Peter Giddy Guided Tours ----
Contact Peter -- peter.giddy@gmail.com
Phone and Whatsup +27 (0)825503174
May 2018
Tours offered include:
Contact Peter -- peter.giddy@gmail.com
The last time I ran was on 30th March when I ran my 10th Two Oceans 21kay. I am happy to say that I am now one of the few PE people who have two "Blue" Permanent Numbers. I have an Ultra and a Half Marathon Permanent Number for Two Oceans.
Ronel; Elmarie; Susan; Pat; Adrienne; Mike; Lindi; Kelly; Andrea; Viv; Chris; Anton.
Tuesday 1st May.
This morning is a Public Holiday so we meet on the beachfront for an 8kay run. I feel good to be back with the running group and getting the outdoor activity.
Stukens Hiking Trail with the Wednesday group.
Today we are 31 on the hike.
Great to be back with this group of people.
White and orange tipped butterfly.. Known as a Red Tip Butterfly. Colotis Antevippe.
Red Tip Butterfly . Larva feed on the Sheperds Tree.
Protea. Robin and Dave at the back of the group
Red Lily flower
Red Lily flower
Not sure if this is the same flower
Wednesday I join the Hiking group and we walk the Stukens Route from Lovemore Heights.
It is back to school for Zara; Chris; Aaron and Mia in Cape Town.
Daniel positions himself under the poles in defence.
Daniel is in Center position and here tackles a boy which, in doing so, saves a try.
Barbara and I watch Daniel play Rugby. Vs Westering. He plays full back and center.
The splendour of a King
Clothed in Majesty
Let all the earth rejoice
All the earth rejoice
How great is our God
Sing with me, how great is our God
And all will see how great. how great is our God
He wraps himself in light
And darkness tries to hide
And trembles at his voice
Trembles at his voice
Age to age he stands
And time is in his hands
The beginning and the end
Beginning and the end
The Godhead three in one
Father, Sprit, Son
The lion and the lamb
Lion and the lamb.
Name above all names
You are worthy of all praise
And my heart will sing
How great is our God
How great is our God
Sing with me how great is our God
And all will see how great, how great is our God.
Wednesday evening I join the Alpha Team as joint leader with Brian Brunet.
Paulo and Werner prepare to hit the road for a Road trip where they will be playing in front of a number of audiences.
Nicky's Children prepare to return to school after a long weekend break. Zara; Christian, Aaron and Mia.
Thursday morning. I take a break from running as I have now run two days in a row. Plus the Wednesday hike. Too much after a month of no running. I visit Ron and do some Dole stuff.
Friday. The walking group of Gaye; Adel who is moving to Thailand soon; Mitchell; Adrienne; Liesl and myself who jogs with the group.
I have a city tour with Russell and four students from Cincinatti -- Lori; Stacey; Katie and Eli.
Daniel is at Scrumhalf and in the thick of his game.
He seems to take on the role of Captain as he instructs his fellow players on positions and tactics. They are playing Woodridge. Both teams play hard. Clarendon win with Daniel making tackles and runs with the ball.
The taxi comes in from the left turning lane -- Cape Road and Third Avenue intersection. Thursday 3.5.2018
Paulo and Werner are doing a Road Trip -- Music -- and visit us for a few days. Jamming with David on violin. They make a video as well.
Saturday 5th. Run with Adrienne; Chris; Anne; Lindi.
Rugby at Clarendon Park. I am Linesman for Gareth's U11 team. Daniel plays at Scrumhalf and does and excellent job of Tackling and Running with the ball. They beat Woodridge Hands Down.
Sunday 6th. Paulo and Werner leave for Coffee Bay. I do a 7kay training run.
Monday -- Back to Swimming. After a 6 week break I manage one Km. A bit later I do a 6km walk.
Admin morning and meet with Stuart this afternoon. Church meeting with Mike Perks and then Cell Group later. Garden and shed clean up. VW in for 104 000km service.
Not Gooseberries?
Found both of these in the Baakens Valley.
Tuesday is a busy morning for me. Run with Viv and Kelly; Adrienne, Liesl. Chris and Stefany walking. Then I meet Kate and I run around Grey twice with her chatting about her Camino of last year and a planned Camino for this year.
Chris fetches me and we cycle the Baakens Valley. A short ride but just getting back into it.
Then I bake Two batches of Rusks and one batch of Crunchies. I enter a couple of events at Brian Bands and chat to Mike and to Youart. Then take our faulty Microwave oven to Chris Bury appliances and have a long chat with him. Then I visit Gerald but he is not home. I have two keys cut and finally renew some swimming Pool Credits at Newton Park.
This afternoon Barbara and I walk around Grey. Nicky phones to tell us about her business proposal for an event scheduled for 2019. This could be a real business boost for her organisation if it works out. I make a big pot of Chicken soup which will last us a couple of meals.
30 people join the Wednesday Walkers for a hiking in Settlers Park.
Wednesday. I start the morning with a 1200m swim with Megan. I walk with the Wednesday walkers in Settlers Park from How ave to Dodds Farm. This walk takes us about 2.5hours. Richard gives us a bit of history regarding the name Dodds Farm. The Dodds family purchased the land in the 1940's and used it for cultivation; horses and livestock. They did not build a Farm House as they lived in Walmer. During the 1960's the Port Elizabeth authorities proposed locating a road over the Baakens Valley and over Dodds Farm. Following on this proposal they purchased the land from the Dodds Family. They road was never completed and the Municipality now owns this land.
After our snack; Richard, who is an historian with the Port Elizabeth Historical Society, gives us a talk about the name Dodds Farm
We listen with interest as Richard explains how the name originated from the Walmer family Dodds.
Today on the walk there are 30 of us. Robin leads from the front as usual. We take the upper pathway from the How avenue parking area of Settlers Park and then down to the river below. I bring up the rear and wear a bright shirt so that Robin can see me at the back. We cross the river and then continue towards Target Kloof where we use the bridge under the road to cross.
We use the Fat Tracks cycle pathway which has been upgraded and is ideal for cycling or for hiking. It is probably always best to walk or cycle in groups as there have been attacks on people in this area.
Difficult to see but this stone reads -- Jan Smuts Walk / Wandlepad and is at the top of the steep pathway that leads to the river below.
The group at the end of the hike.
We stop at Dodds Farm where the terraced area is for a snack and rest before returning a much shorter route on the top pathway and then down to the river; under the bridge and then up the hill to Walmer. Finally we walk up the Jan Smuts Walk (Wandlepad) to the parking area.
Alpha -- Brian; Peter and Sheila Mc Williams; Charlie; Brian and Hermine; Frank and Joy; Grace and Pepe make up our Group.
Daniel has a really good game at Clarendon.
Blake takes part in a 5k event. A long distance for little legs.
Wednesday afternoon -- Daniel has Rugby and I am linesman for two matches. Daniel has a great game running and tackling and even scores a Try. Today they win their match hands down. I also Linesman for Gareth U11a and they too win their match convincingly.
This evening I have Alpha where I am co leader with Brian Brunette.
Thursday I have a Group of three for Addo -- Pictured here -- Julian; Alex and Jackie.
Friday I take Alaa who is from Egypt and who now works for the World Bank in Madagascar.
Achilles men -- Tremaine and Bob
Viv with Percy and Graham at the start
Nearly 2500 runners and Walkers take part today
Viv working hard for the 62 minute 10kay.
Achilleans at the end of the run... Ken; Bob; Graham; Tremaine; Liz and Liz; Graeme; Michael Botha.
Octavia gives her team mate a Massage
Saturday morning. I pick up Viv for the Sunridge Park 10kay. Last year I was with Maria who I miss at these events. It was her enthusiasm and love for the events which made it so much fun for me.
Viv and I run together. It is a hilly course so a PB is not on the cards. We run just over an hour for our Ten Kay this morning.
Pat is doing registration
Susan is also on Registration Duty this morning.
Joshua has the ball and is determined to hold on and to move forward. In the first half it was virtually only Josh who played as hard as he is seen to be playing in this pic.
Immediately after the Run I watch Joshua play his U14E team Grey vs Wynberg. It is a Derby day with Rugby and Hockey being played all over the place. Joshua is left Flanker.
In the first half Wynberg are all over Grey scoring Four runaway Tries to Grey's one. The half time score is Wynberg 28 - Grey 5.
After half time the Grey boys have a new injection of energy and fight. They score three tries within the first 10 minutes of the second half and go on to score 6 tries to Wynberg's two. So the final score is Grey 43 to Wynberg 38. A really hard fought and great match to watch.
I have to go to Vodacom to fetch my phone which has been in for repairs -- It would not connect to Wifi. Huawei have replaced the phone so I have a new phone with just a few months to go on my contract.
Rugby at Grey this weekend is Vs Wynberg
Lene; Barbara; John; Gary; Joy; Di and Liesl.
This afternoon we watch rugby. I watch four games from 4ths to the first team. And Grey win all matches except the last one. Wynberg win the first team match.
Paulo and Werner set out off on their Western and Eastern Cape Road trip.
School for Zara. Christian. Aaron and Mia
Aaron goes off to George to play in a tournament.
Emily has a function in Israel where they love their traditions and ceremonies.
Nicky hosts a Braai for the traveling hockey team.
Zara and her Netball team -- they have a successful match on Saturday winning 7-0
Sunday is Mothers day..
Monday... Swimming 1200m with Megan; Armand; Greg; Chantalay and we meet Jo Tucker.
This morning I have a City Tour with Bob and Cathy Rogers who are presently living in Swaziland but who are American. This evening we have Cell Group.
Tuesday -- Running with Chris; Adrienne and Jenna. Opel in for service. Walk home. So this morning I have run / walked about 12-14k
Barbara and I do some Brochure handing out for FCT for Nicky.
Cape Recife Hiking trail ... With Megan Holden and the group. Snack Break.
Wednesday. Swim 1300m with Megan; Chantalay; Rob; Armand and Greg. Hiking at Cape Recife. Megan joins us for the first time.
Joshua has his arm in a splint.
Taken by Ambulance to the Hospital for Xrays and pain killers.
Clarendon U13B team. Coach Tait gives them final instructions.
Daniels team beats St Georges 26-5. Daniel plays in the second half as Scrumhalf.
Wednesday afternoon both Joshua (Grey U14E and Daniel Clarendon U12B) play rugby. Josh fears for nothing and is tackled hard. Knees on his arm and he ends up with a right forearm broken. Lene takes him to hospital for Xrays.
Daniels team play a great game vs St Georges. He gets a chance to play in the second half and makes us proud with his speed, running with the ball while side stepping and great tackling.
Brian; Hermine; Shelia; Peter; Brian; Frank; Joy; Grace and Pepe. Charles is a little late. Every evening we have been having a meal and salad.
This evening I have Alpha. Brian is our leader and I am his assistant.
Thursday morning ... Running with Elmarie; Thembi; Chris; Lindi; Mike; Liesl and Owen joins us from his house to the cars. Then I meet up with Kate and run around Grey with her.
Henry and Henry -- Just out of school and now on holiday in SA and Tanzania.
After my run I join the hiking group and we walk from Something Good. I am on my way on the Humewood beach when I receive a call to do an Addo. So I have to run back to Something Good. Get in to my car and rush around getting ready for a tour. Pick these two chaps up and do the tour with them.
Friday 18th. Swimming 1200m with Megan. I had woken up feeling sorry for myself with a sore eye. But knowing that Megan was fetching I felt that I had to get up. Ended up really enjoying the swim.
Later I see the optician for the eye. I buy driving glasses and he prescribes eye drops for the "bacterial infection" which is causing my eye to be sore. This evening is the first of two days of Alpha Weekend. Held at church.
Saturday morning. Run with Chris; Lindi and Liesl.
The Alpha Leadership team with Leanne; Hilton; Ben; Zinzi; Ansie; Zena and Tracey in pic.
Alpha weekend continues for the day. All day at Alpha. This weekend we have 5 separate sessions.
Nicky and family (Chris; Mia; Aaron and Zara) watch the Royal Wedding (Prince Harry and Megan)
Nicky builds a puppet stage with working parts for Christian's School project
Werner and Paulo are at Coffee Bay and Hole in the Wall
Sunday. Barbara and I walk around Grey and then later at the beach. And that is about what we do today.
Cycling the Golf Course with Megan. We do two circuits.
Adele and Mitch. Chris; Ronel. John and Anne. Viv left earlier.
The gang at Adrienne's birthday function at Arkenstone -- Daniel; Peter; Ronel; Kathrine and Bernt.
Adrienne; Elmarie and Pat -- Very funny remark from Peter W
Monday 21st. Adrienne's Birthday. I start the day with a 1500m Swim with Megan. Monday afternoon cycle the golf course with Megan and then this evening celebrating Adrienne's birthday at Arkenstone Restaurant.
Kevin Mitchel helped me to identify this as a Denhams Bustard (Neotis Denhamii) Seen on Vukani in Addo
Alan; Chrissy and Peter at Spekboom Hide
Probably my best ever sighting of a Secretary Bird.
We had, earlier, seen a single Secretary bird. Later, on the Serengeti plains, we see this pair as they stride through the long grass looking for snakes. Fortunately for us they came right up to the car as we watched them.
Tuesday. Run the Linkside circuit with Chris; Lindi and Liesl.
I have an Addo tour with Alan and Chrissy from Melbourne Australia. Most successful as they both seemed to have fun as well as seeing a wide variety of wildlife including the Secretary bird right next to the car and a pair of Lions (Sleeping in the distance).
Van Stadens Flower reserve
Alan and Chrissy on the trail
This is known as the River Walk and follows the contour of the Van Stadens River below.
The Van Stadens bridge over the N2 which we will climb under to do the Forest Walk.
The forest walk is not at all clear despite the orange stickers.
The Forest Walk is not an easy walk but certainly quite doable for a reasonably fit person.
At the top of the Forest Walk. This is the group that completed both the River and the Forest Walk. Denis led the group as Robin was not able to make it. Dave; Flo; Steve; Alwyn; Lynne; David; Ian is obscured; Russell; a new lady who I think is Debbie; Des; Verna came with Lynne; Keith and my two guests: Alan and Chrissy.
The bird Hide on a dam that appears to be quite full. Lots of Lillies and water flowers.
At the water / bird hide.
Flo and Lynne.
Alan in the bird Hide. There is a list of birds that can be found as well as a register.
At the Sacramento Canon / Trail.
A Long Crested Eagle (lophaetus occipitalis) Seen on the Marine Drive.
The Eagle just about to take off in flight.
Wednesday. Paulo and Werner stay over and then leave for Wilderness and Knysna where they have gigs set up. I swim 1200m with Megan. I continue with Chrissy and Alan as we walk the Van Stadens Flower reserve and then visit Kragga Kamma. After a doubtful start, Chrissy who had not been feeling well, managed the complete Hiking trail -- Both the River and the Forest walks. This morning turned out to be a beautiful day with clear skies and wonderful views overlooking the valleys.
Kragga Kamma was at its best. Today we witnessed a Cheetah Fight. One of the Cheetahs that is normally kept in the large enclosure was being bullied by his siblings. So the rangers made a decision to put him with Monty in the private enclosure. It seems that they dont like each other and there has been some fighting going on as we see that Monty (the tame cheetah) has a nasty scratch on his nose. We witnessed these two males scrapping ... fast and furious fights where either one could hurt the other.
Today we saw the Rhino up close; we also saw the Duiker and Bushbuk which I seldom see as they are both shy and remain hidden in the bushes.
We take a drive around the Marine drive and visit the Sacramento Trail to end the day.
Norm Hudlin Thursday Walking group. There were well over 50 people at the hike this morning. Some do the Short and others the Long (8km) walk
The men on the Long Walk bantering during the break. The leader today was Andy. Alan Hancock is going to visit family in the UK for a month.
Thursday morning. Running with Chris; Lindi; Michael; Adrienne and Viv. And then joined Kate for a once around Grey.
Thursday hiking group at Norm Hudlin. Probably over 50 walkers and hikers. Andy and Alan lead the Long Walk. There are about 30 of us on this walk. It is on the Bike Trails. We try to walk in the direction facing the oncoming cyclists. The trails are quiet and we dont encounter any bikers. This was my first time to walk this trail. I have, on many occasions, cycled it before. For walking it is quite flat and provides an interesting alternative trail.
Friday. Signs of rain in PE and there are heavy downpours in Cape Town. Every drop is needed. This morning I swim with Megan.
Forest Hill at the Airforce Museum. Start of the 21km event.
This group are waiting for the start of the 10km. Liz; Bob; Liz and Gail.
Ronel; Viv and I had come together.
Ronel takes a short break at half way to have a drink.
Viv tends to carry her own water.
Bob running the 10km.
We finish the 10km within minutes of each other. Here Liz; Gail; Linda and Ronel celebrate.
Peter and Viv ... Happy with reasonable times.
Finishing the 10k with Ally's School friend, Shannon
74 222 1114 GAIL KLICHOWICZ ACH F 51 50-54F 0.55.18 1
76 223 1147 LIZ PRINS ACH F 48 45-49F 0.55.40 1
82 307 5307 SHANNON BRADFORD TEMP F 21 SF 0.56.25 0
83 138 1116 PETER GIDDY ACH M 67 65-69M 0.56.26 1
89 203 1186 LINDA HARWOOD ACH F 49 45-49F 0.57.31 1
87 344 5344 RONEL SCHEEPERS PEAAC F 43 40-44F 0.57.16 1
99 242 705 OCTAVIA BOSHOFF CRUSADE F 48 45-49F 0.58.46 1
116 334 5334 VIVIENNE MITCHELL TEMP F 54 50-54F 0.59.47 0
125 5 74 SUSAN BURRI PEAAC F 56 55-59F 1.00.35 1
213 146 1122 BOB STEDMAN ACH M 68 65-69M 1.09.47 1
Saturday 26th.
I pick up Ronel and Viv and we run the 10k at the Airforce Museum behind Forest Hill. We are there early and park on the field. Probably a mistake as we were nearly parked in later when we wanted to leave.
At the start there is general chaos as the 21k event starts. People are arriving in the direction that the race is due to run. Parking and general organisation has not provided for the large numbers this morning. The race starts about 10 minutes late as the referees try to rectify the situation.
The 10k gets off 5 minutes late at 7.20am. The route takes us on the road back towards Summerstrand and after a short while we make a right turn on and all the way up this road. At 5km we loop around and run back to the start. It is a simple and almost flat course.
Andrea and Brigitta at Domkrag Dam lookout.
Picnic Lunch at Jacks with Brigitta and Andrea.
Three Lion cubs near to Lismore.
A puffadder on the road near to Marion Baree
This morning I pick up Brigitta (a Pediatrician) and Andrea (Pediatric Nurse) from Vienna; Austria from Addo Wildlife. They are on holiday in South Africa and also attending a conference in Durban at the end of their holiday. Today we have a wonderful Addo Safari. It is both fun and we have great sightings -- Perhaps best of all are the variety of birds we see? In addition we see Elephant, Buffalo, Zebra, Antelope and towards the end of the day we see lions fairly close to the road. We even see a puffadder which is probably the rarest of all sightings.
City and Township Tour with Sarah.
Spanish Omelette for supper. Tortillas with baby spinach; Tuna; Onion; Sweet Potato; Green Beans.
Monday 28th. Start the day with a 1500m swim: Megan; Chantalay; Armand and Greg.
City / Township Tour with Sarah Diehl -- Writer, Scuba Diver and traveler from Germany.
Tuesday. Running with Michael; Jenna and Chris.
Horse Riding in the Nyati Section where Sarah saw a variety of animals up close
Xolani was the Guide today. Sarah was on Moonlight
Algoa lookout. Sarah is astride a Termite Hill.
Addo Safari with Sarah..... Journalist and Author from Berlin, Germany. She also does the Horse Riding in Nyati Section which she says is a highlight.
Top of Ladys Slipper looking across to Jeffreys Bay.
Wednesday 30th. Start the morning with a 1500m swim with Megan; Chantalay; Armand and Merko.
Daniel is left flank vs Grey who are simply too strong for Clarendon.
Ladys Slipper hiking trail with Sarah and 15 other hikers. Daniel plays Rugby in the afternoon vs Grey. He plays Left Flank.
Thursday 31st May. Running in the morning. Mike; Chris and Lindi. Then I join Kate for a once around Grey.
A Male Jackal Buzzard in full plumage. Common bird in this area.
Addo Tour with Anandi (Law student from Polokwane) and Frederik (Hunter from Sweden).
Meeting with Peter; Frank and Alan. Not a good month for SA Guided.
The splendour of a king
Clothed in majesty
Let all the earth rejoice
All the earth rejoice
He wraps Himself in light,
And darkness tries to hide
And trembles at His voice
Trembles at His voice
How great is our God
Sing with me
How great is our God
And all will see
How great, how great is our God
Age to age He stands
And time is in His hands
Beginning and the end
Beginning and the end
The Godhead Three in One
Father, Spirit and Son
The Lion and the Lamb
The Lion and the Lamb
Name above all names
Worthy of all praise
My heart will sing
How great is our God
May 2018
Tours offered include:
- Garden Route -- Port Elizabeth; Tsitsikamma; Oudtshoorn; Plettenberg Bay; Knysna; Wilderness; Mossel Bay; Hermanus and Cape Town Adventures and activities.
- Wildlife Reserves -- Addo Elephant; Kragga Kamma Wildlife and all private reserve transfers
- City; Historical and Cultural, and Township Tours (Port Elizabeth; Uitenhage and Grahamstown)
- Hikes and Walks around Port Elizabeth
- Airport; Wildlife Reserve and Hotel Transfers
Contact Peter -- peter.giddy@gmail.com
The last time I ran was on 30th March when I ran my 10th Two Oceans 21kay. I am happy to say that I am now one of the few PE people who have two "Blue" Permanent Numbers. I have an Ultra and a Half Marathon Permanent Number for Two Oceans.
Tuesday 1st May.
This morning is a Public Holiday so we meet on the beachfront for an 8kay run. I feel good to be back with the running group and getting the outdoor activity.
Wednesday I join the Hiking group and we walk the Stukens Route from Lovemore Heights.
Barbara and I watch Daniel play Rugby. Vs Westering. He plays full back and center.
The splendour of a King
Clothed in Majesty
Let all the earth rejoice
All the earth rejoice
How great is our God
Sing with me, how great is our God
And all will see how great. how great is our God
He wraps himself in light
And darkness tries to hide
And trembles at his voice
Trembles at his voice
Age to age he stands
And time is in his hands
The beginning and the end
Beginning and the end
The Godhead three in one
Father, Sprit, Son
The lion and the lamb
Lion and the lamb.
Name above all names
You are worthy of all praise
And my heart will sing
How great is our God
How great is our God
Sing with me how great is our God
And all will see how great, how great is our God.
Wednesday evening I join the Alpha Team as joint leader with Brian Brunet.
Thursday morning. I take a break from running as I have now run two days in a row. Plus the Wednesday hike. Too much after a month of no running. I visit Ron and do some Dole stuff.
Friday. The walking group of Gaye; Adel who is moving to Thailand soon; Mitchell; Adrienne; Liesl and myself who jogs with the group.
I have a city tour with Russell and four students from Cincinatti -- Lori; Stacey; Katie and Eli.
Saturday 5th. Run with Adrienne; Chris; Anne; Lindi.
Rugby at Clarendon Park. I am Linesman for Gareth's U11 team. Daniel plays at Scrumhalf and does and excellent job of Tackling and Running with the ball. They beat Woodridge Hands Down.
Sunday 6th. Paulo and Werner leave for Coffee Bay. I do a 7kay training run.
Monday -- Back to Swimming. After a 6 week break I manage one Km. A bit later I do a 6km walk.
Admin morning and meet with Stuart this afternoon. Church meeting with Mike Perks and then Cell Group later. Garden and shed clean up. VW in for 104 000km service.
Lantana.... Looks pretty but is an invasive weed in the Baakens valley of Port Elizabeth.
Found both of these in the Baakens Valley.
Open the eyes of my heart Lord
open the eyes of my heart
I want to see you
I want to see you
To see you high and lifted up
shining in the light of your glory
pour out your power and love
as we sing: Holy, Holy, holy
Holy, Holy, Holy
Holy, Holy, Holy
Holy, Holy, Holy
I want to see you
I want to see you
Chris fetches me and we cycle the Baakens Valley. A short ride but just getting back into it.
Then I bake Two batches of Rusks and one batch of Crunchies. I enter a couple of events at Brian Bands and chat to Mike and to Youart. Then take our faulty Microwave oven to Chris Bury appliances and have a long chat with him. Then I visit Gerald but he is not home. I have two keys cut and finally renew some swimming Pool Credits at Newton Park.
This afternoon Barbara and I walk around Grey. Nicky phones to tell us about her business proposal for an event scheduled for 2019. This could be a real business boost for her organisation if it works out. I make a big pot of Chicken soup which will last us a couple of meals.
Wednesday. I start the morning with a 1200m swim with Megan. I walk with the Wednesday walkers in Settlers Park from How ave to Dodds Farm. This walk takes us about 2.5hours. Richard gives us a bit of history regarding the name Dodds Farm. The Dodds family purchased the land in the 1940's and used it for cultivation; horses and livestock. They did not build a Farm House as they lived in Walmer. During the 1960's the Port Elizabeth authorities proposed locating a road over the Baakens Valley and over Dodds Farm. Following on this proposal they purchased the land from the Dodds Family. They road was never completed and the Municipality now owns this land.
Today on the walk there are 30 of us. Robin leads from the front as usual. We take the upper pathway from the How avenue parking area of Settlers Park and then down to the river below. I bring up the rear and wear a bright shirt so that Robin can see me at the back. We cross the river and then continue towards Target Kloof where we use the bridge under the road to cross.
We use the Fat Tracks cycle pathway which has been upgraded and is ideal for cycling or for hiking. It is probably always best to walk or cycle in groups as there have been attacks on people in this area.
We stop at Dodds Farm where the terraced area is for a snack and rest before returning a much shorter route on the top pathway and then down to the river; under the bridge and then up the hill to Walmer. Finally we walk up the Jan Smuts Walk (Wandlepad) to the parking area.
Wednesday afternoon -- Daniel has Rugby and I am linesman for two matches. Daniel has a great game running and tackling and even scores a Try. Today they win their match hands down. I also Linesman for Gareth U11a and they too win their match convincingly.
This evening I have Alpha where I am co leader with Brian Brunette.
Friday I take Alaa who is from Egypt and who now works for the World Bank in Madagascar.
Saturday morning. I pick up Viv for the Sunridge Park 10kay. Last year I was with Maria who I miss at these events. It was her enthusiasm and love for the events which made it so much fun for me.
Viv and I run together. It is a hilly course so a PB is not on the cards. We run just over an hour for our Ten Kay this morning.
Immediately after the Run I watch Joshua play his U14E team Grey vs Wynberg. It is a Derby day with Rugby and Hockey being played all over the place. Joshua is left Flanker.
In the first half Wynberg are all over Grey scoring Four runaway Tries to Grey's one. The half time score is Wynberg 28 - Grey 5.
After half time the Grey boys have a new injection of energy and fight. They score three tries within the first 10 minutes of the second half and go on to score 6 tries to Wynberg's two. So the final score is Grey 43 to Wynberg 38. A really hard fought and great match to watch.
I have to go to Vodacom to fetch my phone which has been in for repairs -- It would not connect to Wifi. Huawei have replaced the phone so I have a new phone with just a few months to go on my contract.
This afternoon we watch rugby. I watch four games from 4ths to the first team. And Grey win all matches except the last one. Wynberg win the first team match.
Sunday is Mothers day..
Monday... Swimming 1200m with Megan; Armand; Greg; Chantalay and we meet Jo Tucker.
This morning I have a City Tour with Bob and Cathy Rogers who are presently living in Swaziland but who are American. This evening we have Cell Group.
Tuesday -- Running with Chris; Adrienne and Jenna. Opel in for service. Walk home. So this morning I have run / walked about 12-14k
Barbara and I do some Brochure handing out for FCT for Nicky.
Wednesday. Swim 1300m with Megan; Chantalay; Rob; Armand and Greg. Hiking at Cape Recife. Megan joins us for the first time.
Wednesday afternoon both Joshua (Grey U14E and Daniel Clarendon U12B) play rugby. Josh fears for nothing and is tackled hard. Knees on his arm and he ends up with a right forearm broken. Lene takes him to hospital for Xrays.
Daniels team play a great game vs St Georges. He gets a chance to play in the second half and makes us proud with his speed, running with the ball while side stepping and great tackling.
This evening I have Alpha. Brian is our leader and I am his assistant.
Thursday morning ... Running with Elmarie; Thembi; Chris; Lindi; Mike; Liesl and Owen joins us from his house to the cars. Then I meet up with Kate and run around Grey with her.
After my run I join the hiking group and we walk from Something Good. I am on my way on the Humewood beach when I receive a call to do an Addo. So I have to run back to Something Good. Get in to my car and rush around getting ready for a tour. Pick these two chaps up and do the tour with them.
Friday 18th. Swimming 1200m with Megan. I had woken up feeling sorry for myself with a sore eye. But knowing that Megan was fetching I felt that I had to get up. Ended up really enjoying the swim.
Later I see the optician for the eye. I buy driving glasses and he prescribes eye drops for the "bacterial infection" which is causing my eye to be sore. This evening is the first of two days of Alpha Weekend. Held at church.
Saturday morning. Run with Chris; Lindi and Liesl.
Alpha weekend continues for the day. All day at Alpha. This weekend we have 5 separate sessions.
Monday 21st. Adrienne's Birthday. I start the day with a 1500m Swim with Megan. Monday afternoon cycle the golf course with Megan and then this evening celebrating Adrienne's birthday at Arkenstone Restaurant.
Tuesday. Run the Linkside circuit with Chris; Lindi and Liesl.
I have an Addo tour with Alan and Chrissy from Melbourne Australia. Most successful as they both seemed to have fun as well as seeing a wide variety of wildlife including the Secretary bird right next to the car and a pair of Lions (Sleeping in the distance).
Wednesday. Paulo and Werner stay over and then leave for Wilderness and Knysna where they have gigs set up. I swim 1200m with Megan. I continue with Chrissy and Alan as we walk the Van Stadens Flower reserve and then visit Kragga Kamma. After a doubtful start, Chrissy who had not been feeling well, managed the complete Hiking trail -- Both the River and the Forest walks. This morning turned out to be a beautiful day with clear skies and wonderful views overlooking the valleys.
Kragga Kamma was at its best. Today we witnessed a Cheetah Fight. One of the Cheetahs that is normally kept in the large enclosure was being bullied by his siblings. So the rangers made a decision to put him with Monty in the private enclosure. It seems that they dont like each other and there has been some fighting going on as we see that Monty (the tame cheetah) has a nasty scratch on his nose. We witnessed these two males scrapping ... fast and furious fights where either one could hurt the other.
Today we saw the Rhino up close; we also saw the Duiker and Bushbuk which I seldom see as they are both shy and remain hidden in the bushes.
We take a drive around the Marine drive and visit the Sacramento Trail to end the day.
Thursday morning. Running with Chris; Lindi; Michael; Adrienne and Viv. And then joined Kate for a once around Grey.
Thursday hiking group at Norm Hudlin. Probably over 50 walkers and hikers. Andy and Alan lead the Long Walk. There are about 30 of us on this walk. It is on the Bike Trails. We try to walk in the direction facing the oncoming cyclists. The trails are quiet and we dont encounter any bikers. This was my first time to walk this trail. I have, on many occasions, cycled it before. For walking it is quite flat and provides an interesting alternative trail.
Friday. Signs of rain in PE and there are heavy downpours in Cape Town. Every drop is needed. This morning I swim with Megan.
74 222 1114 GAIL KLICHOWICZ ACH F 51 50-54F 0.55.18 1
76 223 1147 LIZ PRINS ACH F 48 45-49F 0.55.40 1
82 307 5307 SHANNON BRADFORD TEMP F 21 SF 0.56.25 0
83 138 1116 PETER GIDDY ACH M 67 65-69M 0.56.26 1
89 203 1186 LINDA HARWOOD ACH F 49 45-49F 0.57.31 1
87 344 5344 RONEL SCHEEPERS PEAAC F 43 40-44F 0.57.16 1
99 242 705 OCTAVIA BOSHOFF CRUSADE F 48 45-49F 0.58.46 1
116 334 5334 VIVIENNE MITCHELL TEMP F 54 50-54F 0.59.47 0
125 5 74 SUSAN BURRI PEAAC F 56 55-59F 1.00.35 1
213 146 1122 BOB STEDMAN ACH M 68 65-69M 1.09.47 1
Saturday 26th.
I pick up Ronel and Viv and we run the 10k at the Airforce Museum behind Forest Hill. We are there early and park on the field. Probably a mistake as we were nearly parked in later when we wanted to leave.
At the start there is general chaos as the 21k event starts. People are arriving in the direction that the race is due to run. Parking and general organisation has not provided for the large numbers this morning. The race starts about 10 minutes late as the referees try to rectify the situation.
The 10k gets off 5 minutes late at 7.20am. The route takes us on the road back towards Summerstrand and after a short while we make a right turn on and all the way up this road. At 5km we loop around and run back to the start. It is a simple and almost flat course.
This morning I pick up Brigitta (a Pediatrician) and Andrea (Pediatric Nurse) from Vienna; Austria from Addo Wildlife. They are on holiday in South Africa and also attending a conference in Durban at the end of their holiday. Today we have a wonderful Addo Safari. It is both fun and we have great sightings -- Perhaps best of all are the variety of birds we see? In addition we see Elephant, Buffalo, Zebra, Antelope and towards the end of the day we see lions fairly close to the road. We even see a puffadder which is probably the rarest of all sightings.
Monday 28th. Start the day with a 1500m swim: Megan; Chantalay; Armand and Greg.
City / Township Tour with Sarah Diehl -- Writer, Scuba Diver and traveler from Germany.
Tuesday. Running with Michael; Jenna and Chris.
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| Lunch at Jacks |
Addo Safari with Sarah..... Journalist and Author from Berlin, Germany. She also does the Horse Riding in Nyati Section which she says is a highlight.
Wednesday 30th. Start the morning with a 1500m swim with Megan; Chantalay; Armand and Merko.
Ladys Slipper hiking trail with Sarah and 15 other hikers. Daniel plays Rugby in the afternoon vs Grey. He plays Left Flank.
Thursday 31st May. Running in the morning. Mike; Chris and Lindi. Then I join Kate for a once around Grey.
Meeting with Peter; Frank and Alan. Not a good month for SA Guided.
The splendour of a king
Clothed in majesty
Let all the earth rejoice
All the earth rejoice
He wraps Himself in light,
And darkness tries to hide
And trembles at His voice
Trembles at His voice
How great is our God
Sing with me
How great is our God
And all will see
How great, how great is our God
Age to age He stands
And time is in His hands
Beginning and the end
Beginning and the end
The Godhead Three in One
Father, Spirit and Son
The Lion and the Lamb
The Lion and the Lamb
Name above all names
Worthy of all praise
My heart will sing
How great is our God
