we will meet at Summerstrand as usual.
Monday morning I was quite stiff and Mike Dean & I decided to do a very short walk run. We chatted about all kinds of stuff: His daughter, Catherine is also not well. She is at University in Cape Town and struggling with health. Debra has completed a degree in property management and is now studying a Post Grad Law degree.
His Medical Technologist is going off on Maternity leave and he is concerned that he will not cope without her specialist knowledge. Mike had done the Ocean Swim on Sunday in a wet suite for the first time. He described what it was to wear a wet suite and how this had changed the dynamics of the swim.
Tuesday and Wednesday we did our slow runs in the morning. Tuesday, Barbara, Ally and I went to Cyclo Pro Rob Rudman and bought ourselves three mountain bikes for R20 750 in total including all the stuff such as slick tyres etc.
Thursday and Friday I was in East London and then Friday evening we had an evening with Charles and Ingrid. They made these Borrito's (chicken and beef wraps) with lettuce, tomato, spring onion, mushroom etc chopped and wrapped in pancakes. A very nice and easy supper. We played a bit of bridge and then collected Ally who had been at Lara O's party at the boardwalk. They had a Survivor party doing all kinds of activities.
Michael and Lene had decided that it would ease some of their tensions and stress if they moved back home with us. So this week they packed up all of their furniture, moved some to our house and then rest to my office basement.
Saturday morning I walked to Adrienne where Pat collected us. We drove down to the beach where we met the gang: Susan, Suzanne, Maryna (piepie Lang Kous), Gerald, Pat, Ronel, Anne Du Rand, Adrienne and myself. We ran along the beach and up Admiralty to Strandfontien. Back to the beach after an hour of running. Then Ronel had wanted to do a Triathlon so we went for a short swim around the buoys. I think that Maryna was a little disappointed as she had wanted a longer run.
Cathy had been to Kenya at the invitation of her work. Saul and her had a luxury holiday of about two weeks in the most wonderful settings in the Serengetti, in craters of old volcano's. They watched the migration of the Wilderbees and Zebra. They saw the RIver Crossing that we see on Nationial Geographic. They witnessed a Zebra being taken out by a crocodile. They did game viewing from Horse back and were able to go right up to the animals. And during all of this they stayed in Luxury accommodation.
When Cathy heard that Michael was struggling with his situation and health she decided that she had to see for herself and give him support. So she flew into PE on Friday immediately on her return from holiday. All of this travel made her system a little weak and she was not feeling her best.
After our run on Saturday morning we drove to Cyclo Pro to collect the Bikes but unfortunately they were not yet ready. The day was cold, windy and overcast so after work that was the end of activity for me. Kevin the gardener and I cleared out some stuff and took it to the tip. But apart from that I did not do anything that Saturday afternoon.
Sunday morning with Cathy and the rest of the family at our home, we took the morning off and started a leisurely day. Barbara dropped Cathy off at the airport and Ally & I went to Nippers:
To all the new Nippers and Parents: Welcome to Nippers. Thank you for choosing Summerstrand.
Please understand that we are all parents just like you who have become involved with our children's activities.
This is not an exclusive bunch of coaches and administrators. We invite you to put on your shorts or bathing costumes and to join us. Either on the beach or assisting at the club house.
I am sure that many Nippers or Parents would have asked the question: "Is there Nippers today?" on Sunday morning.
The answer is that, unless we have told you prior to Sunday, there will be Nippers every Sunday 11am to 13.00. Your coaches will be there.
This Sunday we had an amazing turnout despite the seemingly chilly, windy, wet weather.
The conditions for training have never been better than we have had this season so far.
We have never (in the past few years) had so much time to train Malibu, body board and swimming as we have had this season.
I am pretty sure that we are not the only family who is arriving home on Sunday afternoon completely exhausted.
And, while we have had a few hiccups with Clothing, we have had an amazing group of people doing the admin and tuckshop.
There have been Hot Dogs and Hamburgers for sale each weekend. And everything has been sold out.
The coaches are busy sorting out teams for Plett Carnival. We will send out the program for Plett as soon as we receive it.
U12 and U14's: Please remember that you have to have competed in Carnivals as well as East Cape (Plett next year) to be able to qualify for selection to represent EC as a province.
Energade Triathlon:
The very popular Energade Triathlon is held on Sunday 29th November, at Pollock Beach.
Ally & I have entered for this event. Will you please think about joining us?
It is an event that can be completed by everyone either as a team or as individuals.
Peter
082 550 3174
26.10.2009.
Once we were home, Barbara & I went to the Indigenous Nursery off Kragga Kamma Road. I had done a little research on the Australian and the South African Silver Oak. So we decided to purchase a SA Silver Oak to plant in the garden. We will plant it on the East Wall next to Mill Park Road.
I also purchased a Real Yellowood Tree. I had bought one of these trees about 2 years ago and after digging a hole for this tree for about a week or two I planted it (with lots of ceremony) and it promptly died. So I will pull the old stump out and plant my second attempt this week.
This evening I tried out the Tortilla type wrap (taco, burrito, enchiladas) with chicken and salad. Healthy and filling. Easy to make. Ally loves it and I had to make her one for her lunch the next day.
Monday morning I tried to run but had to stop as my leg was in agony.
Tuesday afternoon: It had been blowing a gale and a number of trees and roofs were blown off. Some people even lost boats in the PE harbour.
It had rained on Monday to Barbara & I went to collect the Bikes from Rob Rudman this afternoon. We phoned first to ensure that they were ready only to be disappointed when we arrived there and they were still not ready. I told Rob how I felt and cleared the air. On our way home we stopped off at Cell C to renew Barbara's cell phone contract. We received excellent service from the young man who was there and Barbara will now have a really snazzy phone.
Wednesday afternoon we finally collected the bikes after having them set up and made ready to cycle. Rob gave us some instructions as to maintenance and the use of the bikes. I really cannot wait to have us cycyle as a family.
This week Lene and Michael went to see how the baby was doing. Lene was able to perform the ultra sound herself but found no heart beat. They then discovered that the baby was going to be stillborn. Very sad for them. Lene had the operation performed during the week and took the rest of the week off to recover.
Hannes and I met up with ADT on Monday morning. We had a really good discussion regarding their sponsorship and what they hope to achieve and how we could benefit from the relationship.
This week I have been battling with a calf muscle injury. I have a prescription for anti inflamatory pills and these work if I take them for about three days in a row. But I am reluctant to take it too regularly. But on Thursday & Friday I took the pills and then on Saturday morning we had a stunning run from Hobie with a swim afterwards. It was Adrienne, Susan, Anne Du Rand and myself. Gerald was running a 27kay race. We swam afterwards. Maryna was not well and brought us a coffee and rusk to the finish.
I went home and after a shower went back to the beach where we had our first round of Level Tests for the season. THe water was cold but the Nippers all passed. Today I had the Gardener plant the Yellow Wood tree that I had bought. I also started a second attempt at a vegetable garden with some tyres that I filled with compost and planted some SPinach, Lettuce, Beans and Cabbage. So we will see what happens.
This afternoon was the Currie Cup final between Blue Bulls and Cheetahs. A good game but was not of that much interest to me. A number of springboks in both teams but the Blie Bulls were favourites and ultimate winners. Ally and friend Lara Swanepoel went to watch a Hip Hop dance competition at Clarendon. It was too long and lasted from around 6.30pm to after ten pm.
And so ended the tenth month of 2009. Busy as always, fulfilling, sad, family drama, work activity, Barbara's school takes a beating, I battle with running injury but also have one of the best runs that I have had in ages, Nippers is in full swing with our first level test of the season completed and Rugby is over for this season. We buy some Mountain bikes but I have trouble on the first day that I use mine as the rear wheel falls off and the brakes jam up.
Peter Giddy
31.10.2009.
THIS MONTH
PATRICK, MARIANNE AND THOMAS VISIT ENA AND DRIVES TO PLETT IN THE OLD MERCEDES
EP LADIES RUGBY IN UITENHAGE WITH RON PASK
MPRG RUNNING TO THE BEACH AND THE STRANDFONTEIN LOOP.
NIPPERS IS BACK AT SUMMERSTRAND ON SUNDAYS
ALLY GIDDY MARKET DAY
ALLY GIDDY GALA IN UITENHAGE.
CATHY & SAUL SILBERSTEIN TRIP TO KENYA
MICHAEL & LENE GIDDY MOVE BACK TO OUR HOUSE
MEIRINGSPOORT HALF MARATHON.
BARBARA, ALLY AND I PURCHASE MOUNTAIN BIKES FROM CYCLO PRO ROB RUDMAN.
LENE LOSES HER BABY.
NIPPERS LEVEL TESTS.
ARE YOU IN CONTROL OF YOUR OWN DESTINY? OR IS THERE ANOTHER IN YOUR LIFE WHO "CONTROLS" YOU?
ARE YOU ABLE TO VALUE WHAT YOU HAVE OR DO YOU WISH FOR THINGS THAT ARE A MERE PIPE DREAM?
DO YOU "WISH" FOR WHAT OTHERS HAVE OR WHAT YOU CONSIDER TO BE BEYOND YOUR REACH?
READ ON:
There's an old saying: "The grass is always greener on the other side." At some point in life, everyone looks at their circumstances and thinks, "If only... If only I had a better job. If only my spouse were like so-and-so. If only I had gone to college. If only I had the opportunities so-and-so had." We look around and think everyone else has it better than we do. But I believe comparison is just a trick of the enemy to get us off course and keep us from God's best. Comparison is the thief of joy, and if the enemy can steal our joy, he has stolen our source of strength.
See, I don't believe the grass is greener on the other side; I believe the grass is greener where you water it. In other words, we have to tend to the things that are important to us if we want to see those areas of our lives blossom and grow. If you want better relationships, you have to invest in the people around you. If you want a better job, you have to invest in your skill set to qualify for that job and then go after it.
We all have the capacity to come up higher. God has given us all tremendous opportunities, but if we are focused on what everyone else has, we'll miss out on what God has especially for us!
Today, instead of comparing, decide to cultivate the dry, fallow areas of your life. Begin to water and invest in the areas in which you want to see change. Get a vision and dedicate it to the Lord. As you take responsibility and tend to what the Lord has given you, I believe He'll pour out His blessing and favor, and you'll see your life flourish beyond anything you could have ever hoped or dreamed.
This is one of those emails that are forwarded. I hardly ever forward this kind of thing but today felt that this was meaningful in so many of our lives. This is worth saving to re-read.
October has now begun. Just three months in this year are still to be played out.
We have had so many things happen this year. Both great and some not so wonderful. Ian died, since then Barbara's cousin Sue died, then Michael De Koning (a man who was injured in a rugby accident and who was confined to a wheelchair but who became a good friend to Michael and Jacqui Zivor) died and now Roger Gush has died. These four deaths all seem to be premature.
I am not really sure what a premature death is: perhaps death is premature when it is not due to old age. But to some old age is 75. Barbara's parents died in this age bracket as did my father, Allan. But then a young person may consider 60 to be old age.
While I, in my late fifty's now, think that my Mother, who is 93, has reached old age. However we describe death, it is sad for those left behind and a big gap is created and we wonder how we will carry on without those who are no longer with us. I know time will heal but right now I am feeling a great sense of loss as a result of these four great people who have left us.
But enought of morbid thoughts. We have a wonderful and fulfilled life and should, as the writing above says, be celebrating every moment.
Sunday 4th October 2009.
This week: After a lay off and a bit of leave I went back to work on Thursday 1st. I also went for a run this morning for the first time in over a week. I am not really sure if I should be calling it running as I am barely able to walk jog the route out. We did the Town Run where I have been cutting short but this morning headed all the way down Bird street and past the Edward hotel. It had begun raining so we ended the run sopping wet but I felt good to be back on the road and doing a little longer than I had anticipated.
Back to work I had to appoint a FSAM to the position of RIana Nel who had left JDG last week. I discussed the applications with Corrie and we decided to appoint Rowena van Eck who was a regional Credit manager for Russells, then moved to the George area with JDG FS and who will now move back to PE where she has a daughter and grandaughter.
Other than this it was a time to catch up with work and to deal with all of the problems of staff with no Riana and Nicky (on leave) to field the questions. Friday evening on my way home, I wondered what to have for supper. I was not in the mood for cooking so stopped off at the Spar and went to the Deli bar. As I browsed I saw a Sushi tray for R30 and decided that we would have a fish supper. I bought the Sushi, some pickled fish and some calamari. It turned out to be an excellent supper that everyone enjoyed.
Saturday morning I was up early and Gerald, Ronel and I ran to Hobie beach where we met up with the rest of the group for a run. This morning it was: Adrienne and son Matthew, Maryna, Adrienne Smith and Anne duRandt were surprise visitors who joined us for the first time; Margie Saunders was there to show us how to really train for an event; Peter Mc Ewan was also a first timer in this group; Pat Scheepers & Suzanne Gendall also met us at Hobie for the run. So we had a merry band of about 12 runners stretched out along the route for a run.
It started off misty with an East wind but the sun soon burned the mist away and we had an excellent morning of jogging. I was in my normal place at the back but when we reached 2nd ave for water at the garage it was only Gerald, Peter, Maryna and I who continued on to Admiralty Way. Tony Button (shirtless) had passed us going the other direction and was oohed and aaahed at by the girls with his magnificent physique. So I decided to run shirtless for the last section but receieved no swooning from anyone. Ce La Vie!
Maryna and Peter decided to include the University in their run and turned right while Gerald I continued down to Beach Road and headed back to Hobie. We met Charmaine as she was coming from her home to start her run. And Judy Blumberg who is looking a little older but still running well. As we finished we were treated to a dolphin swimpast. It had been a good run and despite that fact that my legs were starting to cramp and I was really tired, this is a highlite of my week. Pat and Ronel were waiting for us and they gave me a lift home.
I arrived at home exhausted. Barbara was still in bed and I lay down still wet and sweaty and promptly fell asleep. I think that this was a first for me. I would never normally lie down after a run nor would I do anything before I have had a shower. But I was so weary that I "passed out" there and then.
Barbara had to buy some clothes for Ally for the new term starting Monday and headed off to Clarendon school shop. It was Daniel's Birthday and they went to visit there. Michael had not been feeling well and was also home. I went to work to do some catching up as I knew we would be in meetings on Monday and Tuesday next week.
I collected Barbara and the two of us went to Flight Center where we did some enquiries about the flights to Calgary as Barbara and Gail plan to be there in June 2010.
Later this afternoon I again did "something completely different". Ron and I went to watch Ladies Rugby in Uitenhage. Eastern Province Ladies rugby was, according to the news paper report on the up and they would be playing the Blue Bulls ladies team in a provincial final.
We paid R30 to drive into the stadium at the bottom end of Uitenhage. There were mainly black and coloured people there with a lot of drinking going on. Casks of wine, glass bottles of beer were surprising to see as at all the stadiums that we normally go to all forms of alcohol are controlled and only plastic mugs are allowed. But that having been said there were no problems today.
I had visions of a game that Barbara and I had been to many years ago where there were two local teams playing. The popular coloured team was losing and this was, in the opinion of the spectators, due to bad refereeing. The result was that glass bottles were flung at people on the field and Barbara and I had to flee for our lives as the crowd became totally uncontrolled and we had some near misses with big bottles smashing around us.
Today's game was a treat. The Eastern Province girls (all black and coloured) at first seemed to be out weighed by a big Blue Bulls (many white girls) pack. But the skill of the EP girls was soon evident as they totally dominated the game both in line outs and the back line where there were some unlikely looking girls with speed and agility that could be a lesson to many male teams.
We were delighted to see a half time score of three tries (one converted) to nil. The first two tries were scored by a very agile and capable scrumhalf and the third was scored by a center after a long breakaway run. In the second half the EP side had most of the territory and possession but stuggled to score but then in two excellent moves moved the score up by scoring two more tries (one converted) and preventing the Blue Bulls from scoring with some excellent tacking and defence that did our local team proud.
Niether side had a girl who was a really good kicker. This kept the ball in hand as the only kicks were short stabs and grubber kicks. Even penalties were often taken as though they were "short arm" penalties. Passing out to the centers and wings was the norm and not something to be rarely seen as it is in the mens version. Running with ball in hand, dodging and darting through traffic was often a tactic that proved successful.
The heavy charges of the Blue Bulls big girls was totally unsuccessful as the ball was often lost forward. The final score was 29-0 with the Mighty Elephants scoring 5 tries (two converted). Ron and I had been treated to some excellent rugby despite some really poor refereeing. Interestingly the referee, the linesmen and teams were all female. But the coaches and organisers seemed to be all men. EP had deservedly won the provincial trophy.
Sunday morning
Ally had spent the night at Michael's house. It was Daniels birthday. M & L have gone out to a batchelor party for a family member of Lene's. I collected her and we just had time to get to church. Mike Perks spoke and had an excellent sermon on the chorus: God is so good; He took my Sin; Now I am free.
After church it was down to Nippers where we had a great time with all age groups on a slightly cooler morning doing swimming and boarding. After Nippers we went to Michaels house where we spent the afternoon having lunch and playing bridge.
Sunday 11.10.2009.
Charles is battling with Jamie right now. Jamie appears to be a bit out of control and needs constant attention. We were due to meet Charles and Ingrid for supper but they had to cancel. I am sure that this is a phase and that Jamie will come through it but meanwhile it is tough for this family.
Ally had her Market day on Friday. She and her friend Hanna OBrie have been hard at work making necklaces, braclets, door signs, popcorn, crunchies, brownies and set up a table in the Clarendon Hall. When I collected Ally from her firend's party at the Ten Pin Bowling on Friday evening, Ally was not looking as bright as normal and I established that the Market Day had not gone as they had hoped. There are a number of lessons that they learned from this experience. It was a really good learning tool.
Saturday Morning. I was up early and met Gerald and Ronel and we ran down to Hobie beach where we met: Colin Mc Call, Suzanne, Susan, Anne DuRand, Adrienne Smith, Adrienne Wilson, Maryna Baard. We did the Strandfontein circuit. Passed Bob Stedman en route. Deryck LeRoux passed us as he drove to golf.
As we were finishing along the beach walk we met a young mother and child in a pram: Anja and daughter Johanna. They are a German family who are moving to PE as the Dad has a job here. After this run of around 20kays I am now feeling good for the Meiringspoort 21kay that we plan to run next week.
Ally had a Gala in Uitenhage. It was cold and I think that everyone: Parents and swimmers were freezing cold. I went to a Coaching session run by Anthony Skinner (brian Saunders and Harry) at Summies. We had an excellent turnout: Dianne, John, Varrin, Andrew, Clint, Bruce, Thomas, Roger, Hannes, Alex, Shareen, Lynne, Marius and Peter.
I planned to cycle with John on Sunday morning but the cold and wet put us off. It was still cold, misty and wet when we got down to Nippers on Sunday morning. But there was a good turnout of Nippers and Coaches there. We had some time to start Sprint Coaching as well as doing some In's and Out's of the water. The wind was Easterly and the waves were a mess.
This week at work we had to do a lot of training of a new system that is being introduced. I ran most mornings except Tuesday as it was raining. Gerald and I have been running extremely slowly with lots of walking interspersed. This does not bother me as I am now feeling good for Meiringspoort.
Silver Oak Trees
The silver Oak Trees in Walmer are now at their best with the golden blossoms flowering. I looked up this tree and found out that the tree is known as the Australian Silver-Oak or the Southern Silky Oak tree. Grevillea robusta: It is native to Eastern Australia but does well in South Africa. It is an evergreen, grows fast and suits the South African climate. I saw one of these trees in Jacqui Zeelie's house when I visited Joshua on Grandparents Day. She complains that it makes a big mess with the golden blossoms falling on the playground.
The South African Silver Oak Tree is more like a shrub or bush. It is a dense bush with leathery leaves which are green on the top but have silver coloured hairs on the bottom of the leave which give it a shiny appearance. The South African Silver Oak is also evergreen and fast growing. Brachylaena discolor: It is found in the Coastal Woodlands of the Eastern Cape. The name Discolour refers to the two colours of the leaf.
Saturday 17th October 2009.
This weekend we ran the Meiringspoort half marathon. I have written a separate blog on Meiringspoort.
Sunday 18.10.2009.
Sunday morning: Michael had not been feeling well and we stopped off to see him before going off to Nippers.
At Summerstrand the wind had flattened the waves and we had a wonderful session of which most was in the water. We had the U14's do about 5 times on their Malibu boards out and back. Tough but necessary training. There were a group of about 22 U14's and similar numbers of the other age groups.
All the coaches were able to spend quality time with the Nippers in the water as well as doing Flags.
Jacqui had finally got the clothing back from being branded with ADT who are now our new sponsors. She handed clothing out to parents who have paid subs. Dianne has a wonderful tuck shop going and was selling potjie rolls at R5 and hamburgers at R10. They do a roaring trade and this is a big success at Summerstrand now.
The ADT sponsorship was finalised late on Friday afternoon. Hannes had been working hard to reach an understanding with the management of ADT as to what they would require from us. There is a certain amount of clothing stock that has now been branded with the ADT logo and this will be the new uniform of Summerstrand.
Now that we have this very generous sponsorship finalised we will order and print clothing for our Nippers. Please be a little patient. We will let you know as soon as the clothing is available. Meanwhile; if you have paid your annual subs please talk to Jacqui on Sunday. Jacqui will be at the Nippers cage.
Once a Nipper's annual Subscription has been paid the Nipper will receive a Scull Cap, a chafe vest and a bathing costume. Other clothing will be sold to cover the costs. The Nippers committee has not put any “mark up” on clothing in the past but merely tried to recover the cost price of the uniform. This year will be the first that Nippers will have the uniform included in the Subscription.
It is important to note that we should make an effort to honour the substantial sponsorship that ADT has given to Summerstrand. Please make every effort to wear the ADT branded clothing as soon as you have received it. We would like to phase out the Equisweet branded clothing. The committee has found a suitable and needy outlet for clothing and beach wear that has the Equisweet label.
Micro Nippers: The Annual Subscription for a Micro Nipper is R100. The Micro Nipper will receive an ADT branded scull cap which they should wear on Sundays at practice.
Level Tests: we are now trying to arrange a level test for all Nippers who have moved up an age group or who are first timer's. Rob Mitchley is working tirelessly to set up level tests for Saturday 31st October at Hobie beach: time to be confirmed. YOU HAVE TO PROVIDE ROB WITH A SWIM LETTER. This letter can be signed by you, a swim coach or any other suitable adult. Please make his life easy: don't make him phone you: fax a copy of the letter on Monday.
Robert Mitchley Attorney
Tel: 041 373 1956
Fax: 086 623 0290
Mobile: 082 929 1648
robert.mitchley@vodamail.co.za
Nippers Practice for Sunday 25th: we had thought to arrange a practice at Redhouse but for a number of reasons we will meet at Summerstrand as usual.
Monday morning I was quite stiff and Mike Dean & I decided to do a very short walk run. We chatted about all kinds of stuff: His daughter, Catherine is also not well. She is at University in Cape Town and struggling with health. Debra has completed a degree in property management and is now studying a Post Grad Law degree.
His Medical Technologist is going off on Maternity leave and he is concerned that he will not cope without her specialist knowledge. Mike had done the Ocean Swim on Sunday in a wet suite for the first time. He described what it was to wear a wet suite and how this had changed the dynamics of the swim.
Tuesday and Wednesday we did our slow runs in the morning. Tuesday, Barbara, Ally and I went to Cyclo Pro Rob Rudman and bought ourselves three mountain bikes for R20 750 in total including all the stuff such as slick tyres etc.
Thursday and Friday I was in East London and then Friday evening we had an evening with Charles and Ingrid. They made these Borrito's (chicken and beef wraps) with lettuce, tomato, spring onion, mushroom etc chopped and wrapped in pancakes. A very nice and easy supper. We played a bit of bridge and then collected Ally who had been at Lara O's party at the boardwalk. They had a Survivor party doing all kinds of activities.
Michael and Lene had decided that it would ease some of their tensions and stress if they moved back home with us. So this week they packed up all of their furniture, moved some to our house and then rest to my office basement.
Saturday morning I walked to Adrienne where Pat collected us. We drove down to the beach where we met the gang: Susan, Suzanne, Maryna (piepie Lang Kous), Gerald, Pat, Ronel, Anne Du Rand, Adrienne and myself. We ran along the beach and up Admiralty to Strandfontien. Back to the beach after an hour of running. Then Ronel had wanted to do a Triathlon so we went for a short swim around the buoys. I think that Maryna was a little disappointed as she had wanted a longer run.
Cathy had been to Kenya at the invitation of her work. Saul and her had a luxury holiday of about two weeks in the most wonderful settings in the Serengetti, in craters of old volcano's. They watched the migration of the Wilderbees and Zebra. They saw the RIver Crossing that we see on Nationial Geographic. They witnessed a Zebra being taken out by a crocodile. They did game viewing from Horse back and were able to go right up to the animals. And during all of this they stayed in Luxury accommodation.
When Cathy heard that Michael was struggling with his situation and health she decided that she had to see for herself and give him support. So she flew into PE on Friday immediately on her return from holiday. All of this travel made her system a little weak and she was not feeling her best.
After our run on Saturday morning we drove to Cyclo Pro to collect the Bikes but unfortunately they were not yet ready. The day was cold, windy and overcast so after work that was the end of activity for me. Kevin the gardener and I cleared out some stuff and took it to the tip. But apart from that I did not do anything that Saturday afternoon.
Sunday morning with Cathy and the rest of the family at our home, we took the morning off and started a leisurely day. Barbara dropped Cathy off at the airport and Ally & I went to Nippers:
To all the new Nippers and Parents: Welcome to Nippers. Thank you for choosing Summerstrand.
Please understand that we are all parents just like you who have become involved with our children's activities.
This is not an exclusive bunch of coaches and administrators. We invite you to put on your shorts or bathing costumes and to join us. Either on the beach or assisting at the club house.
I am sure that many Nippers or Parents would have asked the question: "Is there Nippers today?" on Sunday morning.
The answer is that, unless we have told you prior to Sunday, there will be Nippers every Sunday 11am to 13.00. Your coaches will be there.
This Sunday we had an amazing turnout despite the seemingly chilly, windy, wet weather.
The conditions for training have never been better than we have had this season so far.
We have never (in the past few years) had so much time to train Malibu, body board and swimming as we have had this season.
I am pretty sure that we are not the only family who is arriving home on Sunday afternoon completely exhausted.
And, while we have had a few hiccups with Clothing, we have had an amazing group of people doing the admin and tuckshop.
There have been Hot Dogs and Hamburgers for sale each weekend. And everything has been sold out.
The coaches are busy sorting out teams for Plett Carnival. We will send out the program for Plett as soon as we receive it.
U12 and U14's: Please remember that you have to have competed in Carnivals as well as East Cape (Plett next year) to be able to qualify for selection to represent EC as a province.
Energade Triathlon:
The very popular Energade Triathlon is held on Sunday 29th November, at Pollock Beach.
Ally & I have entered for this event. Will you please think about joining us?
It is an event that can be completed by everyone either as a team or as individuals.
Peter
082 550 3174
26.10.2009.
Once we were home, Barbara & I went to the Indigenous Nursery off Kragga Kamma Road. I had done a little research on the Australian and the South African Silver Oak. So we decided to purchase a SA Silver Oak to plant in the garden. We will plant it on the East Wall next to Mill Park Road.
I also purchased a Real Yellowood Tree. I had bought one of these trees about 2 years ago and after digging a hole for this tree for about a week or two I planted it (with lots of ceremony) and it promptly died. So I will pull the old stump out and plant my second attempt this week.
This evening I tried out the Tortilla type wrap (taco, burrito, enchiladas) with chicken and salad. Healthy and filling. Easy to make. Ally loves it and I had to make her one for her lunch the next day.
Monday morning I tried to run but had to stop as my leg was in agony.
Tuesday afternoon: It had been blowing a gale and a number of trees and roofs were blown off. Some people even lost boats in the PE harbour.
It had rained on Monday to Barbara & I went to collect the Bikes from Rob Rudman this afternoon. We phoned first to ensure that they were ready only to be disappointed when we arrived there and they were still not ready. I told Rob how I felt and cleared the air. On our way home we stopped off at Cell C to renew Barbara's cell phone contract. We received excellent service from the young man who was there and Barbara will now have a really snazzy phone.
Wednesday afternoon we finally collected the bikes after having them set up and made ready to cycle. Rob gave us some instructions as to maintenance and the use of the bikes. I really cannot wait to have us cycyle as a family.
This week Lene and Michael went to see how the baby was doing. Lene was able to perform the ultra sound herself but found no heart beat. They then discovered that the baby was going to be stillborn. Very sad for them. Lene had the operation performed during the week and took the rest of the week off to recover.
Hannes and I met up with ADT on Monday morning. We had a really good discussion regarding their sponsorship and what they hope to achieve and how we could benefit from the relationship.
This week I have been battling with a calf muscle injury. I have a prescription for anti inflamatory pills and these work if I take them for about three days in a row. But I am reluctant to take it too regularly. But on Thursday & Friday I took the pills and then on Saturday morning we had a stunning run from Hobie with a swim afterwards. It was Adrienne, Susan, Anne Du Rand and myself. Gerald was running a 27kay race. We swam afterwards. Maryna was not well and brought us a coffee and rusk to the finish.
I went home and after a shower went back to the beach where we had our first round of Level Tests for the season. THe water was cold but the Nippers all passed. Today I had the Gardener plant the Yellow Wood tree that I had bought. I also started a second attempt at a vegetable garden with some tyres that I filled with compost and planted some SPinach, Lettuce, Beans and Cabbage. So we will see what happens.
This afternoon was the Currie Cup final between Blue Bulls and Cheetahs. A good game but was not of that much interest to me. A number of springboks in both teams but the Blie Bulls were favourites and ultimate winners. Ally and friend Lara Swanepoel went to watch a Hip Hop dance competition at Clarendon. It was too long and lasted from around 6.30pm to after ten pm.
And so ended the tenth month of 2009. Busy as always, fulfilling, sad, family drama, work activity, Barbara's school takes a beating, I battle with running injury but also have one of the best runs that I have had in ages, Nippers is in full swing with our first level test of the season completed and Rugby is over for this season. We buy some Mountain bikes but I have trouble on the first day that I use mine as the rear wheel falls off and the brakes jam up.
Peter Giddy
31.10.2009.
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