Wildcliff trip Ron, Stefan, Ian, Jenny & Peter.
Tuesday 14th to Sunday 18th January 2009
Stefan had said how keen he was for another Wildcliff trip and this is how we came to arrange this outing. Jacqui and her two children; Emily and Annabell were staying PE for two months and would be travelling to Cathy’s wedding on the 8th February. Ally had a week of intensive swim training and this is how I came to invite Ron to accompany me. I had planned to leave on Wednesday afternoon but Morkels head office called me to an urgent meeting regarding retrenchments in Johannesburg on the Friday 16th.
Ron & I managed to leave the office early on Tuesday afternoon and we were on the road to WC by about 15.00pm. We stopped off in Plett at Ena’s flat for tea and to collect some of Ena’s Rusks as well as her recipe for the Rusks. It was a brief stop and we headed off for Heidelberg where we filled up with Petrol. We reached WC by about 20.00pm.
Ian was not there as he was working in Johannesburg with Rand Merchant Bank and Standard Bank. Ian tells me that he works with Structured Finance, Mergers and Acquisitions. Jenny had made us some Spinach Pies but we had had a toasted sandwich in Heidelberg and were too tired to eat anything more.
Keith, Paula, Abigail and Bryce are the managing family for the next two years. Keith is ex US Air Force and has spent the past twenty years travelling all over the world including Texas, Afghanistan and Iraq. He is a practical person and runs the operations of WC. Paula is a researcher herself and spends time in the field. The two children are aged about 10 and 8 and Paula is home schooling them. Right now they are staying in the Weavers Nest but plan to move to the White House as soon as the cabinets have been built and the water solar heater is installed. The new name for the White house is Xairu. See the bottom of this story for an explanation of the word Xairu.
Wednesday morning Ron & I woke up early and packed some snacks in to the backpack. Peanut butter sandwiches, apples, bananas and crunchies. I like to be able to boost my sugar and energy level at fairly frequent intervals or else I find I become tired quickly. It looked like it would be cool and overcast today. We walked south along the South Ridge road with the Heron house on the right. We found the first tortoise that I have seen on WC. I phoned Jenny to find out if they had seen any Tortoises and she confirmed that they had found one and released it near to the Talari house. This tortoise must have walked all the way up the hill as, when I described the tortoise, she said that it sounded just like the one they had released.
Ron & I continued along the ridge road until we were almost at “Kallie’s” dairy farm. We then turned left following what looked like the spoor of two spooked buck. We entered Plattekloof at the end of the stream and then took a leisurely walk up the kloof. We stopped for a snack and continued up stream. I explained to Ron that we would be looking for a kloof coming into Plattekloof from the left.
After about 3 hours Ron spotted the inlet from what I believed to be the Peterkloof. I marked the entrance with bright orange tape. This section was very overgrown; however Ron used his machete to clear the entrance to the kloof. The Peterkloof starts off fairly narrow with lots of overgrowth but is easy to negotiate. We reached the waterfall where the kloof veers to the right. We had left a strapping here before and this made it easy for Ron & I climb up and above the falls.
A huge tree has fallen down and blocked off the stream. This fallen tree has taken a number of other trees and branches with it in its fall and this made climbing upstream quite tricky. As we reached the next waterfall I discovered a Baboon skeleton. I took out a plastic packet and gathered up as many of the bones that I could find. Bryce is in charge of the Bone collection and I thought that he could make use of this to add to his display.
Ron and I decided that the next waterfall was too tough to try to climb and headed off to the left. We rounded the boulders and hiked over and above the stream. At the top we were able to see into the kloof but not down to the top of the falls as the growth was too dense. We continued up until we came to a fence. At this stage we were now quite clear as to the source of the Peterkloof and decided to walk back to the Fynbos Road.
The Protea growth was thick and tall and we had difficulty in pushing our way through the brush and it was only by looking ahead to the Hammerkop that we were able to find our direction. However as we emerged from the really thick stuff we realised we had been looking at the wrong peak and had to head off to the west of the way that we had been heading. From here the route was not as difficult and we finally reached the Fynbos road.
Both of us were exhausted and the thought of a cup of tea and a sit down was quite inviting. Back at Talari we relaxed for an hour and then realised that the afternoon had plenty of daylight left so decided to walk up the Wilderkranz Kloof. This afternoon we met the team of Builders; Jackson and his son. They were busy in the house working in the chimney as well as building a trench for the flow of water at the back of Talari. There were a number of Baboons running around the Oak Tree Meadow but we walked past them and they carried on with their business and did not disturb us at all.
We walked along the old aquaduct and then past the pipe that crosses Wilderkranz stream and down into the Kloof. The water level was particularly low and it was relatively easy to stay on the left hand side. It seemed like a long walk up to the first little falls but when we reached the pool Ron spotted the webbing that Stefan & I had tied to the top of the falls some time ago. What Stefan had done was to tie the strapping to a log that was wedged into the rocks but a heavy rainfall must have dislodged the log and the webbing was still tied to the log.
We untied the webbing and I swam across the pool with it so that I could try to tie it to aid hikers in climbing to the top of this waterfall. I climbed up quite easily and forced the webbing under a rock and was able to secure it. Unfortunately the webbing was too short to reach the pool at the bottom. Ron had also swum across and was using the webbing that was still fastened to the left hand side of the falls to help him up. The webbing must have frayed and snapped as he was hauling himself up and he splashed backwards into the pool. Fortunately he was not hurt.
This gave me the opportunity to use this section of webbing for lengthening the strapping that I had just secured. When we were finished the webbing lay in the middle of the water flow. I am sure that this will not last as this nylon webbing is not strong enough to survive the constant battering of water. On our way back we filled the water bladder that I carry in my backpack from the spring that flows into the Wilderkranz stream. This water is, in my opinion, probably the best drinking water that you can find anywhere on WC.
This afternoon we had enjoyed two stunning walks and were really exhausted. Jenny made us a supper of turkey and vegetables. I added some sausage that I planned to use as fillers for the next days sandwiches. Jenny went out for supper (to Keith & Paula).
Thursday morning, after a really good night’s rest, we were a little more relaxed and left the house at about 08.00am. We walked straight up the Fynbos road and up to Ena’s Falls.
Keith and his team of Freek and Aubrey passed us as they were in the process of making repairs to the Fynbos Road where the road is a thin type of soil that does not bind and as soon as there is a rain the whole road just washes away. We suggested humps in place of troughs and Ron advocated the use of logs which are in abundance below where the pine forest has been cut. Aubrey has recently moved to Heidelberg to be with his family. He has been working in Cape Town where he was a Code 14 Heavy Duty driver doing both long and short distances. He had been introduced to Wildcliff by Jackson.
At the top of Ena’s falls we walked down to the pools and there had a swim. It was interesting to see all the little creatures in the pools. A researcher, Zolt, had given us a talk on the smallest of small creatures that live in the rivers. Today we had remembered to charge phones and were able to take a few pictures. I tried to send to Barbara but did not seem to have too much success. I need reading glasses to see small stuff and am not much good with a phone except for phoning. Having a phone is an advantage in some respects but Ron found himself being interrupted a number of times by calls from business partners. After this most refreshing swim (it was going to be a hot day) we carried on up onto Ackers farm and over to the Karoo Lookout ridge. It was becoming really hot and there was little or no breeze. Ferns seem to have overgrown on this jeep track and this is to me a clear indication that this area is no longer being harvested as it was two years ago when I first walked this road.
From the Karoo Lookout we could see for many kilometres to the north of the Langkloof both East and West and across to the mountain range in the north. After a short snack and some photography, we retraced our steps back to the neck at Ena’s Falls. As soon as we crested this neck we could feel the cool breeze coming from the West. I had a plan to map a trail from the sign leading to Ena’s Falls Viewpoint to the pools below the falls. I had orange tape and led a pathway down to the pools where I again had a swim.
This is not a difficult path but it will be made a little safer by adding some strapping to the section where the hiker has to clamber down some rocks. From here we had the task of finding a trail down to the Klipspringer Pools (Bumslide Pools) below where the water pipe had burst. We were tired and not keen for more rock climbing so avoided the rock face of the broken pipe and headed downwards in an easterly direction.
It was here that we found the “field of King Protea”. This field is West Facing, has lots of water in a sloot. At this time of year (January) it seems that the King Protea are in full bloom. As we descended into the kloof we came across a number of Pine Trees which we either cut down using a lopper or the Machete or else, if the tree was too strong, we Ring Barked the tree. The foliage is thick and it became difficult to see where we were going with rocks and vines impeding our progress.
Down in the kloof we wallowed in the cool stream, enjoying the refreshing break before our ascent back to the Fynbos road. We had one of our toughest climbs of the day out of the kloof. We did not hike up at an angle but rather straight up and I think that this was just too much for us. We walked down the Fynbos road to where there is a pathway down to Rain Frog dam. We walked this track to the end of the pipe where Ron filled his water bottle. We tried to find the trail leading down to Rain Frog dam but, while we did not have success in finding the actual trail, we kind of bundu bashed and made our way to the dam.
As we walked, I wondered to myself if the sloot to the right of us would have any water as an alternative source for Rain Frog dam. When we finally reached home that afternoon at about 16.00 we were both ready for our tea and a couch. Jenny suggested watering the chestnut trees and other plants on the dam wall. I was able to persuade her that we should do this when the sun had settled a bit more. By time the watering of the trees and garden had to be done we had had time to recover and the sun was not as fierce as it had been earlier.
We found the trees that had to watered and then decided, as the level of the pond had dropped quite considerably, to fill the pond with the garden hose. We left the hose running all Thursday night and by Friday evening it had filled to its optimum level. At the Weavers Nest we found Abigail and reminded her of her duty to water the Keurboom and Yellow Wood trees. The hose was just long enough to water the saplings around the house but the Gladioli that are now planted in the newly painted water trough need to be watered by bucket.
Jenny made us a supper of Roast Chicken and vegetables this was finished off with a desert of Christmas Pudding and Ice Cream. Simply delicious! Hanna (a GIS Mapping researcher) joined us for supper. Hanna is a Texan who will be at WC for another 6 months and then will be marrying her fiancé who is in the US army. I could not last out for much longer and excused myself for a good night’s rest.
Ron did not sleep well as he was suffering from a bit of heat exhaustion and dehydration. Stefan was on his way from Cape Town that afternoon and had agreed to pick up two volunteers; Diego from the Basque region of Spain and Elodie from France. http://wildcliff.org/research They had left CT airport at about 19.30 and only arrived at WC after 23.00. I was long fast asleep and did not hear Stefan come in.
Jenny & I had decided to leave for George at about 07.00am. I had to catch a flight to Johannesburg for the meeting regarding retrenchment of staff. We passed Albertina where I made my compulsory stop for Gekervde Biltong. Jenny dropped me off at the airport where I obtained my ticket and sat down for a meal at Dulce’s. I ordered a coffee and a Chicken Curry Tremezinne. This is a meal in a pita bread and quite delicious. Ally often orders this but always brings half of the meal home for a second helping later in the day. I was unable to finish my meal but did not have place for a take away box.
The flying time from George to Johannesburg is 1hour 40minutes. Dawn had given me a book voucher for my birthday and I had one of the books that I had bought with me. It was a book of short thriller stories and by the end of the flight I had slept and read the time away.
John Baatjies (also 25 years service with Morkels) collected me at the airport and we took a route through the city centre. I have not been through Johannesburg city for many years and could still recognise many places and street names from the time when we lived in Johannesburg and I worked in the family business at Gaynors which was a division of Giddy’s.
I was not a good student and when I failed my final year (B.Com) at Wits University, I started a part time job at Gaynors with the intention to study part time. I only completed my degree many years later. I first of all worked in Doornfontein where the warehousing and administration took place. Then later, as the Johannesburg branch of the business was shut down, I worked as a manager of the only remaining shop in Bree street.
This was a busy time of life as I would sell an appliance, load it up in the El Camino truck and whisk it off to the customer’s home. We also sold a variety of appliance spares. It was quite a good business but not what I saw as my future and so when the opportunity arose I accepted a position as accountant in Port Elizabeth where the head office of Giddy’s was located. Eventually; Gaynors, Bree Street, was sold to Richard Beukes who was the group accountant of Giddy’s in Port Elizabeth.
Shortly after moving to PE I was fortunate enough to meet Barbara. I and a few friends were living in a Communal house and Barbara needed a room. From this our romance blossomed and when I was called up to National Service for three months at the Namibian Border we decided to marry before I was killed in action. Barbara stayed at home with her parents until I returned.
We lived in a flat in Kabega for the first while, Nicci and then Jacqui came along and we decided to move to the beach where we found a flat in Cathcart road (Cathcart Gardens). We bought this two bedroom flat for R15 000. I had bought a motor Bike and used this to commute. Michael was born and when the opportunity came to move into the family home in Mill Park Road, we snapped it up. At about this time I left the family business of Giddy’s. I had spent the last number of years as a salesman in the Newton Park shop and was ready for something new.
My parents; Ena and Allan moved from their flat in Killarney, Johannesburg, to a home that they built next to the Anglican Church in Plettenberg Bay. My father continued with his interest in Giddy’s which was at that time being run by his partner and army buddy, Rocky Ridgeway. In the Mid ‘80’s the business was sold to Rusfurn and then later Rusfurn was taken over by the JD Group.
Barbara left SA Eagle insurance where she had been a secretary and found a new job as a PA at Blasting and Excavating where she worked for Basil Bartlet until she resigned in the late 1990’s. We have now lived in Mill Park for over 25 years. After leaving Giddy’s I spent a year as a “travelling salesman selling chemical products and then spent another year as a Regional Credit manager at Lewis Furnishers.
I had put an application in with Morkels and when they called me for a second interview I was delighted and accepted their offer without hesitation. I managed the Main Street shop for three years, the North End shop for a further three years and then moved to a regional position. I have now worked in a variety of regional positions at Morkels for 25 years.
Morkels has been through a management buy out from Federale Volksbeleggings, a take over by Profurn and then a take over by JDG. Right now I am in the process of moving from the Morkels brand to the JDG Financial services division and if all works out I will receive my first promotion in nearly 20 years. Barbara and I had decided to stay in PE rather than accept transfers and promotions.
Back to my meeting in Johannesburg: John drove me out to Hillfox in the West Rand, where the JDG training and meetings facilities are housed. We were handed the retrenchment letters that we had to take back with us on Monday and then Sue Lewis (HR Executive) explained how we were to handle the communication. After the meeting John drove me back to OR Tambo airport where I met up with Ian and we were able to sit together for the return flight home.
This kind of trip is exhausting to me and I had a bit of a dull headache. Jenny met us at the airport and we drove back to WC together. Jenny had spent a good day shopping in the George Mall where she had purchased a number of research books and some of the essentials for WC. Jenny had also bought us a supper of Sushi for the road. I think that Jenny enjoys spoiling “her men” with delights like this.
Stefan and Ron had made us a delicious Pootjie on the braai. It was late and while we had supper Stefan and Ron related their day’s activities. Ron had started off the day not been feeling that good but by about 09.00 had recovered enough to walk up the fynbos road.
Stefan wanted to explore the ridge which he and I had seen from the West side of the Wilderkranz Kloof. They walked up the Fynbos road and then down and along the ridge towards the Doghead Rock. They tell me that they marked the trail well and that Stefan had made liberal use of the Loppers. They finally reached the Wilderkranz stream and walked and swam down the valley until they reached what is now called Bryce Canyon. Here they walked up the hill and back to Fynbos road. I make this sound quick and easy but the day’s activity took them to 19.00pm. I think that this hiking trail should be called Stefan’s Loop. This had been a 10hour hike for them. Nevertheless they had waited up until we arrived back from our travels.
Saturday Morning. This would be our last day of the short holiday. We warmed up some of the Pootjie for our breakfast. I wanted to get going as soon as possible but Ian wanted to set out a planned route. We decided to find out if there was any water in the sloot that lies to the West of Rain Frog Dam. Ian then wanted to see the Wilderkranz Kloof at about the area where the first Little Falls were located from above on the East side of the kloof. Finally Ian wanted to find the water pipe on Fynbos Road where Freek and Aubrey were repairing a section of the road.
We set off at about 8 or 9am and walked up through the wattles to Rain Frog dam and over the dam wall to where we found these two sloots that would lead down to the Oak Tree Meadow. Both of them were dry and therefore this would not be an alternate source of water for the houses of WC. We then headed uphill through where Tom Ambrose’ teams had cut the pines and wattle and then over to the East of the Wilderkranz valley. As we walked this route we found a trap which we assumed to be a Leopard trap.
We continued down until we found what we thought to be a lookout point. From here we could see the top of Sunshine Falls. This is the second falls after the Little Falls as you work your way up from Oak Tree meadow. We could not see into the kloof itself as it is simply too dense with trees and foliage. We carried on up and found another lookout point. From this vantage point it appears that with some assistance from webbing we may be able to climb down into the kloof. Ian spotted a few Wattles below us. Ron immediately headed down into this valley and begun chopping the first of three trees down. I took an easy little tree and Stefan, being the youngest of us, was given the task of the biggest tree. Ron slung some of the webbing around a stump and this aided Stefan in his trip down and back up again. We should carry some Garlon poison with us to make these efforts of ours a permanent solution.
From here we walked up to the Fynbos road, found the pipe on the road and settled down to a snack. While we relaxed on the road we saw Diego and Elodie walking up towards us. We all greeted and introduced ourselves and then walked up to Ena’s Falls. At Ena’s Falls we made our way down to the Burst Pipe rocks and then down through this kloof to the bottom Klipspringer pools. Ian, Stefan & I had a swim. The weather was not that warm and the water quite brisk. Still a lovely swim.
Ron & Stefan had looped a section of webbing for the climb up. This certainly made this climb a lot easier and the researchers will have no trouble reaching these otherwise tough sections of the valley. By putting the webbing in place we also are able to save the grasses as we tend to pull on grasses to help us up the steep hills. Shortly after this Stefan and Ron headed down the fynbos road to Talari, following Diego and Elodie.
Hennie, the water pipe man from the Heidelberg coop arrived with Keith and surveyed the pipes to see how best the broken pipe could be mended. I also showed Hennie where there were other sections of broken and leaking pipes up above Ena’s falls. We located the source of the water where the pipe starts as well as the valve where the water can be turned off altogether. It is not advisable to turn the valve off completely as this could result in the PVC pipe collapsing and being destroyed in the process. The low water level means that only 1/3rd of the inlet pipe is being fed. Perhaps we should consider building a small weir here,
There was a brisk wind coming up the valley from the south west and Ian was able to find a sheltered spot behind a couple of huge boulders. He plans to ask one of the contractors if they will be able to build a small stone hut for overnight hikers. This will be a two man hut with the very minimum basics. It will have to survive storms, wind, fire and baboons. Hennie’s team fitted a new escape valve just above the broken pipe and he also fitted a tap just below where Ian is considering the stone hut.
Ian was due to give a presentation on Biodiversity and his guests were already there and waiting. The next day was Ian’s birthday and he had invited Bob & Wilma plus all the volunteers for a braai. Ian and I walked down at a brisk pace. We reached Talari at about 17.30 and after a shower and a cup of tea I was beginning to feel human again. This had been a long day’s hiking of 8 or 9 hours.
Jenny had set up a presentation area in the lounge which I almost destroyed when I walked past carrying my backpack in front of me and did not take enough care when walking over the wires. I tripped, the projector crashed down but fortunately did not break. Ian then gave us a very interesting presentation on the subject of Biodiversity and why it is of importance to study the biodiversity at both Cloudbridge and at Wildcliff and to monitor the changes.
Bob and I did the Braaiing while Jenny prepared vegetables. Paula had made a most delicious bread. I would have been happy to have this alone but all the food was so inviting that I could not resist sampling a bit of everything. We had a desert of mixed Melk Tert and Christmas pudding. While my birthday had been a few weeks earlier I was spoilt with gifts from both Jenny (a rechargeable torch) and from Paula a (home made braai sauce).
This was my 5th night away from home and I was looking forward to getting back to my family. There was such a festive and active conversation going on that after two attempts to interrupt and bid everyone a good night I finally went off to bed. I set the alarm for 04.00am and awoke just before that on Sunday Morning. Ron also woke up and we decided to pack and go. We were on the road at about 04.30 and made our first stop in Plett at the Shell garage where we bought a coffee and toasted sandwich. The road was relatively empty and we were back home before 10.00am. This is probably the quickest time that I have driven between WC and PE.
18TH January is Ian Giddy (079 538 2444) and Ian Spence (044 5333 1657) Birthday. I spoke to Patrick who was at the Hogsback for a three day conference. He told me of how he driven from Durban and taken the road from Kokstad to Matatielle to Queenstown and that this was a really easy tar road with no traffic and this avoided the congestion of places like Mthatha and Butterworth. I will probably take this route when we go to Durban for Nippers Nationals in April.
I phoned Ian Spence to wish him a happy 93rd birthday. While he had suffered a bit of a health setback recently, on his birthday he had a “drinks party” and was able to swim in the pool. Ian Giddy had also had recent health problems. He had discovered a cancer while being examined for a Kidney stone. Doctors have been able to remove the cancer and Ian is presently going for blood tests which should have been forwarded to his doctor in NY but this process seems to have been less then successful. However Ian seems to be very strong. He is back working as hard as ever at the operations of the two reserves, the consulting work that he does and was hugely active as we walked and climbed and swam in some difficult trails at WC this weekend.
Stefan had left WC at about 05.30. He travelled the on the N2 to about 10kays before Swellendam where he took a left turn to Barrydale. This may have been a bit of a mistake as the route was about 40kays longer then going through Swellendam and Ashton. Stefan reports it to be a stunning pass with deep cliffs and ridges. This road is tarred all the way to the N1. He saw little or no traffic and the drive took him about 30 minutes longer than normal.
It was good to be home. As soon as I had unpacked, I dressed for Nippers. Barbara, Ally & I drove down to Summerstrand. A strong west wind was blowing and there were some ultra huge swells that ended up crashing onto the shallows of the beach. The sand had begun to build up and there were not as many rocks as we have experienced over the past number of weeks.
After a short warm up run we took the U10’s through their paces in the water. First a swim and I was pleasantly surprised to see how many of the u10’s made it through the dumpers and swam out to where the coaches were waiting. We then put them on Body Boards and again a number of these youngsters braved the waves and paddled out to the coaches.
I have started to find a sense of team spirit developing in the U10’s. We now have more than a team of just one u10 girl. At the Plett carnival Marion was the only girl in the U10 Nippers team. And the boys are becoming more confident as they become used to the ocean. What really helps, at this level, is the increased number of parents who stay and contribute both in the water, on the beach and in other ways. We are very fortunate to have such a dedicated group.
The U10’s should be pleasantly surprised when they are at Kings Beach next week for the Carnival. The swell is not nearly as big and the waves are easier to negotiate. We ran though sprints and baton changing for team selection purposes. Lynne and I went through the criteria for the Nippers doing their first Level tests. We have a small group of u10’s going for a level test on Saturday and we should have over 20 X U10’s competing in the carnival next Sunday.
Xairu:
Dear Peter,
Thank you for visiting www.openafrica.org and posting your comment/request.
The information on the route, and thus the name can be found within the
route background information at the following link:
http://www.openafrica.org/route/xairu-blue-crane-route
But to answer your question directly I have copied the information, see
below:
"Xairu" (pronounced with the 'x' as a click sound made by flattening the
tongue on the roof of the mouth and then removing it) means "paradise" in
the old language of the San people who used to inhabit the area.
Please feel free to post any requests or comments on our site again. Thank
yoU!
Kind Regards
Jolene du Plessis
Open Africa
Tel: +27 21 683 9639
Fax: +27 21 683 8013
Cell: +27 72 015 9978
Email: jolene@openafrica.org
Website: www.openafrica.org
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
FUNDISA EDUCATIONAL SAVINGS ACCOUNT
Here is a really good way to save for the education of a CHOSEN child.
What you do is visit a branch of ABSA or Nedbank
Ask for an application form
You will need the ID or Birth Certificate of the chosen child.
Then save at R200 per month -= R2 400 per annum and as long as the child eventually uses the fund for education at a recognised tertiary education insitution such as a university then the fund earns a bonus of 25% = R600 pa.
The fund name is Fundisa.
There are a few conditions but this sounds like the best way to save for your child. And even if that particular child opts out of tertiary education the fund can be used to for another child and you will still have the benefit of this bonus.
What you do is visit a branch of ABSA or Nedbank
Ask for an application form
You will need the ID or Birth Certificate of the chosen child.
Then save at R200 per month -= R2 400 per annum and as long as the child eventually uses the fund for education at a recognised tertiary education insitution such as a university then the fund earns a bonus of 25% = R600 pa.
The fund name is Fundisa.
There are a few conditions but this sounds like the best way to save for your child. And even if that particular child opts out of tertiary education the fund can be used to for another child and you will still have the benefit of this bonus.
Monday, January 19, 2009
RUSKS RECIPE. ZOE GIDDY PASSED ON TO ENA GIDDY JANUARY 2009.
RUSK RECIPE January 2009.
This Recipe was originally passed to Ena Giddy by her sister in law; Zoe Giddy who is the wife of David Giddy. David is Allan Giddy’s younger Brother. David, Zoe and their children; Hugh, Jonathan and Allison all live in Australia. Ena has been making these rusks for many years and it is one of my real treats in the morning. I was worried that if I did not secure the recipe that it may be lost to our family. So on the way to Wildcliff on 12th January 2009 I stopped at Ena in Plett. Ron Pask was with me and we had a cup of tea and Ena gave me this recipe and a box of Rusks to take with me.
Step One
Flour Mixture
1 X Kilogram self Raising Flour
300g Bran Flakes
I X Cup Raisins
1 X Tea spoon Baking powder
2 X Tea Spoon Salt
Step Two
Melt 500Grams of Butter
Mix in two cups of sugar.
Step Three
Beat two eggs and 500 mil Buttermilk
Add to the Butter mix into the flour Mixture
Step Four
Bake at 180 degrees Centigrade for 45 minutes.
Cool and Cut into rusks
Step Five
Dry in oven until crisp: Be careful as you don’t want wet rusks nr do you want to burn them.
This Recipe was originally passed to Ena Giddy by her sister in law; Zoe Giddy who is the wife of David Giddy. David is Allan Giddy’s younger Brother. David, Zoe and their children; Hugh, Jonathan and Allison all live in Australia. Ena has been making these rusks for many years and it is one of my real treats in the morning. I was worried that if I did not secure the recipe that it may be lost to our family. So on the way to Wildcliff on 12th January 2009 I stopped at Ena in Plett. Ron Pask was with me and we had a cup of tea and Ena gave me this recipe and a box of Rusks to take with me.
Step One
Flour Mixture
1 X Kilogram self Raising Flour
300g Bran Flakes
I X Cup Raisins
1 X Tea spoon Baking powder
2 X Tea Spoon Salt
Step Two
Melt 500Grams of Butter
Mix in two cups of sugar.
Step Three
Beat two eggs and 500 mil Buttermilk
Add to the Butter mix into the flour Mixture
Step Four
Bake at 180 degrees Centigrade for 45 minutes.
Cool and Cut into rusks
Step Five
Dry in oven until crisp: Be careful as you don’t want wet rusks nr do you want to burn them.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
SUMMERSTRAND NIPPERS 2009.
We will run a Nippers Group on Tuesday 16th at Summerstrand 09.00am to 11.00am.
Marking of clothing: Please mark all clothing and kit. Every weekend we find stuff lying around on the beach or in the change rooms.
I have a T shirt that I found on the beach with J Zeelie name and I have a chafe shorts which I found on the beach last weekend.
Sunday: This was quite an experience for those who were there on Sunday.
The beach took on a new shape and with the extreme low tide we had to contend with rocks in places which made surfing quite dangerous.
In the both the U12 and the U10 group we had a few first timers who slotted in quite nicely.
The U14’s went out for a few long paddles on the Malibu boards and Clint sent them to the Pollock Rocks and back.
We did quite a bit of beach work and ended up with U10’s challenging the U14’s at Flags. Real fun!!
Level tests: If you are interested in taking part in Carnivals and in the East Cape Champs next year then you have to have qualified for the Level Test in your age group.
To qualify for a level test:
You need to swim a 400m in a pool either with a swim coach, a responsible adult or a Nippers Coach. Please phone me if you need help in this regard.
A copy of your Birth Certificate.
A competed indemnity form.
We need you to bring these documents to Nippers urgently if the Nipper is to compete in the next Carnival.
The carnival program for this season:
29th November: Plett results: see letter attached.
25th January --- Carnival hosted by Summerstrand.
7th March -- East Cape Champs hosted by Summerstrand.
3 April --- Nationals in Durban.
Letter from the Parade Hotel in Durban.
Hi Peter
Would you kindly chat with the club members and establish if anyone else is going to be booking at Parade Hotel.
We have only had 10 bookings and I will soon need to release the rooms to two other clubs who are on the waiting list.
Also kindly ensure that they email me at info@paradehotel.co.za with their exact requirements i.e. booking name, dates in and out and number in family/group.
Brenda Lee
Manager, Parade Hotel
Peter
Sunday 14th
082 550 3174
Please phone me if you need any more detail or information.
You can be proud that your children take part in a tough sport like Nippers!
Nippers builds character; muscle and fitness; and a healthy respect for the ocean and its everyday whims.
Today we had a good turnout of Nippers and coaches to enjoy a session on the beach.
We started off with a warm up, run and exercise session.
Then the U14’s decided to head out on Malibu’s again. Today was different as there were some HUGE swells and crashing shore breakers. And a few really brave U12’s elected to join the U14’s. Ally, Ali, Caitlyn, Christie, Daniel, Hampton and a few others joined the U14’s for a long paddle from Pollock towards Hobie, around Bird Rock and back.
This was further than many of the youngsters had ever been. Don’t think that they were not fearful to start off with. But they managed to overcome this nervous anticipation and completed the exercise. Then the U14’s once more took to their Malibu Boards and paddled off to the Pipe to join the surfers there.
The U10’s and U12’s did some Body Board work and some of them were Severely Dumped by those crashing shore breakers. Yet we saw no tears and they were soon back in the water with boards surfing and enjoying the sea. We also did a long run and some flags exercises.
This a good workout for a young body between about 8 to 14 years and an even better workout for us mom’s and dad’s who try to keep up with the Nippers. Thanks to both coaches and parents who brought children to Nippers today and to those who selflessly assist on the beach, Tuck Shop, admin and in other ways.
Sunday 28th: the cage will be open for anyone wanting to use craft or the facilities. This will be an unsupervised session. 11.00am.
Sunday 4th January: This will be another less formal session but there will be coaches and supervision. 11.00am to 13.00.
Thursday 8th January: we will have a meeting for the committee, coaches and other people wanting to assist in the organisation of the Summerstrand Carnival to be held on Sunday 25th Jan. The meeting will be at Peter’s house: 23 Mill Park Road: 18.30 Sharp.
Sunday 11th January will be the opening of the new year’s official Practice Sessions. 11.00am at Summerstrand.
Peter
082 550 3174
21.12.2008.
This evening we had a chat (committee meeting) about a whole range of Nippers Stuff.
Here is a brief summary:
Level Tests: Liesl and Juan will be contacting Nippers who are still to complete their level test.
Carnival 24 / 25 January 2009
Venue: Kings Beach
Proposal to hold the carnival over two days to be discussed with East Cape Office.
Once finalised: Program to be issued.
Beach Preparation: we will need a full team of parents to assist with setting up arena’s. Time & date depends on two or one day carnival.
Preferable to have two water arena’s. To decide.
Two Flags arena’s essential. Must have starters, catchers and scorers for each arena.
Try to find a Tent for the scorers (army type tent)
Tuckshop and Catering: outsource
Toilets: Kings beach public toilets. Toilet Paper.
Catering for officials: only outside the club volunteers and safety officers to be provided with a meal voucher.
Entry Fee: R10.00 per nipper. List to be provided on the day.
Safety Officers: refer to Rule 1.4.6: In Nipper Competition no water events may be held unless there are at least 10 safety Officers with rescue torpedo buoys in attendance. Kings beach to be requested to supply their Rubber Duck.
We will need a Security Guard if the event is over two days.
Officials: Brian, Dave, etc; Scorers: Rose, Charlene, Hannelie, Claire.
First Aid: refresh the kit.
Bins
Next meeting regarding the Summerstrand Carnival to be held at Clint & Claire on Thursday 15th at 18.30pm.
Other:
Clothing shop will be open Sunday 11.1.2009. All Nippers to be properly Kitted out with Black Speedo costumes, Chafe Vests, tight shorts if they chafe on their legs, Scull caps: this includes Micro Nippers.
We will also have Baggies, T shirts etc for sale.
Sunday 11th and Sunday 18th will be trails for the Carnival. NB at this carnival all Nippers with the required Level test will be included in the events. At East Cape and Nationals there are LIMITED entries allowed for certain events and teams will be selected on merit and ability and not on Participation.
Sponsorship DVD – Donald.
Calendar of Upcoming activities:
Sunday 11.1.2009: Trails and times for Carnival Team Selection. All Nippers wanting to acquire a Level test to talk to Liesl and Juan Nel: Must supply ID book and Swim confirmation plus sign and indemnity form.
Thursday 15th: Carnival Planning meeting at Clint’s house.
Sunday 18.1.2009: Trails and times for Carnival Team Selection
Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th: to confirm if the Carnival will be held over one or two days: Kings Beach. Program to follow.
Nippers Nationals and Accommodation: Coaches will be asking Nippers who will be taking part in the Durban Nationals Competition. Parents to advise children and Parents to arrange own accommodation.
Friday 13.2.2009: 100 club for all parents and Nippers: 6pm – 100 club cash draws as well as Lucky Dip Draws: Supper at R15.00 per person will be a Beef Pootjie concocted by our famous Naked Chef.
Sunday 15th February: Last day for Level Tests for East Cape Carnival.
Sunday 22nd February : Redhouse River Mile --- Summies to be there is force: Parents and Nippers alike. Last year Matthew won himself a Motor Bike!
Saturday 28th February: Cut off date for Nippers Level Test to take part in the Nippers Nationals in Durban.
Saturday 7th March: East Cape Nippers Competition hosted by Summerstrand
Friday 3rd April: Nippers Nationals in Durban.
Marking of clothing: Please mark all clothing and kit. Every weekend we find stuff lying around on the beach or in the change rooms.
I have a T shirt that I found on the beach with J Zeelie name and I have a chafe shorts which I found on the beach last weekend.
Sunday: This was quite an experience for those who were there on Sunday.
The beach took on a new shape and with the extreme low tide we had to contend with rocks in places which made surfing quite dangerous.
In the both the U12 and the U10 group we had a few first timers who slotted in quite nicely.
The U14’s went out for a few long paddles on the Malibu boards and Clint sent them to the Pollock Rocks and back.
We did quite a bit of beach work and ended up with U10’s challenging the U14’s at Flags. Real fun!!
Level tests: If you are interested in taking part in Carnivals and in the East Cape Champs next year then you have to have qualified for the Level Test in your age group.
To qualify for a level test:
You need to swim a 400m in a pool either with a swim coach, a responsible adult or a Nippers Coach. Please phone me if you need help in this regard.
A copy of your Birth Certificate.
A competed indemnity form.
We need you to bring these documents to Nippers urgently if the Nipper is to compete in the next Carnival.
The carnival program for this season:
29th November: Plett results: see letter attached.
25th January --- Carnival hosted by Summerstrand.
7th March -- East Cape Champs hosted by Summerstrand.
3 April --- Nationals in Durban.
Letter from the Parade Hotel in Durban.
Hi Peter
Would you kindly chat with the club members and establish if anyone else is going to be booking at Parade Hotel.
We have only had 10 bookings and I will soon need to release the rooms to two other clubs who are on the waiting list.
Also kindly ensure that they email me at info@paradehotel.co.za with their exact requirements i.e. booking name, dates in and out and number in family/group.
Brenda Lee
Manager, Parade Hotel
Peter
Sunday 14th
082 550 3174
Please phone me if you need any more detail or information.
You can be proud that your children take part in a tough sport like Nippers!
Nippers builds character; muscle and fitness; and a healthy respect for the ocean and its everyday whims.
Today we had a good turnout of Nippers and coaches to enjoy a session on the beach.
We started off with a warm up, run and exercise session.
Then the U14’s decided to head out on Malibu’s again. Today was different as there were some HUGE swells and crashing shore breakers. And a few really brave U12’s elected to join the U14’s. Ally, Ali, Caitlyn, Christie, Daniel, Hampton and a few others joined the U14’s for a long paddle from Pollock towards Hobie, around Bird Rock and back.
This was further than many of the youngsters had ever been. Don’t think that they were not fearful to start off with. But they managed to overcome this nervous anticipation and completed the exercise. Then the U14’s once more took to their Malibu Boards and paddled off to the Pipe to join the surfers there.
The U10’s and U12’s did some Body Board work and some of them were Severely Dumped by those crashing shore breakers. Yet we saw no tears and they were soon back in the water with boards surfing and enjoying the sea. We also did a long run and some flags exercises.
This a good workout for a young body between about 8 to 14 years and an even better workout for us mom’s and dad’s who try to keep up with the Nippers. Thanks to both coaches and parents who brought children to Nippers today and to those who selflessly assist on the beach, Tuck Shop, admin and in other ways.
Sunday 28th: the cage will be open for anyone wanting to use craft or the facilities. This will be an unsupervised session. 11.00am.
Sunday 4th January: This will be another less formal session but there will be coaches and supervision. 11.00am to 13.00.
Thursday 8th January: we will have a meeting for the committee, coaches and other people wanting to assist in the organisation of the Summerstrand Carnival to be held on Sunday 25th Jan. The meeting will be at Peter’s house: 23 Mill Park Road: 18.30 Sharp.
Sunday 11th January will be the opening of the new year’s official Practice Sessions. 11.00am at Summerstrand.
Peter
082 550 3174
21.12.2008.
This evening we had a chat (committee meeting) about a whole range of Nippers Stuff.
Here is a brief summary:
Level Tests: Liesl and Juan will be contacting Nippers who are still to complete their level test.
Carnival 24 / 25 January 2009
Venue: Kings Beach
Proposal to hold the carnival over two days to be discussed with East Cape Office.
Once finalised: Program to be issued.
Beach Preparation: we will need a full team of parents to assist with setting up arena’s. Time & date depends on two or one day carnival.
Preferable to have two water arena’s. To decide.
Two Flags arena’s essential. Must have starters, catchers and scorers for each arena.
Try to find a Tent for the scorers (army type tent)
Tuckshop and Catering: outsource
Toilets: Kings beach public toilets. Toilet Paper.
Catering for officials: only outside the club volunteers and safety officers to be provided with a meal voucher.
Entry Fee: R10.00 per nipper. List to be provided on the day.
Safety Officers: refer to Rule 1.4.6: In Nipper Competition no water events may be held unless there are at least 10 safety Officers with rescue torpedo buoys in attendance. Kings beach to be requested to supply their Rubber Duck.
We will need a Security Guard if the event is over two days.
Officials: Brian, Dave, etc; Scorers: Rose, Charlene, Hannelie, Claire.
First Aid: refresh the kit.
Bins
Next meeting regarding the Summerstrand Carnival to be held at Clint & Claire on Thursday 15th at 18.30pm.
Other:
Clothing shop will be open Sunday 11.1.2009. All Nippers to be properly Kitted out with Black Speedo costumes, Chafe Vests, tight shorts if they chafe on their legs, Scull caps: this includes Micro Nippers.
We will also have Baggies, T shirts etc for sale.
Sunday 11th and Sunday 18th will be trails for the Carnival. NB at this carnival all Nippers with the required Level test will be included in the events. At East Cape and Nationals there are LIMITED entries allowed for certain events and teams will be selected on merit and ability and not on Participation.
Sponsorship DVD – Donald.
Calendar of Upcoming activities:
Sunday 11.1.2009: Trails and times for Carnival Team Selection. All Nippers wanting to acquire a Level test to talk to Liesl and Juan Nel: Must supply ID book and Swim confirmation plus sign and indemnity form.
Thursday 15th: Carnival Planning meeting at Clint’s house.
Sunday 18.1.2009: Trails and times for Carnival Team Selection
Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th: to confirm if the Carnival will be held over one or two days: Kings Beach. Program to follow.
Nippers Nationals and Accommodation: Coaches will be asking Nippers who will be taking part in the Durban Nationals Competition. Parents to advise children and Parents to arrange own accommodation.
Friday 13.2.2009: 100 club for all parents and Nippers: 6pm – 100 club cash draws as well as Lucky Dip Draws: Supper at R15.00 per person will be a Beef Pootjie concocted by our famous Naked Chef.
Sunday 15th February: Last day for Level Tests for East Cape Carnival.
Sunday 22nd February : Redhouse River Mile --- Summies to be there is force: Parents and Nippers alike. Last year Matthew won himself a Motor Bike!
Saturday 28th February: Cut off date for Nippers Level Test to take part in the Nippers Nationals in Durban.
Saturday 7th March: East Cape Nippers Competition hosted by Summerstrand
Friday 3rd April: Nippers Nationals in Durban.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
PATRICK & MARIANNE WEDDING PARTY DECEMBER 2008.
PATRICK & MARIANNE’S WEDDING PARTY
WELLINGTON
SATURDAY 27 DECEMBER 2008.
Early in 2008, Patrick Giddy & Marianne Camerer decided to become a married couple. The wedding ceremony took place in February 2008. Marianne asked her parents for a wedding party to take place at a time when more of her family and friends could celebrate the occasion with her.
Barbara could not go to the wedding party as Cathy & Saul were at our home as well as Nicci and her whole family. So when Patrick asked me to go to the party in Cape Town I asked Richard Kumm (Dawn is Barbara’s sister and Richard is Dawn’s husband) if he would be prepared to drive down with me. Once he had accepted and I had approval from Marianne we made plans to drive down to Cape Town on Boxing Day 26.12.2008.
Richard and Dawn had recently acquired their Canadian Permanent Visa and Dawn asked if she could use the opportunity to drive to CT with us as she would go to say good bye to her family and friends in CT at the same time. Richard and Dawn have two daughters who both live in Calgary. Calgary has oil and for this and other reasons, has been a growth economy for a number of years.
Raylene has been in Calgary for something like 15 years with her husband Steve. Tracey and Mark plus two children; Asher & Kayle moved to Calgary from East London three or four years ago. They have a country home where Dawn and Richard share a basement flat that has its own entrance and view across the valley. Dawn tells me that she has plans to become involved in community activities now that she has residence. There is a tiny village near to their home called Priddis. Richard has become part of a Ham Radio group.
Ian’s two daughters; Julia and Laura arrived in SA on Friday 19th and I collected them from the airport that evening. Julia is in the final stages of her Geology studies at Michigan University while Laura completed high school this year with excellent academic records and is now in her first year at Michigan. Please note that Michigan is not pronounced with a T as Mitchigan. It is pronounced as Mishigan. They stayed for a few days with our son Michael who lives in Target Kloof (River Road).
Sunday evening we attended a carols by candlelight service at Clarendon Park School. This was the second year that our church has arranged this evening and it was a huge success. There was a great vibe on the field before the service with Mike Perks providing games. Most of us had a small picnic or bought some boerewors rolls. Both children and adults did quite a bit of socializing. There were 19 in our group: Barbara, Peter, Dawn, Cathy and Saul, Nicci, Stefan, Christian, Aaron & Zara, Ally and friend Ali, and Julia and Laura; Michael, Lene, Jessica, Joshua and Daniel. Our only missing family is Jacqui’s. Jacqui, Michael, Emily and Anabelle are still in London. Jacqui arrives in PE on 1st January 2009.
Then on Monday 22nd I drove J & L to Plett where Patrick and Marianne had been staying for a few days. Ian and Jenny met us there. Ian had stayed the previous night at their house in Springer Baai near to Mossel Baai. They had done some shopping for Wildcliff in George and we loaded J & L’s stuff in the back of the Toyota.
I had a quick lunch after saying my Hello’s to; Ena, Ian & Alice Spence and Alice’s brother Steeg and then headed back to PE. There was a strong tail wind and I flew home in quick time. The road works had been opened and suspended for the holiday period. Unfortunately the opposite applied to Ian and his family as they had to drive into the teeth of the West wind with a fully loaded bakkie. It was a bit of a nightmare of a drive for them.
That week seemed to fly as we were busy at home with family, busy at work and I tried to stay as fit as possible with jogging and swimming in the mornings at Hobie beach with Adrienne and Elmarie. Adrienne & I have been running partners for as many as 25 years. One of her daughters is Jenny Wilson who represents SA in Hockey at the Olympics. Adrienne herself is an international Dive judge and was in Bejing together with Jenny. Elmarie I have met more recently and she is the wife of Peter who is a good friend of Ron who has been a family friend of ours for over 25 years. Ron is currently visiting his son Craig in the UK. On the morning of 24th we did a short run through the Golf Course and ended up at the cars at Grey with a mug of Champagne that Adrienne supplied. One little sip at 06.00am and I felt the “warmth” in my tummy.
All this time Barbara had been trying to keep her family entertained and active while being busy with her traditional presents purchasing and wrapping. Barbara puts huge effort into this activity and at the end of it we had a Christmas tree with a mountain of presents under the tree. Our children’s family’s also placed their gifts under the tree and it was a wonderful time for the younger children to enjoy on Christmas day.
Christmas morning saw a beautiful sunrise and stockings being opened. I collected Sydney, the car guard, from Jerusalem Ministries to guard our house while we were in church. Unfortunately Michael was late for the service so we were not able to all sit together as a family.
The rest of Christmas day was spent in doing the present giving thing. There were piles of papers and boxes all over the place as wrapping was torn off the gifts and excited children examined their prize and then searched for the next one. Ally was quite conservative and took her time in opening the gifts. Each child had a huge red bag or stocking with the smaller gifts. I was given two shirts and a pair of shorts, a gift pack of toiletries, socks and a hanging sign for the front of the house. We had a good relaxed morning and afternoon which included a couple of naps on the couch. I washed and cleaned the car in preparation for the next day’s drive.
The following morning was Boxing Day and I collected Richard and Dawn at their home at about 05.00am. We had a reasonably easy drive to Wildcliff with a stop at Wilderness for a sandwich and then at Albertina where we stocked up at the Gekerfde Biltong shop and Richard bought Dawn a Magnetic Bracelet. This Biltong shop we discovered a few years ago and has become a compulsory stop each time we drive this road.
As we drive to WC I receive a phone call from Patrick asking me to “say a few words”. ‘About what?’ I ask. Patrick in his normal vague way tells me that I should talk about myself. While I know that I am an expert on this subject, I decide to talk about family instead.
We refueled in Heidleberg and stocked up on a few provisions at the Spar. As we arrived at Wildcliff we met up with Keith and his family. Keith has taken on the job of manager of WC for a year. He is ex US Air force and has traveled the world for his work. Now at the age of Mid Forties he has been able to take an early retirement and has committed to WC for a year. He has a wife Paula and two children; Abigail (10) and Bryce (6). They have been fixing up the White House and this is now a completely livable home. They are in the process of finishing off the fittings and providing some furnishings. They are presently staying in the Weaver’s Nest but should be able to move into the WH shortly.
Ian tells me that the Aloe that I planted on the Island of the Pond has survived. ‘Let me see’: thinks I. I take a swim in the pond. The top layer of water is warm like a bath but just below the surface the water is quite brisk. And yes, the Aloe is healthy and growing well. Jenny made up a good lunch of salads. Ian suggests that we take a walk up the Fynbos Road. I was stiff from the drive full from eating and happy for some exercise. As we were about to leave, Bryce calls me over to look at a Puff Adder that he had found on their front doorstep of the WH. It was a healthy looking animal and completely relaxed. Keith told us that he saw it move off later.
We hiked up the road for a bit before Paula caught us up with the Bushpig and we drove the rest of the way to the end of the old Wattle forest area. Where the Wattle has been felled, a forest of new saplings are emerging and will have to be sprayed soon. From here we walked up to Ena’s Falls. As we go up Fynbos Road we again see the impact that the clearing of both the pine and the wattle is already making to the reserve.
Laura had been up to Laura’s Peak before and was keen to show us the view from the top. The wind was quite chilly and this again reminded me of my own rule: never walk without a backpack and basics. Ian had some tape and we were able to mark a trail leading up to the Black Rhino Rock (or Dinosaur rock). And then up to Laura’s Peak. It is a short walk but worth the effort as from here you get a good view of the Hidden Valley and down to the Talari Valley.
Bryce is a bright youngster pointing out the Dassie Midden and the various types of Lichen. I have to ease my way down from rock to rock. Bryce simply jumps where my knees would not stand a chance. He feels the chill in the air so lies down on a warm rock out of the wind. On our way down, back to the bakkie, he tripped and fell. He cut his knee but this did not phase him as he was soon back on his feet sprinting downhill. The next time we saw him was at the driver’s seat of the Bushpig.
Jenny again made us a delicious meal of Turkey and salads. I was ambitious and tried to read in bed, but after five minutes my eyes were closed and the book was on my lap unread. The next time that I was conscious was at about 05.30am when I woke up to join Keith for a run. Keith and I jogged down to the stream and then walk/jogged up to the main gate. Here we turned left and jogged down to the quarry where there was a truck parked. Keith says that this truck has been here for months. I had a look and saw that the keys were still in the ignition. I am pretty sure that the truck is not in running order.
We saw two Heron on the field across from us and startled a buck in the bush near to the road. We turned and headed home and then just as we were approaching the WC gate at the weir, Keith pointed out two Reebuck in the road ahead. We also saw a good number of baboon in the oak tree meadow that morning.
After the run I had my shower and a bite to eat. Including this really great Smoothie that Jenny has made from Raspberry, Banana, Yogurt, ice cream and ice cubes. I check the TV for a cricket score and see that the Australians are in the process of giving us a hiding. They scored 394 in their first innings and, at the end of day two, we are at about 150 for 6. I turn off the TV in disgust. I see myself lazing the rest of the day away until we were to leave at about noon when Jill and family were due to arrive. Not so! Ian had other plans for me: Dig a hole for the Yellow Wood tree next to the pond.
I had made some pancakes and burnt a finger on the pan so was a little sensitive to wielding a pick. No Mercy: said Ian. Dig! So we dug a hole for this tree and finally with great difficulty had the tree secure in position. Off I go to wash and make a cup of tea which I intend to enjoy with Richard who is standing on the stoep watching and enjoying my labours.
Not so for the second time. There is a second hole to dig: this time for the creeper in front of the stoep. We hit rock. No trouble says Ian: move the hole to another place. Paula invites Ian to look at Baboon Poo under microscope. An excited Ian leaves me to dig the hole. So now we are on to the third hole of the day. I know that if I did this on a regular basis I could get fit for digging holes but, despite being in the shade, I am sweating and tired. Finally we have the creeper in place and I am able to pack the car and ready to leave. ‘But first my tea’; thinks I.
Not so for the third time! ‘Are you ready to leave?’ asks Ian. I look at him and with fear in my heart, admit that I am. Water the garden! he orders. So still no tea and no feet up on the bench. Eventually I hide myself in a corner, pour some tea and sit down to relax. Jill arrives and we drive off. We had decided to drive to CT via the Gysmans Hoek pass road but as the Bushpig had no petrol we had to turn around and go via Heidleberg. We stop off at the Wimpy for lunch. It was chock-a-block. We order take-away. They mess up the order but we have to leave and head off for CT.
Richard is not feeling that good. Julia is in the car with us. We drive on to Swellendam and phone Jenny to drive straight through where we plan to turn right to Ashton and Robertson. But somehow I mess up the instructions. After a bit of back and forth including chasing another Toyota which stops after we told Jenny to stop we finally drive off towards the N1 where we plan to off load Julia so that she can drive the last bit with Ian to Wellington. Really funny as we drive ahead then wait for Ian a few times. Each time he drives past us and we catch him up and hoot and wave as we pass him. I don’t think he saw us once! We manage to take time to stop off at the Spanspek Plek and buy a few Sweet Melons.
Finally Julia gets into the car with Ian and we drive through to drop Dawn off with her cousin Sue who lives near to Stefan & Nicci. Richard and I have a quick shower (cold for Richard) and put on our smart clothes. We follow Marianne’s (Lala) instructions & arrive at the wedding party which is being held at Marianne’s family home at Welgegund www.welgegund.co.za in Wellington at 18.30 exactly.
Lala’s Parents: Alex and Sheila Camerer live on a wine and olive farm near to Wellington. It is a wonderful home with a lawn where we are greeted with Champagne and snacks. Richard and I are introduced to family members. I almost make the mistake of calling Lala’s sister (Lissy) Marianne but realize just in time that this is a sister. A twin sister I am told later. I am able to sit down with an old friend of Patrick and of Mike Dean; (Margie) and her husband (Ian) plus two children Megan and Rosa. Megan & I find out that we share a birthday. Mine is just 38 years ahead of hers.
While sitting and chatting; a musical trio of a violinist, a flute player and a cello player serenade us with delightful music. Throughout the evening this trio plays in and around the guests. They accompany the background music when it is time to dance and they walk around tables making the evening even more romantic.
I see Shauna. She looks terrific. I am introduced to her husband Trevor and girls: Josie (10) and elder sister and younger brother (Names?). I am really sorry that I did not persuade Ally to come along as Ally loves to meet family. Shauna has a wonderful family and we are able to chat about Lloyd and Judy who I am delighted to hear still live at Little Falls Mooi River. I tell Barbara about this and we determine to try to visit them when we are in KZN for Nippers later in 2009.
Ena, Alice and Steeg arrive. They look good and dressed for the occasion. I am sorry to see that Ian Spence could not make it as he was not feeling his best. Ian, Jenny, Julia and Laura are there and look very smart. The two girls seem to be enjoying being in South Africa and being part of our activities. I love having them around as both of them are mature, intelligent and active young people. Add to that their good looks!
After a period of meeting people and chatting on the lawn we move to the dining area which is a covered stoep area. There is a very long table where Patrick and Marianne sit plus three smaller tables. I am fortunate enough to be on one of the small tables seated with some young people. On my left is Julia (a cousin to Lala) who is studying at Oxford University. I meet Shamus, Julia’s boyfriend. I like Julia: she tells me I look younger than my younger brother! She also tells me that she has rediscovered Christ and now attends the evening services at a vibrant Anglican church in Oxford.
I also sit next to Lissy. Lissy is married to an Ian. I meet him later that evening. And I see some children but lose track of who belongs to whom. The Minister says a short speech and then says the Grace. He does so in Latin, reminding me of my school days. The Grace ends something like Payasim Christim Dominum Nostrum: Amen. We learn that this invites us to the Heavenly Banquet. Later that evening I meet his wife Cecelia. We are served a delicious pastry with tomato mush and then there is a buffet of salmon plus a variety of salad. This is a real treat. I have heard that there is pudding so I avoid seconds.
Meanwhile Sheila makes a speech and tells us a bit about her experience of the couple. I think that the family has reservations about Patrick marrying their lovely daughter. But ultimately have no choice despite the fact that he does funny things like keeping his cap on his head during breakfast. As long as Lala sees the humourous side of Patrick they will be fine. Sheila loves Thomas and that cannot be put aside. Alex seems to be easy going. I have not met the Grandmother but I hear that she is still questioning this strange relationship. Lissy appears happy that Lala is happy. Everyone does a great deal of hugging.
Lala takes us through a very interesting chronological history of her coupling up with Patrick. (I have asked her for her notes). Sarah, a family friend makes an impromptu speech. And I am asked to say my bit as well. I have two points that I have decided to make: firstly it is really good to see Patrick so happy. And Secondly I try to introduce the people who originate in some way from ‘Patrick’s side’. Our Mother: Ena, her sister in Law & best friend: Alice and Alice’s brother Steeg from Sweden. Then there is Shauna, Trevor and their children. Our elder brother Ian, his children Julia and Laura and his wife Jenny. Patrick’s friend Margie and her family. Richard, who kept me company on my drive from PE.
Lissy orders all the men to stand and move four places in a clockwise direction. This applies to the main table only and everyone gets a chance to meet some new people. Then Pudding is served. It is a kind of Baked Alaska with Meringue and ice cream. Yummy! I have some of this while sitting at Richard’s table. Then, while the dancing is going on, I help myself to seconds. To avoid looking like the glutton that I am, I move to another table for this helping.
I encounter Rebecca (mother of Julia) and daughter Rebecca. Alex joins us and announces that we are sitting over the drain. We decide to move outside to the lawn for coffee. Julia and I dance. This has been quite an outing for us. The evening has been quite enchanting. The weather played its part as it was a clear, starry sky with little or no dew. Lissy and her team have run the logistics of the evening with precision. The meal was both healthy and tasty.
Both Richard & I have met a number of people who seem to fit into Marianne’s family in some way. Richard had a lady at his table who seems to think that he was a Hit Man and wanted him to take care of some problem people. Alex and Sheila are being shipped out to Bulgaria for a four year period to set up a South African Embassy there. I will have to look up on the map to find Bulgaria. Sheila, who is a lawyer, works in the Government as a Politician. Alex tells us that he will have to commute back to RSA to see to his farming activities. His son, who I did not meet, will be taking care of some of the business aspects as well. They are having to learn Bulgarian which is similar to Russian with a funny alphabet.
I have been a really good boy and only had my one glass of wine that I used for toasting and am quite fit for the hour drive home when Richard and I decide that the witching hour is upon us. We greet as many people as we can and head off back to Stellenberg where we flop into bed for a 5 hour sleep. Nicci & Stefan Steenkamp operate their Photographic business from their home in Stellenberg. www.zara-zoo.com
Nicci and Stefan have recently launched a wedding planner called the little pink book. The launch in Cape Town was a huge success and demand for the book both from Retailers such as Executive book and individual orders far exceeded expectations. As a result they are presently in the process of launching the Gauteng version.
We arranged to pick Dawn up in Wynberg at cousin Joan at 06.00am. Richard takes out his PC and finds the map that takes us directly to her home. After coffee and a chat we set off for the N2. Richard is in doubt of my ability to navigate our way out but finally concedes a mutter of agreement when he sees that we are on the N2 and not lost. I look out for a BP filling station and only find one in Gordon’s Bay.
Now on the road, we encounter fairly heavy traffic. But we are not rushed and I am not impatient. We have decided to stop in Albertina again as I need to stock up on Biltong for Gerald. Richard wants to purchase some of the Magnetic Bracelets for his Canadian Family. We listed to the wireless for a Cricket score. The Protea’s are playing Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). And to our amazement and great delight we hear that JP Duminee and Dale Steyn have steered us to an incredible 465 and that the Aussies are now going to have to play for a draw. This is a three match series and we have already won the first.
Near to the Biltong shop we find a shop selling toasted sandwiches. I have a toasted Cheese and Tomato and a Chicken Mayonnaise. Both sandwiches are great quality. This shop adjoins the filling station and while it does not look like much there is a nice play area, a place to walk the dog a good Biltong shop and a liquor store that boasts a wide variety of wines. It is perfect as a mid way between PE and CT.
The coffee we order is similar to that which we used to be served by the South African Railways when traveling distances. It is thick strong coffee with bits in it. Dawn tossed her coffee out. Unfortunately the food does not agree with Richard and again he is not feeling his best. Long periods of sitting seem to make Richard feel very uncomfortable and he has ongoing back pain.
The traffic remains heavy and I am able to ask Dawn to take over the driving for a while. In the back seat I lay down and fall fast asleep. As we approach Knysna we are in Bumper to Bumper traffic. We refuel and from here we make our way through a constant flow of cars and trucks to home. My family has been on the beach and enjoying the slides at McArthur Baths.
I drop Dawn and Richard off at their home where they are staying with friend Brenda. Brenda is a Fisherman and currently in Knysna where she is attempting to source a supper from the sea. I am glad to be home. We make a Seafood Paella for supper and turn in early. Stefan & I go out for an early morning run on the promenade and a swim at Hobie Beach the following morning.
It is Monday morning and I know that my office will be quiet and I will have to be creative in organizing a full day. As I get to work I see that the cricket has now taken an even more dramatic turn. The day’s Cricket in Melbourne start at 01.00am our time and now at about 09.00am we have bowled the Aussies out for just 240 and need something like 183 runs to win. And we have a full day to go. Graham Smith scores a steady 30 runs before stumps and so, with a day in hand, and no wickets down, we have to score just over 150 runs. The following day they won the match creating an historic first time ever to win a Series in Australia. Ian dropped J & L off at CT airport to fly back to New York and he & Jenny drive back v through the Hugenot Pass. They stop in Robertson at an antique shop and purchase a Chest of Drawers for WC which they load into the Bushpig.
The wedding invitation:
Saturday 27th December 2008
6.30pm until late
Sundowners, Dinner and Dancing
Dress is “festive”
With love,
Marianne and Patrick
For catering purposes please RSVP by 1 December to let us know you are definitely coming; email, marianne.camerer@gmail.com or 083 2668316
Directions to Welgegund (www.welgegund.co.za):
(Coming from Cape Town, 75 km on good roads, and 50 minutes)
Leaving Cape Town, follow the N1 north towards Paarl. Prior to reaching Paarl, take the off-ramp on to the R44 to Wellington. Stay on this road until you come to a T-junction. You are now in Wellington, on Champagne Drive, with a cemetery on your right. Turn left into Piet Retief Street (R301), and at the first robot – with the Andrew Murray Church on your left – turn right into Church Street. This is the road leading to Bainskloof (R301). After exactly 1 km from the Church, you will see the Wellington Museum on your left. Turn right into Berg Street – indicated on the pavement. After crossing three 4-way stops, continue for 1½ km through agricultural land until you see a small farm school – Saal Charl Cillier – on your right. After about 100 m, a dirt road goes off to the left. Welgegund is signposted. Follow the dirt road to the end – approximately 1 km – into Welgegund.
Peter Giddy
peter@wildcliff.org
December 2008.
WELLINGTON
SATURDAY 27 DECEMBER 2008.
Early in 2008, Patrick Giddy & Marianne Camerer decided to become a married couple. The wedding ceremony took place in February 2008. Marianne asked her parents for a wedding party to take place at a time when more of her family and friends could celebrate the occasion with her.
Barbara could not go to the wedding party as Cathy & Saul were at our home as well as Nicci and her whole family. So when Patrick asked me to go to the party in Cape Town I asked Richard Kumm (Dawn is Barbara’s sister and Richard is Dawn’s husband) if he would be prepared to drive down with me. Once he had accepted and I had approval from Marianne we made plans to drive down to Cape Town on Boxing Day 26.12.2008.
Richard and Dawn had recently acquired their Canadian Permanent Visa and Dawn asked if she could use the opportunity to drive to CT with us as she would go to say good bye to her family and friends in CT at the same time. Richard and Dawn have two daughters who both live in Calgary. Calgary has oil and for this and other reasons, has been a growth economy for a number of years.
Raylene has been in Calgary for something like 15 years with her husband Steve. Tracey and Mark plus two children; Asher & Kayle moved to Calgary from East London three or four years ago. They have a country home where Dawn and Richard share a basement flat that has its own entrance and view across the valley. Dawn tells me that she has plans to become involved in community activities now that she has residence. There is a tiny village near to their home called Priddis. Richard has become part of a Ham Radio group.
Ian’s two daughters; Julia and Laura arrived in SA on Friday 19th and I collected them from the airport that evening. Julia is in the final stages of her Geology studies at Michigan University while Laura completed high school this year with excellent academic records and is now in her first year at Michigan. Please note that Michigan is not pronounced with a T as Mitchigan. It is pronounced as Mishigan. They stayed for a few days with our son Michael who lives in Target Kloof (River Road).
Sunday evening we attended a carols by candlelight service at Clarendon Park School. This was the second year that our church has arranged this evening and it was a huge success. There was a great vibe on the field before the service with Mike Perks providing games. Most of us had a small picnic or bought some boerewors rolls. Both children and adults did quite a bit of socializing. There were 19 in our group: Barbara, Peter, Dawn, Cathy and Saul, Nicci, Stefan, Christian, Aaron & Zara, Ally and friend Ali, and Julia and Laura; Michael, Lene, Jessica, Joshua and Daniel. Our only missing family is Jacqui’s. Jacqui, Michael, Emily and Anabelle are still in London. Jacqui arrives in PE on 1st January 2009.
Then on Monday 22nd I drove J & L to Plett where Patrick and Marianne had been staying for a few days. Ian and Jenny met us there. Ian had stayed the previous night at their house in Springer Baai near to Mossel Baai. They had done some shopping for Wildcliff in George and we loaded J & L’s stuff in the back of the Toyota.
I had a quick lunch after saying my Hello’s to; Ena, Ian & Alice Spence and Alice’s brother Steeg and then headed back to PE. There was a strong tail wind and I flew home in quick time. The road works had been opened and suspended for the holiday period. Unfortunately the opposite applied to Ian and his family as they had to drive into the teeth of the West wind with a fully loaded bakkie. It was a bit of a nightmare of a drive for them.
That week seemed to fly as we were busy at home with family, busy at work and I tried to stay as fit as possible with jogging and swimming in the mornings at Hobie beach with Adrienne and Elmarie. Adrienne & I have been running partners for as many as 25 years. One of her daughters is Jenny Wilson who represents SA in Hockey at the Olympics. Adrienne herself is an international Dive judge and was in Bejing together with Jenny. Elmarie I have met more recently and she is the wife of Peter who is a good friend of Ron who has been a family friend of ours for over 25 years. Ron is currently visiting his son Craig in the UK. On the morning of 24th we did a short run through the Golf Course and ended up at the cars at Grey with a mug of Champagne that Adrienne supplied. One little sip at 06.00am and I felt the “warmth” in my tummy.
All this time Barbara had been trying to keep her family entertained and active while being busy with her traditional presents purchasing and wrapping. Barbara puts huge effort into this activity and at the end of it we had a Christmas tree with a mountain of presents under the tree. Our children’s family’s also placed their gifts under the tree and it was a wonderful time for the younger children to enjoy on Christmas day.
Christmas morning saw a beautiful sunrise and stockings being opened. I collected Sydney, the car guard, from Jerusalem Ministries to guard our house while we were in church. Unfortunately Michael was late for the service so we were not able to all sit together as a family.
The rest of Christmas day was spent in doing the present giving thing. There were piles of papers and boxes all over the place as wrapping was torn off the gifts and excited children examined their prize and then searched for the next one. Ally was quite conservative and took her time in opening the gifts. Each child had a huge red bag or stocking with the smaller gifts. I was given two shirts and a pair of shorts, a gift pack of toiletries, socks and a hanging sign for the front of the house. We had a good relaxed morning and afternoon which included a couple of naps on the couch. I washed and cleaned the car in preparation for the next day’s drive.
The following morning was Boxing Day and I collected Richard and Dawn at their home at about 05.00am. We had a reasonably easy drive to Wildcliff with a stop at Wilderness for a sandwich and then at Albertina where we stocked up at the Gekerfde Biltong shop and Richard bought Dawn a Magnetic Bracelet. This Biltong shop we discovered a few years ago and has become a compulsory stop each time we drive this road.
As we drive to WC I receive a phone call from Patrick asking me to “say a few words”. ‘About what?’ I ask. Patrick in his normal vague way tells me that I should talk about myself. While I know that I am an expert on this subject, I decide to talk about family instead.
We refueled in Heidleberg and stocked up on a few provisions at the Spar. As we arrived at Wildcliff we met up with Keith and his family. Keith has taken on the job of manager of WC for a year. He is ex US Air force and has traveled the world for his work. Now at the age of Mid Forties he has been able to take an early retirement and has committed to WC for a year. He has a wife Paula and two children; Abigail (10) and Bryce (6). They have been fixing up the White House and this is now a completely livable home. They are in the process of finishing off the fittings and providing some furnishings. They are presently staying in the Weaver’s Nest but should be able to move into the WH shortly.
Ian tells me that the Aloe that I planted on the Island of the Pond has survived. ‘Let me see’: thinks I. I take a swim in the pond. The top layer of water is warm like a bath but just below the surface the water is quite brisk. And yes, the Aloe is healthy and growing well. Jenny made up a good lunch of salads. Ian suggests that we take a walk up the Fynbos Road. I was stiff from the drive full from eating and happy for some exercise. As we were about to leave, Bryce calls me over to look at a Puff Adder that he had found on their front doorstep of the WH. It was a healthy looking animal and completely relaxed. Keith told us that he saw it move off later.
We hiked up the road for a bit before Paula caught us up with the Bushpig and we drove the rest of the way to the end of the old Wattle forest area. Where the Wattle has been felled, a forest of new saplings are emerging and will have to be sprayed soon. From here we walked up to Ena’s Falls. As we go up Fynbos Road we again see the impact that the clearing of both the pine and the wattle is already making to the reserve.
Laura had been up to Laura’s Peak before and was keen to show us the view from the top. The wind was quite chilly and this again reminded me of my own rule: never walk without a backpack and basics. Ian had some tape and we were able to mark a trail leading up to the Black Rhino Rock (or Dinosaur rock). And then up to Laura’s Peak. It is a short walk but worth the effort as from here you get a good view of the Hidden Valley and down to the Talari Valley.
Bryce is a bright youngster pointing out the Dassie Midden and the various types of Lichen. I have to ease my way down from rock to rock. Bryce simply jumps where my knees would not stand a chance. He feels the chill in the air so lies down on a warm rock out of the wind. On our way down, back to the bakkie, he tripped and fell. He cut his knee but this did not phase him as he was soon back on his feet sprinting downhill. The next time we saw him was at the driver’s seat of the Bushpig.
Jenny again made us a delicious meal of Turkey and salads. I was ambitious and tried to read in bed, but after five minutes my eyes were closed and the book was on my lap unread. The next time that I was conscious was at about 05.30am when I woke up to join Keith for a run. Keith and I jogged down to the stream and then walk/jogged up to the main gate. Here we turned left and jogged down to the quarry where there was a truck parked. Keith says that this truck has been here for months. I had a look and saw that the keys were still in the ignition. I am pretty sure that the truck is not in running order.
We saw two Heron on the field across from us and startled a buck in the bush near to the road. We turned and headed home and then just as we were approaching the WC gate at the weir, Keith pointed out two Reebuck in the road ahead. We also saw a good number of baboon in the oak tree meadow that morning.
After the run I had my shower and a bite to eat. Including this really great Smoothie that Jenny has made from Raspberry, Banana, Yogurt, ice cream and ice cubes. I check the TV for a cricket score and see that the Australians are in the process of giving us a hiding. They scored 394 in their first innings and, at the end of day two, we are at about 150 for 6. I turn off the TV in disgust. I see myself lazing the rest of the day away until we were to leave at about noon when Jill and family were due to arrive. Not so! Ian had other plans for me: Dig a hole for the Yellow Wood tree next to the pond.
I had made some pancakes and burnt a finger on the pan so was a little sensitive to wielding a pick. No Mercy: said Ian. Dig! So we dug a hole for this tree and finally with great difficulty had the tree secure in position. Off I go to wash and make a cup of tea which I intend to enjoy with Richard who is standing on the stoep watching and enjoying my labours.
Not so for the second time. There is a second hole to dig: this time for the creeper in front of the stoep. We hit rock. No trouble says Ian: move the hole to another place. Paula invites Ian to look at Baboon Poo under microscope. An excited Ian leaves me to dig the hole. So now we are on to the third hole of the day. I know that if I did this on a regular basis I could get fit for digging holes but, despite being in the shade, I am sweating and tired. Finally we have the creeper in place and I am able to pack the car and ready to leave. ‘But first my tea’; thinks I.
Not so for the third time! ‘Are you ready to leave?’ asks Ian. I look at him and with fear in my heart, admit that I am. Water the garden! he orders. So still no tea and no feet up on the bench. Eventually I hide myself in a corner, pour some tea and sit down to relax. Jill arrives and we drive off. We had decided to drive to CT via the Gysmans Hoek pass road but as the Bushpig had no petrol we had to turn around and go via Heidleberg. We stop off at the Wimpy for lunch. It was chock-a-block. We order take-away. They mess up the order but we have to leave and head off for CT.
Richard is not feeling that good. Julia is in the car with us. We drive on to Swellendam and phone Jenny to drive straight through where we plan to turn right to Ashton and Robertson. But somehow I mess up the instructions. After a bit of back and forth including chasing another Toyota which stops after we told Jenny to stop we finally drive off towards the N1 where we plan to off load Julia so that she can drive the last bit with Ian to Wellington. Really funny as we drive ahead then wait for Ian a few times. Each time he drives past us and we catch him up and hoot and wave as we pass him. I don’t think he saw us once! We manage to take time to stop off at the Spanspek Plek and buy a few Sweet Melons.
Finally Julia gets into the car with Ian and we drive through to drop Dawn off with her cousin Sue who lives near to Stefan & Nicci. Richard and I have a quick shower (cold for Richard) and put on our smart clothes. We follow Marianne’s (Lala) instructions & arrive at the wedding party which is being held at Marianne’s family home at Welgegund www.welgegund.co.za in Wellington at 18.30 exactly.
Lala’s Parents: Alex and Sheila Camerer live on a wine and olive farm near to Wellington. It is a wonderful home with a lawn where we are greeted with Champagne and snacks. Richard and I are introduced to family members. I almost make the mistake of calling Lala’s sister (Lissy) Marianne but realize just in time that this is a sister. A twin sister I am told later. I am able to sit down with an old friend of Patrick and of Mike Dean; (Margie) and her husband (Ian) plus two children Megan and Rosa. Megan & I find out that we share a birthday. Mine is just 38 years ahead of hers.
While sitting and chatting; a musical trio of a violinist, a flute player and a cello player serenade us with delightful music. Throughout the evening this trio plays in and around the guests. They accompany the background music when it is time to dance and they walk around tables making the evening even more romantic.
I see Shauna. She looks terrific. I am introduced to her husband Trevor and girls: Josie (10) and elder sister and younger brother (Names?). I am really sorry that I did not persuade Ally to come along as Ally loves to meet family. Shauna has a wonderful family and we are able to chat about Lloyd and Judy who I am delighted to hear still live at Little Falls Mooi River. I tell Barbara about this and we determine to try to visit them when we are in KZN for Nippers later in 2009.
Ena, Alice and Steeg arrive. They look good and dressed for the occasion. I am sorry to see that Ian Spence could not make it as he was not feeling his best. Ian, Jenny, Julia and Laura are there and look very smart. The two girls seem to be enjoying being in South Africa and being part of our activities. I love having them around as both of them are mature, intelligent and active young people. Add to that their good looks!
After a period of meeting people and chatting on the lawn we move to the dining area which is a covered stoep area. There is a very long table where Patrick and Marianne sit plus three smaller tables. I am fortunate enough to be on one of the small tables seated with some young people. On my left is Julia (a cousin to Lala) who is studying at Oxford University. I meet Shamus, Julia’s boyfriend. I like Julia: she tells me I look younger than my younger brother! She also tells me that she has rediscovered Christ and now attends the evening services at a vibrant Anglican church in Oxford.
I also sit next to Lissy. Lissy is married to an Ian. I meet him later that evening. And I see some children but lose track of who belongs to whom. The Minister says a short speech and then says the Grace. He does so in Latin, reminding me of my school days. The Grace ends something like Payasim Christim Dominum Nostrum: Amen. We learn that this invites us to the Heavenly Banquet. Later that evening I meet his wife Cecelia. We are served a delicious pastry with tomato mush and then there is a buffet of salmon plus a variety of salad. This is a real treat. I have heard that there is pudding so I avoid seconds.
Meanwhile Sheila makes a speech and tells us a bit about her experience of the couple. I think that the family has reservations about Patrick marrying their lovely daughter. But ultimately have no choice despite the fact that he does funny things like keeping his cap on his head during breakfast. As long as Lala sees the humourous side of Patrick they will be fine. Sheila loves Thomas and that cannot be put aside. Alex seems to be easy going. I have not met the Grandmother but I hear that she is still questioning this strange relationship. Lissy appears happy that Lala is happy. Everyone does a great deal of hugging.
Lala takes us through a very interesting chronological history of her coupling up with Patrick. (I have asked her for her notes). Sarah, a family friend makes an impromptu speech. And I am asked to say my bit as well. I have two points that I have decided to make: firstly it is really good to see Patrick so happy. And Secondly I try to introduce the people who originate in some way from ‘Patrick’s side’. Our Mother: Ena, her sister in Law & best friend: Alice and Alice’s brother Steeg from Sweden. Then there is Shauna, Trevor and their children. Our elder brother Ian, his children Julia and Laura and his wife Jenny. Patrick’s friend Margie and her family. Richard, who kept me company on my drive from PE.
Lissy orders all the men to stand and move four places in a clockwise direction. This applies to the main table only and everyone gets a chance to meet some new people. Then Pudding is served. It is a kind of Baked Alaska with Meringue and ice cream. Yummy! I have some of this while sitting at Richard’s table. Then, while the dancing is going on, I help myself to seconds. To avoid looking like the glutton that I am, I move to another table for this helping.
I encounter Rebecca (mother of Julia) and daughter Rebecca. Alex joins us and announces that we are sitting over the drain. We decide to move outside to the lawn for coffee. Julia and I dance. This has been quite an outing for us. The evening has been quite enchanting. The weather played its part as it was a clear, starry sky with little or no dew. Lissy and her team have run the logistics of the evening with precision. The meal was both healthy and tasty.
Both Richard & I have met a number of people who seem to fit into Marianne’s family in some way. Richard had a lady at his table who seems to think that he was a Hit Man and wanted him to take care of some problem people. Alex and Sheila are being shipped out to Bulgaria for a four year period to set up a South African Embassy there. I will have to look up on the map to find Bulgaria. Sheila, who is a lawyer, works in the Government as a Politician. Alex tells us that he will have to commute back to RSA to see to his farming activities. His son, who I did not meet, will be taking care of some of the business aspects as well. They are having to learn Bulgarian which is similar to Russian with a funny alphabet.
I have been a really good boy and only had my one glass of wine that I used for toasting and am quite fit for the hour drive home when Richard and I decide that the witching hour is upon us. We greet as many people as we can and head off back to Stellenberg where we flop into bed for a 5 hour sleep. Nicci & Stefan Steenkamp operate their Photographic business from their home in Stellenberg. www.zara-zoo.com
Nicci and Stefan have recently launched a wedding planner called the little pink book. The launch in Cape Town was a huge success and demand for the book both from Retailers such as Executive book and individual orders far exceeded expectations. As a result they are presently in the process of launching the Gauteng version.
We arranged to pick Dawn up in Wynberg at cousin Joan at 06.00am. Richard takes out his PC and finds the map that takes us directly to her home. After coffee and a chat we set off for the N2. Richard is in doubt of my ability to navigate our way out but finally concedes a mutter of agreement when he sees that we are on the N2 and not lost. I look out for a BP filling station and only find one in Gordon’s Bay.
Now on the road, we encounter fairly heavy traffic. But we are not rushed and I am not impatient. We have decided to stop in Albertina again as I need to stock up on Biltong for Gerald. Richard wants to purchase some of the Magnetic Bracelets for his Canadian Family. We listed to the wireless for a Cricket score. The Protea’s are playing Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). And to our amazement and great delight we hear that JP Duminee and Dale Steyn have steered us to an incredible 465 and that the Aussies are now going to have to play for a draw. This is a three match series and we have already won the first.
Near to the Biltong shop we find a shop selling toasted sandwiches. I have a toasted Cheese and Tomato and a Chicken Mayonnaise. Both sandwiches are great quality. This shop adjoins the filling station and while it does not look like much there is a nice play area, a place to walk the dog a good Biltong shop and a liquor store that boasts a wide variety of wines. It is perfect as a mid way between PE and CT.
The coffee we order is similar to that which we used to be served by the South African Railways when traveling distances. It is thick strong coffee with bits in it. Dawn tossed her coffee out. Unfortunately the food does not agree with Richard and again he is not feeling his best. Long periods of sitting seem to make Richard feel very uncomfortable and he has ongoing back pain.
The traffic remains heavy and I am able to ask Dawn to take over the driving for a while. In the back seat I lay down and fall fast asleep. As we approach Knysna we are in Bumper to Bumper traffic. We refuel and from here we make our way through a constant flow of cars and trucks to home. My family has been on the beach and enjoying the slides at McArthur Baths.
I drop Dawn and Richard off at their home where they are staying with friend Brenda. Brenda is a Fisherman and currently in Knysna where she is attempting to source a supper from the sea. I am glad to be home. We make a Seafood Paella for supper and turn in early. Stefan & I go out for an early morning run on the promenade and a swim at Hobie Beach the following morning.
It is Monday morning and I know that my office will be quiet and I will have to be creative in organizing a full day. As I get to work I see that the cricket has now taken an even more dramatic turn. The day’s Cricket in Melbourne start at 01.00am our time and now at about 09.00am we have bowled the Aussies out for just 240 and need something like 183 runs to win. And we have a full day to go. Graham Smith scores a steady 30 runs before stumps and so, with a day in hand, and no wickets down, we have to score just over 150 runs. The following day they won the match creating an historic first time ever to win a Series in Australia. Ian dropped J & L off at CT airport to fly back to New York and he & Jenny drive back v through the Hugenot Pass. They stop in Robertson at an antique shop and purchase a Chest of Drawers for WC which they load into the Bushpig.
The wedding invitation:
Saturday 27th December 2008
6.30pm until late
Sundowners, Dinner and Dancing
Dress is “festive”
With love,
Marianne and Patrick
For catering purposes please RSVP by 1 December to let us know you are definitely coming; email, marianne.camerer@gmail.com or 083 2668316
Directions to Welgegund (www.welgegund.co.za):
(Coming from Cape Town, 75 km on good roads, and 50 minutes)
Leaving Cape Town, follow the N1 north towards Paarl. Prior to reaching Paarl, take the off-ramp on to the R44 to Wellington. Stay on this road until you come to a T-junction. You are now in Wellington, on Champagne Drive, with a cemetery on your right. Turn left into Piet Retief Street (R301), and at the first robot – with the Andrew Murray Church on your left – turn right into Church Street. This is the road leading to Bainskloof (R301). After exactly 1 km from the Church, you will see the Wellington Museum on your left. Turn right into Berg Street – indicated on the pavement. After crossing three 4-way stops, continue for 1½ km through agricultural land until you see a small farm school – Saal Charl Cillier – on your right. After about 100 m, a dirt road goes off to the left. Welgegund is signposted. Follow the dirt road to the end – approximately 1 km – into Welgegund.
Peter Giddy
peter@wildcliff.org
December 2008.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
SUMMERSTRAND NIPPERS 2008
SUMMERSTRAND NIPPERS
MINUTES OF A MEETING HELD AT CATHCART ROAD 31 JANUARY 2008.
Warren,
Varrin
Deon
Lee
Hannes
Clint
Peter
Carnival of Sunday 3 Feb 2008 at Kings Beach.
Be there at 06.30 to set up arena’s and our own tent and equipment.
Bring finishing numbers
Scoring books
Peter to be U12 Scorer
Safety Officers and craft – Warren to follow up with Clive.
Patrick Billson and other parents to assist with safety?
Donald to bring the Distance Meter
Warren and Clint will organise a new batch of Hose Pipe Flags.
Warren will bring 8 Penny Pinchers Feather Flags for the “Flags beach arena”.
We will be setting up
4 X Flags arenas
1 X Sprint arena
2 X Water Arenas
Parents and coaches are encouraged to wear Summerstrand kit to help with the support and identification of our teams.
Dave Collins to assist with this carnival?
Level Test on Saturday 2nd Feb 2008. at 17.00 at Hobie Beach.
Varrin and Warren will both try to be there.
Lee has sent out notice to the new nippers about this level test.
East Cape Nippers: Plett carnival is on track and we will encourage as many Nippers as possible to be there.
Provincial Nippers: Selection and dates:
Warren will approach East Cape Lifesaving to see if we cannot bring the Provincial Competition a day forward to the Thursday as the Nippers are exhausted after a competition like this and cannot perform at their best if they have to go straight into the National Nippers competition.
Warren will approach EP Surf regarding team selection following the SA Lifesaving comment on the Minister of Sport’s comments on this matter.
Nationals:
We need to find a sponsor or sponsors to assist with the Kit and other expenses. Deon will approach a possible Sponsor with a proposal. Urgent as there may be printing etc to be done.
Dave Naude may be able to campaign for a sponsor or sponsors.
All new nippers should be kitted with board shorts and yellow shirts.
We will be having a Nippers Evening on Saturday 16th February.
We will have to contact the parents and Nippers to tell them about this as we plan to have some Lucky Draws for the Nippers, a “Party Pack” for each Nipper.
Possible evening to talk about Nippers Nationals, East Cape in Plett and the Provincial teams.
Also give some feedback on the two carnivals that we have already had.
Donald to set up the DVD presentation if possible.
We will have a Potjie as well as a 100 club the same evening.
There is Super 14 rugby: Stormers vs Bulls at 17.00 and Cheetas vs Lions at 19.00. on that evening.
NIPPERS NEWSLETTER. Sunday 3 February 2008.
Sunday morning: I left home early on the bike. The wind had been blowing for most of the night and it was a strong west wind that almost blew me off the bike as I rode down to Kings Beach. Varrin, Clint, Donald, Hannes, Roger and Warren met to set up the Tent and take the craft onto the beach.
Warren hitches the trailer to Clint’s vehicle and takes a running start but gets stuck in the deep sand. We are able to tow his vehicle with Paul’s 4X4 and finally have the trailer on the beach. Setting up the tent is going to be a real challenge in the wind. We had to hammer the pegs deep into the sand and pile loose sand onto the bottom sides of the tent to make it more secure. The wind gusts and men like Hannes are almost blown away as they grip tightly onto corners of the tent.
Once we had the tent set up we were able to get our team together. I was delighted to see a good turnout of nippers that morning. The wind must have put some of the nippers and parents off going to the beach but most of the teams were there to represent Summerstrand.
Our first priority was to get the new Nippers through their level test. They had done most of the work the previous afternoon but were unable to swim due to a strong East Wind. Some of them were a little nervous with the West wind blowing so strongly this morning, but we soon had them out there swimming as far as some of them had ever swum in their lives. It is always good to see these young people developing new skills and abilities. This was no exception and all of them passed their level test and were then able to compete in this Carnival.
The U12’s started off with a Malibu Individual race. We were concerned that the nippers may become blown away by the strong winds but they all coped exceptionally well and that set the tone for the rest of the morning. The events ran in quick succession. After the individual Malibu event, the U12’s took part in Sprints, Beach Relay, Long Run, Run-Swim-Run and Malibu Relay.
By the time they had completed their last event the organisers had decided to call it a day.
The sun and sand had taken their toll but we had all had a great morning on the beach. We must thank the organisers for setting up this Carnival for our benefit. Claire and her team had to work in the clubhouse and could not even watch their children participate. The Tuckshop ladies put on some fine faire but due to the wind and cutting the Carnival short they were left with supplies over. Plett in particular should be congratulated for their participation. They had to drive down from Plett in awful winds and then had to drive back again in equally bad weather.
A number of Nippers had taken part in Water Polo, Gala’s and Biathlon on the previous day. You could see that they had their race number from the previous day’s event still written onto their arms next to their Nippers numbers for the Carnival. These youngsters must have been exhausted as many of them would take part in every event in the Carnival.
The overall result was Summerstrand U10’ and U14’s won and the U12’s came second. Summerstrand had some outstanding Nippers recognised: Adam Stevenson, Jamie Lee Engelke and Matthew Wilson. Summerstrand were overall winners for the second Carnival in a row. Our next Carnival is due to be held in Plett from Saturday afternoon to Sunday afternoon the 1st and 2nd of March. This is the East Cape Champs and we will need to have a full team of participants if we are to have any chance of being “East Cape Champs” for the next season.
We will be meeting for Practice on Sunday 10th Feb between 11.00am to 13.00. Marius has agreed to assist with vital function of coaching of the Micro Nippers. These are the youngsters who will be the core of our U10 team of 2008/2009. Marius will need all the help that he can get from other parents or siblings willing to assist. Your U10, U12 and U14 coaches will be on duty and we expect to see all of you there for the next four weeks leading up to the Plett Carnival.
Saturday 16th February: We will be having a Nippers evening in the club house. This evening will be focussed on the Nippers: They will each receive some kind of “Party Pack” as well as Certificates to reward our young members for their efforts over the past two Carnivals.
This evening we will also be able to enjoy meeting parents as Clint will be cooking up his famous Pootjie, we will run Hundred Club draw and will be able to watch the Super 14 matches as the Stormers play the Bulls at 17.00 and Cheetas play the Lions at 19.00. We will also be talking to Nippers and Parents about the upcoming Plett East Cape Champs and the National Champs. Donald has offered to set up a DVD presentation of “Nippers in Action”. Please put this important evening into your diary.
Sponsorship(s). It is critical for us to try to secure sponsors for our National event in April. Your club has some huge expenses in equipment, kit for the Nippers and Parents as well as during the event itself. Please let us know if you would like us to approach an organisation or if you are able to make an approach on our behalf. Deon Engelke and Dave Naude will be available to make presentations and give some facts and figures.
Nippers
Summerstrand
Annual General Meeting and awards evening.
Held at the Summerstrand Lifesaving clubhouse
Friday 27th June 2008. 19.30h
A number of Certificates and Awards were handed to an exceptionally strong Nippers team for the 2007/2008 season.
The Under 14 Dream Team were recognised for their achievements and spirit over the past five or six years. Each one was awarded a Beanie and those leaving were urged to join up with the juniors.
Donald opened the meeting.
Warren read a comprehensive and detailed Chairman’s report. (see below)
Warren thanked the parents for their support.
Dave Collins complimented the parents on their participation.
Terry offered a DVD to assist with recruitment.
Sponsorship is essential for then new season.
Every parent is urged to be part of the parent team in what ever small way you can.
The following people offered to be part of the administration and coaching team for the 2008/2009 season.
Warren Collier – Chairman
Clint Meintjies – Vice Chairman
Terry Hepburn – Shadow Chairman
Peter Giddy – Secretary
Lee Collier – Actual Secretary
Shereen Van Der Watt -- assistant to Lee in Level Tests.
ANO --- Assistant to Lee in Carnival Coordination.
Claire Meintjies – Treasurer
Julie Dalgliesh – Assistant to Claire
Charmaine -- Tuckshop
Caryn Hepburn – Tuckshop assistant
Jacqui Zeelie – Clothing
Donald McGillivray -- Recruitment
Coaches
Roger Lightening; Andrew Jonas; Varrin Karp; Shereen Van Der Watt; Donald McGillivray; Alex Odendaal; Hannes Zeelie; Deon Engelke; Roger Fraser; Peter Giddy; Clint Meintjies; Charles Du Toit; Marius Smuts
Summerstrand Surf Nippers
Chairperson’s Report
27th June 2008.
1 Performance during the Season
The club has had its best season in recent years, winning ALL the local carnivals, including East Cape Champs, a title we have not held for three years. To top off and excellent season, we came a very close second to Fish Hoek at Nipper Nationals, who only beat us by a slim 27 points!
Well done to all our nippers, as each one of you contributed to these great results. While the nipper team achieved the club wins, we must also salute great individual performances. A number of U12 and U14 nippers received recognition from East Cape, and would have received colours if there had been an East cape side. These nippers were:
U12 U14
Kyla Naude Kirstie Engelke
Meghan Derry Lauren Billson
Kurt Van Staden Adam Stevenson
Luke Stevenson Oliver Wiehahn
Giovanni Falco
Jordan Zeelie
Nippers winning Victor and Victrix Ludorum awards this season included:
Adam Stevenson
Oliver Wiehahn
Lauren Billson
Matthew Wilson
Jamie- Lee Engelke
Lara Odendaal
Special mention must be made of our U14’s win at nationals. This group of nippers has won their section at nationals three times:
U10 – 2004
U12- 2006
U14- 2008
They are truly our dream team!!
2. Equipment
The challenge for the club this season was that we did not have an official sponsor. We had made a decision that our nippers needed to compete on Hurricane Boards, so we needed to find individual sponsors. I managed to arrange some contributors through my Penny pinchers suppliers. I would like to thank the following:
Rob Dowding - Ceiling Master
James Thompson - Motorvia
Spectrum Agencies
Swartland
Col Timbers
3. Financial Results
Claire Meintjes efficiently handled the finances this season. We started the season with around R20 000, thanks to the Equisweet sponsorship of the last two years. This also enabled us to buy two additional club Hurricane Boards. We paid for all carnival expenses and all club function expenses, and we have ended the season with around R6 000 in the bank.
This means we cannot be as generous next season, as we will only have membership fees and clothing profits to rely on. We need to find a sponsor for 2008/09.
4. Club events
We had a number of enjoyable social activities this season. We had 3 100 Club draws, the Christmas Party and the Gees party. Many thanks to Clint Meintjes, who provided us with very tasty food on most of these occasions!
Many thanks to all the families who supported us on these occasions. We believe that people who socialise together, will work hard together!
5. Thanks
A club of this magnitude cannot function successfully, without a lot of effort on the part of certain members. I would like to give special thanks to the following people:
4.1 Our coaching staff:
Joe Zeelie, Deon Engelke and Alex Odendaal, who achieved wonderful results with a small group. They won all the local U10 carnivals and lost out to Fish Hoek at nationals by only 12 points!
Varrin Karp, Roger Fraser and Peter Giddy, who did great work with the U12’s
Clint Meintjes, Charles Du Toit and Don McGillivray, who had the pleasure of coaching our victorious Dream Team U14’s!
4.2 Our Committee
Thanks to all committee members. However, special mention must be made of Claire Meintjes for coordinating the many administrative activities required to run the club.
4.3 Other Helpers
Terry Hepburn for all the photography, and for all the excellent recruiting efforts
Hannelie Bakker for officiating at carnivals
Lee Kemp for assisting with level tests and carnival arrangements
All the moms and dads who helped at practice and at carnivals!
Charmaine Ubsdell for helping at clothing/tuckshop on a Sunday!
Finally, we need to focus on 2008/09 to ensure that we continue on a winning trend. To do this, we need new blood on the committee, as the current committee all leave at the end of next season and we need continuity! We also need to recruit new nippers. We urgently need U10’s! We also need more beach specialists, especially at U14 level!
I am sure that as a Summerstrand Surf Team we can maintain our dominant position.
Warren Collier
Chairman
Summerstrand Nippers.
SUMMERSTRAND NIPPERS.
Minutes of a meeting held at Clint & Claire on Wednesday 8 October 2008 at 18.30pm
Apologies:
Charles
Alex
Deon
Roger
Andrew
Present
Shareen
Peter
Clint
Claire
Warren
Donald
Hannes
Minutes of the last meeting:
Promotions:
St Georges was a success with Jonathan Liss being very positive
Summerwood on Monday 13th
Grey on Tuesday 14th
Deon sent out a very successful communication which was read by Neil Bissiker on Radio Algoa. See below for a copy.
U 10’s need more girls and U14’s need boys.
Nippers Nationals
Accommodation is still being negotiated as prices and quality do not seem to match. The host club to provide suggestions.
City / Road Lodge
Beach Hotel
Sponsorships
Nothing finalised
Gavin’s brother at Tiger. Donald to send a DVD to Allison Cameron with appropriate wording.
Other opportunities for branding or sponsorships:
Feathers
Clubhouse (Warren to follow up with Seniors)
Body Boards (Hannes) minimum of 20 are required.
Trailer. Possible for Atlas Mike Burmeister to fix up and brand the trailer.
Tent branding
Hurricane Boards if paid for
Costumes and scull caps
4 X torpedo’s required.
Subscriptions and fees as discussed last meeting.
Carnival and other competition fees to be paid individually.
Hardship discussions or applications to go directly to Claire.
Nippers Calendar
Warren has approached East Cape for hosting of a carnival as well as East Cape Champs.
Decisions still to be made regarding dates and East Cape to let us know as soon as possible.
Sunday 12th:
Free Hot dogs and Ice Cream: We will be providing for a potential 100 people.
Peter to buy Ice Cream and to bring gas cooker
Claire will prepare hot dogs.
We need as many coaches as possible as we have a number of people who will be away this Sunday.
Deon
Alex
Andrew
Marius
Roger
Varrin
Gavin
Peter
Shareen
Brian Saunders?
Ant Cox?
Warren
And any other coaches who will assist.
Scull caps: if the Nipper does not have a scull cap they will not be able to take part in training. In this case the nipper will have to “hire” one for a R30.00 deposit which will be refunded on return of the cap. It is impossible to control ‘unbranded’ Nippers.
Parents vs Nippers
Tug-o-War
Beach Relays
Flags
General
First 100 Club – 1 November 2008 Saturday.
Claire and Charmaine did an excellent job of sorting out the clothing. But even more good news: they took all the “old” clothing that we no longer use and gave this to a soccer club in Kwanobuhle (Uitenhage) and this club has 11 soccer teams kitted out and now wearing Summerstrand branded clothing. Great Move Claire!
Age categories:
If your birthday is before 30 September then you fall in the younger age group.
For example: If you turn TEN on 30 September then you are Under 12: But if you turn TEN on 1st October then you are Under 10 for that season. If in doubt please consult with Claire or your coach.
Requirements for Nippers Level Tests:
Must swim 400 Meters in a swimming pool. Once off only.
Must have a Birth Certificate
Must sign an indemnity form
Must complete the application form for a Level Test.
Must have the Level test Vouchers
If all of this has been done and submitted to East Cape Office then you will be entitled to apply for the next level test in two weeks thereafter.
We require some heavy weight anchors for the buoys
Disco for Grade 6 and Grade 7 only
Before or after Exams?
Nippers to sell tickets at R5
If response of Minimum 30 then go ahead.
Message sent by Deon to Radio Algoa.
Thanks Deon – nice one.
Very nice filler and I will use now at 08h30 this morning in sport and will also pass on to Roy Williams for his What’s On diary.
Shot for sending on to us.
Neil
Dear Shadley or Neil
Are you able to make use of this little article in sport or under upcoming events or when you chat about the weekend sport?
I am involved with Nippers at Summies and we are trying to grow this sport and develop water-skills etc.
Thanks gents
Deon
SUMMERSTRAND HOSTS NIPPERS OPEN DAY
Summerstrand Surf Lifesaving Club at Pollock Beach begins its bid to win national honours when the Nipper season officially starts on Sunday.
The club will host an Open Day for all prospective Nippers and their families this Sunday from 11am-1pm as they prepare to improve their national ranking.
The club is one of the strongest in the country, having been placed a narrow second at the Nipper Nationals Champs earlier this year, but it is not all about winning.
Club Chairperson Warren Collier said Nippers, or lifesaving for children aged between 8 and 14, was about developing life-skills on the beach and in the water.
“One of the greatest things, especially for people who live at the coast, is the ability to enjoy and handle the sea conditions and this is what Nippers develops in a safe, fun environment,”
Collier said. “It is one the most empowering activities for young people.”
The club near Something Good at Pollock Beach will be open to all newcomers this Sunday with goodies for all participants.
For more information please contact Deon Engelke at 041 3630310 or 082 692 4382 – cell
ends
Deon Engelke
Inkanyezi Events
tel 0413630310
fax0413638617
www.inkanyezi.co.za
242 Cape Road
Greenacres
Port Elizabeth
SUMMERSTRAND NIPPERS
Minutes of a committee meeting held on Thursday 13.11.2008. at Peter’s house:18.30pm.
Present:
Nicole
Shareen
Thomas
Andrew
Donald
Hannes
Clint
Warren
Terry
Peter
Apologies
Claire
Roger F
Roger & Louise L
Varrin
Charles
Deon
Welcome to Nicole, Thomas and Andrew. Andrew made the comment as to how much more the Nippers enjoy the activity when parents are involved. So thank you to you for your interest, attendance and contribution.
Minutes of the previous meeting.
Cash Flow:
Cash to be banked and money owed to Meintjies’ family to paid over.
Paid for Chafe vests, cossies and scull caps.
Paid for level tests and open day.
Shirley, Caryn and Charmaine are keeping the Tuck Shop well stocked. Many thanks and well done to them for all their efforts.
Clothing
T shirts and Shorts order has been placed. May be ready for Sunday 16th.
Chafe Vests for Coaches
Coaches: Please respond (Now!) to Claire or Peter if you want a Chafe Vest. Thanks to those already responded. Please let Claire have the money for this.
S,M,L R155; XL R165; 2XL R175; 3XL R180; 4XL R190
Level Test Dates and times.
There will be a Re-Test of those Nippers who did a Level test on Sunday 9.11.2008 but who for one or other reason did not qualify. This will be at Hobie Beach at 10.00am. Nippers should be at the beach 20 Minutes early as there will be a coach to revise on Signals etc.
There will be a Level Test for all other Nippers who have handed in a Birth Certificate and who have completed their pool swim. This Level Test will be conducted at Hobie Beach on Sunday 23.11.2008. 10.00am
Sponsorships
Donald presented a DVD that he had made up for Tiger Brands. It showed the sponsor brand, the extent of the exposure and Nippers in action. It is a very effective DVD and he has offered to do something similar for Puma and for ADT who are potential sponsors. Hannes may be able to secure a sponsorship for scull caps for all nippers plus something like 100 more.
Nippers Nationals Accommodation.
Claire has obtained a group booking at the Parade Hotel. Price is R2 300 for three nights for a double (three bed family) sea facing / corner room. Or R1 960 for a Twin Room. R800 deposit has to be paid per room. I have spoken to Brenda at the hotel and she needs a verbal commitment by about 20.11.2008 and a Financial Commitment as soon as possible thereafter. Parents to confirm with Claire or Peter as soon as possible.
Arrive Thursday 2 April 2009 and depart Sunday 5th April 2009.
Nippers Nationals is a Three Day event starting on the Friday at Midday and ending on Sunday at about 14.00 or 15.00pm after the prize giving and awards ceremony.
Coaches to contact their parent and Nipper groups.
Nippers Carnival in Plett. Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November.
We have not yet had a program but in previous years the Plett Carnival starts on Saturday at about 12.00 on the Main Beach. Payment of R10 or R20 per Nipper must be made on arrival.
Nippers must have completed a Level Test for their age category to be allowed to compete.
These Carnivals are fun events and Every Nipper will be able to compete in a variety of events.
We will pitch our Yellow Gazebo as the central meeting place on Central Beach.
Parents should make their own accommodation arrangements. There are a number of options: Camping, Bed and Breakfast’s, Castleton or the River Club are suggestions. Nippers gain a huge amount of experience and have a great time at the Plett Carnival.
We must have parents willing to take times and places at each age group. This information is required for our own awards as well as future team selections.
Everyone must assist with off loading and loading of the craft onto the trailer.
Please stay for the awards and results at the end even after your child has completed his/her last event. This will finish at about 15.00.
Peter to establish if there will be a level test at Plett on the morning before the event. Also what are their requirements regarding teams etc.
Nippers Hobie Beach Carnival on Sunday 7th December. More details to follow.
100 Club. This will be held on Friday 5th December. This will be a Bring & Braai. Details to follow.
Disco Evening on hold
Judges:
Warren will contact a number of the existing Summerstrand Judges and Officials to see who will be at Plett and Hobie beach. He will also ask East Cape what are the requirements. Peter & Hannes attended a “course” last season.
In the East Cape LSA Minutes they state:
There will a judges/officials course in our area.
Hurricane product display.
Monday 17th November at 17.30: all parents and Nippers are invited to Summerstrand for a display of the Hurricane Wares. They will have a variety of their products on offer. Nippers may also want to “Test Drive” if it is a good afternoon.
Sunday 16th and Sunday 23rd will be trials for teams for the upcoming carnivals. Coaches will be taking times.
Donald suggested that we establish a “Ladder” for the various disciplines. This to be put up in the clubhouse.
In some cases times and teams for Beach sprints and relays have been established.
Trailer
Warren and Penny Pinchers, Barkhuizens and Uli Von WIlderman have done a complete overhaul of the Trailer. Thanks to these generous sponsors. To be branded “Penny Pinchers”
Subscriptions: if you have not yet paid:
2008/2009 Fees for Nippers Membership:
R350 for first child
R250 for subsequent children in one family.
Approach the treasurer (Claire) should fees be a problem.
No change from 2007/2008.
Micro Nippers are trained at no cost but must wear Summerstrand colours including a scull cap.
Carnivals: Entry fee of between R10 and R20 to be paid by individuals.
Nationals Entry Fee at about R100 to be paid by individuals.
Direct deposits : “Summerstrand surf lifesaving club cadets”
Standard bank branch 050017; Account Number : 080023835;
Email confirmation to Claire at shrek_3@vodamail.co.za
Or pay in cash on Sunday.
Updated Calendar of events:
Sunday 16th and 23rd November Nippers practice and trails for upcoming Carnivals. Level tests at Hobie Beach.
Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 November --- Plett Carnival. Parents to make own travel and accommodation arrangements.
Sunday 7th December possible carnival at Kings Beach
Sunday 28th December 2008: Sunday: No Nippers practices.
December & January school holidays: Nippers will continue through the school holidays on Sundays 11.00am to 13.00.
10 January 2009: committee, coaches and parents meeting to plan and organise the Summerstrand carnival. Peter’s house at 18.30pm.
25th January 2009: Summerstrand carnival at Summerstrand. (Pollock Beach)
15 February 2009: Cut off date for Nippers Level test for East Cape champs.
22 February 2009: Redhouse River Mile.
28 February 2009. Cut off date for Level Test for Nippers to take part in Nationals in Durban.
7th March 2009: East Cape Champs. Hosted by Summerstrand at Summerstrand Pollock Beach.
Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th April 2009: Nippers Nationals: Ushaka Beach, Durban.
SUMMERSTRAND NIPPERS COMMITTEE MEETING
Notice and agenda
Notice of a Summerstrand Nippers Committee and Coaches meeting to be held on 8 January 2008 at Peter’s house: 23 Mill Park Road: 18.30pm
Agenda
Welcome
Minutes of the meeting of 13.11.2008.
Level Tests
Preparation for the Summerstrand Carnival of 25th January 2008.
Beach Preparation
Arena’s
One or Two water arena’s
2 X Flags set up: Ropes and measurements
Sprint arena.
Officials and Duties
Results and recording
Program of events
Tuckshop and catering
Shower and toilet facilities
Catering for officials and volunteers
Entry lists and Entry fee collection.
Safety officers
Other
.
NIPPERS HOBIE BEACH CARNIVAL
Sunday 7 December 2008.
From the start we battled to extract any information regarding this carnival. We knew that it was on the Nippers Calendar, however that was about the sum total of the information that we received. In addition to this we had the added complication of an Aquabear Gala and Water Polo events on the same day. Finally, after some time and effort, Claire was able to obtain a program. The Carnival was to be held at Hobie beach at 09.00am and the first event was to be a Taplin relay and then a number of events would follow.
I was able to send out a notification with just days to spare and must apologise to those who did not hear about this Carnival and who waited for us at Summerstrand.
The Trailer was still packed from the Plett weekend and Warren parked the trailer in the Hobie Parking lot. We arrived at around 08.00am and began with setting up our tent. The tent is to me, a symbol for parents and for Nippers, that Summerstrand it there. And that we are prepared for the day’s activities. We then brought some of the boards down to the beach and within a few minutes, Nippers started to arrive and were out in the ocean having a great time.
East London were next to arrive and then Paul from Kings Beach arrived with a small team of his Nippers. East London had somehow received a notification of the Carnival and had a reasonably large team of Nippers. There was, as far as I could see, only one little girl (Whitney) from Hobie Beach. Time passed and 9.00am approached without any sign of arena’s being set up nor any of the organising club being present. Resourceful as ever; the Kings Beach and Summerstrand coaches banded together and decided that we would run our own Mini Carnival.
First out were the U10 Taplin teams with other age groups following suite. Warren had rushed back to Summies to fetch some flags and we set up a flags arena which our small team of U10’s were first to use. The U14’s headed off to a sprint arena that had been set up and now we had a bit of a flow going. Parents assisted in all kinds of ways including; scoring, marshalling, water safety and catching. Even Katharine and Lisa Marie assisted in the water as the U10.s did their body board event.
During the morning between about 9.00am to 12.00pm we managed to fit in: Taplin, Flags, Individual Beach sprints, individual Body board, individual Malibu board, beach sprint relays and finally an Iron Nipper event. The one thing about having less control is that normal rules don’t apply: We dispensed with numbers. We did not ask who had done their level tests, when we had to do the team beach sprints we did not have the right numbers for teams so organised mixed (between clubs) teams for the event. And to top it all when we asked which of the U10 Nippers felt up to doing an Iron Nipper event we had a contingent of about 10 brave young boys and girls who were willing to take a chance.
Brett from East London made himself into a human Buoy and the U10’s swam around him and then Body Boarded around him as well. The event ended up with the youngest of Nippers out on Malibu’s around the red buoy. This is a tough event for these young people and we can be proud of there courage. The u14’s and U12’s followed with an Iron Nipper event.
Despite the non existent organisation those who were able to make it down to the beach on Sunday had a wonderful morning. The sea was flat and almost waveless. Most of us were able to find reasonably good parking and for those of us who enjoy a swim with the Nippers it was a fine morning for a “Goof”. Thank you parents for the many ways in which you assist so willingly. Without your support on and off the beach we could not organise this fantastic life style for our children.
Finally thanks to the Nippers for your enthusiastic participation and the way you have bonded into a team. Summerstrand was well represented and while I don’t think that there are going to be official results, I would be surprised if we would not have won the day despite depleted teams.
Peter
7.12.2008.
NIPPERS
PLETTENBERGBAY CARNIVAL
Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th November 2008.
The Plett Carnival always seems to spring itself on us early in the season. However it is a great motivator to get us all going with training, Level Tests, sorting out teams and recruiting of new Nippers. This year the Plett carnival was postponed to the end of November so we had a bit of breathing space. We had recruited huge numbers of new Nippers and these young people and their parents all had to be introduced to what Nippers and carnivals are all about. The U10’s had started off with something like 6 Nippers at the first Sunday and this had grown to over 25 active Nippers at last count. The U12’s and U14’s had also a whole gang of new young boys and girls who seemed as keen as anything to become part of this great activity.
Our daughter, Ally had decided that she no longer needed us and travelled down to Plett with her long time friend, Amber. So Barbara & I drove down on Saturday morning on our own. It seemed like it was going to be a bit overcast and I had a few doubtful parents question whether the carnival would go ahead as planned. My stock answer to this question for both Sunday practices and Carnivals is: “Your coaches will be there!”
After we had off loaded our stuff at my mothers flat (she lives in Plett), we headed for the beach and were happy to see that Warren had found a good parking and had left the trailer for the first there to off load. There were a couple of other parents who also arrived early and we quickly got stuck into carting the boards to our normal spot that we like to book for Summerstrand. We had the tent up in a flash and Barbara had our chairs (so kindly donated to us by Terry Billson) set up. I had brought programs and teams so that as the Nippers arrived they could see what was going to be expected of them.
Ant Cox called a managers meeting at 11.00am and once some of the detail had been sorted out we were able to start the first events. In the U10 group we realised that we had just 7 participants and the first event was the Taplin Relay which required four Nippers per team. When we explained that the swim was WAAAAY out to the two buoys and back then the body board section would be the same there was a bit of a pause before we convinced our team that we would be fielding two teams with one member having to do two disciplines. The U12s and U14’s had no such trouble as they have some wonderfully capable swimmers and boarders. Fortunately the Plett surf did not let us down and it was reasonably flat and calm throughout the Carnival.
I promised our younger team members that I would be with them the whole time so ended up doing quite a bit of water work that afternoon. And, by the way, the sea temperature was not as warm as it will be in Durban later next year! But in the end we did our thing and, much to the coach’s delight and pride, both U10 teams finished the Taplin Relay. We then moved on to the Flags section where the U10’s were much more comfortable and we had a good number in the finals. Poor young Marion was the only girl in the U10 squad but she certainly held her own doing almost every possible event that there was.
That afternoon we managed to complete the Taplin relay, the Flags heats, the individual Body Board event, the individual Swim event, the individual Beach Sprints heats, the Malibu relay, the Beach Sprints Relay heats and the Body Board Relay. This is a huge number of events for any Nipper and by the end of the day (16.30) everyone was quite exhausted. The day had remained overcast and cool and so we had the weather on our side.
Someone had booked supper at the fish restaurant near to Castleton and we headed off there for supper. A group of parents had stayed at the beach restaurant to watch both 15’s and 7’s rugby and by the time the arrived at supper they had already had a fair share of enjoyment. It was a stunning evening and we sat outside together with a table full of U14s at one table and U12s at another. The rest of the U12’s were having themselves a ball at Castleton. The vibe amoungst both the adults and the youngsters was something to experience.
Sunday morning we were up early and at the beach shortly after 07.00am. Ant had said we should start the first event at 08.00. The first event of the day would be the long run starting with the U10 girls. Our lone representative, Marion, was nowhere to be seen. Andrew must have decided to sleep in a bit. The run of 800m started without her. Then when the girls were already half way in their run the Jonas’ family arrived. Marion was not to be left out and she started the run all on her own. The amazing thing to see was the way the Summies U14’s ran in with her at the end. I think that it was more than just Barbara who felt quite choked up with emotion seeing the support that Summies gives to their team. Marion’s effort scored points for the Summies U10 team.
Our U10 boys took off at a sprint but then the distance was a bit too much for them: we need to work on this for future. The U12 girls were next and we saw Ally sprint off in front. In fact it was quite funny to see the look on her face of: “What am I doing here in front?” Well she held her own to the turn and then was overtaken but a slight young girl. Despite efforts from rivals to run ahead of her, Ally managed to stay in second place to the end. It was about now that I realised that she is no longer my little girl but a real tough young lady who can hold her own at any event that Nippers can throw at her. The U12 boys and the both groups in the U14’s did very well and this set the scene for the rest of the day. There was a bit of a scare after the U12 boys finished in that Jonathan N collapsed and his parents took him home early to make sure that there was not more that needed attention. I believe that he is back on his feet again and will be back at Summerstrand as soon as he can.
We went through the Run Swim Run, Beach sprint relay finals, Malibu board individual, Beach sprint individual finals, Iron Nipper and finally the Flags finals. The U12 boys was quite a sight as we had 9 out of 10 boys in Summies kit. Flags is, to me, one of the toughest events; as this is an elimination event. And the Nippers know that at any time they may be eliminated in front of a group of parents and peers. But this is what builds character in our children and we can be as proud of them if they are eliminated in the very first round as if they make it through to the final two.
Today had been sunny and as we sat watching our young champions doing their thing at flags I would feel the sun on my legs. I knew that I would suffer the next day. But the joy of being on the beach and in the sea and the wonderful enjoyment that we get out of being with a group of Nippers would far outweigh any pain. The carnival ended at about 15.30 after we had loaded the boards and kit back into the trailer.
The final results?
U10 U12 U14
1 Plett SS SS
2 KB KB KB
3 SS Plett Plett
Top boy Matt McGillivray Kurt V Staden
Top girl Christie Vaughan Lauren Billson
So well done Summerstrand. You were first overall and held up your title as East Cape Champs! The U10’s may have not ended up first in their group but they contributed to the overall result and we are very proud of them for what they achieved over these two days. Especially their participation in the sea events.
Parents: if this was your first Carnival: we hope that you have enjoyed it and will be back on the beach to support your Nipper as often as possible. Should you wish to be part of the adult group in any way there is a need for parent participation as much as there is for the nippers to take part. Please approach your coach or one of us to talk about how you can contribute to the ongoing success of Nippers at Summerstrand.
Our U10 group has a long way to go to be a force to be reckoned with. But we will get there. The U12 group is very strong but have one weakness in that we need two or three more strong swimmers and boarders. The U14’s look like they have already built a strong team in all departments. Recruiting must be something that we all do all the time: talk Nippers to parents and children alike. Particularly if you know that they have a strength either in water or on their feet.
Thanks to Plett for setting it up and to parents and Nippers alike for all your support and encouragement.
Peter
3.12.2008.
NIPPERS
SUMMERSTRAND
12TH OCTOBER 2008.
SUMMERSTRAND NIPPERS: NEWSLETTER
We are really back into the season.
Today we had a huge turnout from existing Nippers as well as a wonderful response to the work of Deon and others to promote Nippers for the new season.
Shareen, Andrew, Marius, Roger Lightening and I coached the U10’s and Micro Nippers. Shareen had 6 boys last week. This week we had 8 girls and about 14 boys. And they were really very keen once they got into the swing of the game. The morning started off with a stunning display from the whales and the dolphins as they helped to add something special to the morning at Summerstrand.
We started the U10’s and Micro Nippers off with a bit of running in the shallows and then did a bit of a warm up away from their parents.
Once they were starting to feel as if they belonged to a team we played a game of fetch the balls and put them into baskets. And in no time at all they were running in and out of the surf as if this was the most natural thing to do. We put them on body boards for a short while. This allowed the first timers to become accustomed to the boards.
We then had a bit of a relay event including running into the surf.
We finished the morning off with Flags and we can already identify a few of the youngsters who will be next year’s stars.
Claire and Charmaine had prepared some Hot Dogs and Ice Creams. Once we had the Nippers really good and tired we sent them off to enjoy a bit of a treat. Being in the back rooms of Nippers is really hard work. Thank you ladies for what you do here.
The Under 12’s were led by Deon, Alex, Hannes and I think had about 30 Nippers. The coaches were not at all soft with this group and soon had them out on Malibu boards and swimming around the buoys. Deon reports that there were at least 6 of the 10 newcomers who had never been that deep into the sea before. “It is really encouraging to be able to be part of the journey that these young people are taking into a life of beach surf proficiency.” Hannes commented: “We are going to have a few great sprint teams for the new season”.
The Under 14’s were coached by Brian, Carmell, Lauren and Varrin. Varrin coached the 6 newcomers while Brian handled the more experienced group of 12.
In total we had about 70 Nippers on the beach this Sunday.
It was great to see previous U14’s, who have now moved on to Juniors, assisting all round. They were seen to be active in the club house as well as on the beach. Thanks to them.
Thank you to the parents who were there today. You have made a wonderful decision to bring your children to the beach. Personally I can think of nothing better for a young person than to develop a healthy respect and yet an ability to overcome a fear of the surf. Two hours of beach fun is one of the best ways your child can spend a Sunday morning.
We hope to see you again next week. Please note that while the weather was great today, it is not always the case. But you will find coaches there every Sunday. 11.00am to 13.00pm.
We should have a program for the upcoming carnivals soon and will pass this information to you as soon as possible.
Level Tests: Before a Nipper is allowed to take part in a competition (competitions in Nippers are known as Carnivals) the youngster has to undergo a level test. This test comprises answering a few simple questions which we will coach the Nippers on in advance. They then complete a run swim run. We do this on Hobie beach and it is well supervised by coaches and safety officers. Parents have to supply us with a copy of the Nippers’ Birth Certificate as well as a signed indemnity form. New parents please hand these into Claire as soon as possible so that we can book a level test.
MINUTES OF A MEETING HELD AT CATHCART ROAD 31 JANUARY 2008.
Warren,
Varrin
Deon
Lee
Hannes
Clint
Peter
Carnival of Sunday 3 Feb 2008 at Kings Beach.
Be there at 06.30 to set up arena’s and our own tent and equipment.
Bring finishing numbers
Scoring books
Peter to be U12 Scorer
Safety Officers and craft – Warren to follow up with Clive.
Patrick Billson and other parents to assist with safety?
Donald to bring the Distance Meter
Warren and Clint will organise a new batch of Hose Pipe Flags.
Warren will bring 8 Penny Pinchers Feather Flags for the “Flags beach arena”.
We will be setting up
4 X Flags arenas
1 X Sprint arena
2 X Water Arenas
Parents and coaches are encouraged to wear Summerstrand kit to help with the support and identification of our teams.
Dave Collins to assist with this carnival?
Level Test on Saturday 2nd Feb 2008. at 17.00 at Hobie Beach.
Varrin and Warren will both try to be there.
Lee has sent out notice to the new nippers about this level test.
East Cape Nippers: Plett carnival is on track and we will encourage as many Nippers as possible to be there.
Provincial Nippers: Selection and dates:
Warren will approach East Cape Lifesaving to see if we cannot bring the Provincial Competition a day forward to the Thursday as the Nippers are exhausted after a competition like this and cannot perform at their best if they have to go straight into the National Nippers competition.
Warren will approach EP Surf regarding team selection following the SA Lifesaving comment on the Minister of Sport’s comments on this matter.
Nationals:
We need to find a sponsor or sponsors to assist with the Kit and other expenses. Deon will approach a possible Sponsor with a proposal. Urgent as there may be printing etc to be done.
Dave Naude may be able to campaign for a sponsor or sponsors.
All new nippers should be kitted with board shorts and yellow shirts.
We will be having a Nippers Evening on Saturday 16th February.
We will have to contact the parents and Nippers to tell them about this as we plan to have some Lucky Draws for the Nippers, a “Party Pack” for each Nipper.
Possible evening to talk about Nippers Nationals, East Cape in Plett and the Provincial teams.
Also give some feedback on the two carnivals that we have already had.
Donald to set up the DVD presentation if possible.
We will have a Potjie as well as a 100 club the same evening.
There is Super 14 rugby: Stormers vs Bulls at 17.00 and Cheetas vs Lions at 19.00. on that evening.
NIPPERS NEWSLETTER. Sunday 3 February 2008.
Sunday morning: I left home early on the bike. The wind had been blowing for most of the night and it was a strong west wind that almost blew me off the bike as I rode down to Kings Beach. Varrin, Clint, Donald, Hannes, Roger and Warren met to set up the Tent and take the craft onto the beach.
Warren hitches the trailer to Clint’s vehicle and takes a running start but gets stuck in the deep sand. We are able to tow his vehicle with Paul’s 4X4 and finally have the trailer on the beach. Setting up the tent is going to be a real challenge in the wind. We had to hammer the pegs deep into the sand and pile loose sand onto the bottom sides of the tent to make it more secure. The wind gusts and men like Hannes are almost blown away as they grip tightly onto corners of the tent.
Once we had the tent set up we were able to get our team together. I was delighted to see a good turnout of nippers that morning. The wind must have put some of the nippers and parents off going to the beach but most of the teams were there to represent Summerstrand.
Our first priority was to get the new Nippers through their level test. They had done most of the work the previous afternoon but were unable to swim due to a strong East Wind. Some of them were a little nervous with the West wind blowing so strongly this morning, but we soon had them out there swimming as far as some of them had ever swum in their lives. It is always good to see these young people developing new skills and abilities. This was no exception and all of them passed their level test and were then able to compete in this Carnival.
The U12’s started off with a Malibu Individual race. We were concerned that the nippers may become blown away by the strong winds but they all coped exceptionally well and that set the tone for the rest of the morning. The events ran in quick succession. After the individual Malibu event, the U12’s took part in Sprints, Beach Relay, Long Run, Run-Swim-Run and Malibu Relay.
By the time they had completed their last event the organisers had decided to call it a day.
The sun and sand had taken their toll but we had all had a great morning on the beach. We must thank the organisers for setting up this Carnival for our benefit. Claire and her team had to work in the clubhouse and could not even watch their children participate. The Tuckshop ladies put on some fine faire but due to the wind and cutting the Carnival short they were left with supplies over. Plett in particular should be congratulated for their participation. They had to drive down from Plett in awful winds and then had to drive back again in equally bad weather.
A number of Nippers had taken part in Water Polo, Gala’s and Biathlon on the previous day. You could see that they had their race number from the previous day’s event still written onto their arms next to their Nippers numbers for the Carnival. These youngsters must have been exhausted as many of them would take part in every event in the Carnival.
The overall result was Summerstrand U10’ and U14’s won and the U12’s came second. Summerstrand had some outstanding Nippers recognised: Adam Stevenson, Jamie Lee Engelke and Matthew Wilson. Summerstrand were overall winners for the second Carnival in a row. Our next Carnival is due to be held in Plett from Saturday afternoon to Sunday afternoon the 1st and 2nd of March. This is the East Cape Champs and we will need to have a full team of participants if we are to have any chance of being “East Cape Champs” for the next season.
We will be meeting for Practice on Sunday 10th Feb between 11.00am to 13.00. Marius has agreed to assist with vital function of coaching of the Micro Nippers. These are the youngsters who will be the core of our U10 team of 2008/2009. Marius will need all the help that he can get from other parents or siblings willing to assist. Your U10, U12 and U14 coaches will be on duty and we expect to see all of you there for the next four weeks leading up to the Plett Carnival.
Saturday 16th February: We will be having a Nippers evening in the club house. This evening will be focussed on the Nippers: They will each receive some kind of “Party Pack” as well as Certificates to reward our young members for their efforts over the past two Carnivals.
This evening we will also be able to enjoy meeting parents as Clint will be cooking up his famous Pootjie, we will run Hundred Club draw and will be able to watch the Super 14 matches as the Stormers play the Bulls at 17.00 and Cheetas play the Lions at 19.00. We will also be talking to Nippers and Parents about the upcoming Plett East Cape Champs and the National Champs. Donald has offered to set up a DVD presentation of “Nippers in Action”. Please put this important evening into your diary.
Sponsorship(s). It is critical for us to try to secure sponsors for our National event in April. Your club has some huge expenses in equipment, kit for the Nippers and Parents as well as during the event itself. Please let us know if you would like us to approach an organisation or if you are able to make an approach on our behalf. Deon Engelke and Dave Naude will be available to make presentations and give some facts and figures.
Nippers
Summerstrand
Annual General Meeting and awards evening.
Held at the Summerstrand Lifesaving clubhouse
Friday 27th June 2008. 19.30h
A number of Certificates and Awards were handed to an exceptionally strong Nippers team for the 2007/2008 season.
The Under 14 Dream Team were recognised for their achievements and spirit over the past five or six years. Each one was awarded a Beanie and those leaving were urged to join up with the juniors.
Donald opened the meeting.
Warren read a comprehensive and detailed Chairman’s report. (see below)
Warren thanked the parents for their support.
Dave Collins complimented the parents on their participation.
Terry offered a DVD to assist with recruitment.
Sponsorship is essential for then new season.
Every parent is urged to be part of the parent team in what ever small way you can.
The following people offered to be part of the administration and coaching team for the 2008/2009 season.
Warren Collier – Chairman
Clint Meintjies – Vice Chairman
Terry Hepburn – Shadow Chairman
Peter Giddy – Secretary
Lee Collier – Actual Secretary
Shereen Van Der Watt -- assistant to Lee in Level Tests.
ANO --- Assistant to Lee in Carnival Coordination.
Claire Meintjies – Treasurer
Julie Dalgliesh – Assistant to Claire
Charmaine -- Tuckshop
Caryn Hepburn – Tuckshop assistant
Jacqui Zeelie – Clothing
Donald McGillivray -- Recruitment
Coaches
Roger Lightening; Andrew Jonas; Varrin Karp; Shereen Van Der Watt; Donald McGillivray; Alex Odendaal; Hannes Zeelie; Deon Engelke; Roger Fraser; Peter Giddy; Clint Meintjies; Charles Du Toit; Marius Smuts
Summerstrand Surf Nippers
Chairperson’s Report
27th June 2008.
1 Performance during the Season
The club has had its best season in recent years, winning ALL the local carnivals, including East Cape Champs, a title we have not held for three years. To top off and excellent season, we came a very close second to Fish Hoek at Nipper Nationals, who only beat us by a slim 27 points!
Well done to all our nippers, as each one of you contributed to these great results. While the nipper team achieved the club wins, we must also salute great individual performances. A number of U12 and U14 nippers received recognition from East Cape, and would have received colours if there had been an East cape side. These nippers were:
U12 U14
Kyla Naude Kirstie Engelke
Meghan Derry Lauren Billson
Kurt Van Staden Adam Stevenson
Luke Stevenson Oliver Wiehahn
Giovanni Falco
Jordan Zeelie
Nippers winning Victor and Victrix Ludorum awards this season included:
Adam Stevenson
Oliver Wiehahn
Lauren Billson
Matthew Wilson
Jamie- Lee Engelke
Lara Odendaal
Special mention must be made of our U14’s win at nationals. This group of nippers has won their section at nationals three times:
U10 – 2004
U12- 2006
U14- 2008
They are truly our dream team!!
2. Equipment
The challenge for the club this season was that we did not have an official sponsor. We had made a decision that our nippers needed to compete on Hurricane Boards, so we needed to find individual sponsors. I managed to arrange some contributors through my Penny pinchers suppliers. I would like to thank the following:
Rob Dowding - Ceiling Master
James Thompson - Motorvia
Spectrum Agencies
Swartland
Col Timbers
3. Financial Results
Claire Meintjes efficiently handled the finances this season. We started the season with around R20 000, thanks to the Equisweet sponsorship of the last two years. This also enabled us to buy two additional club Hurricane Boards. We paid for all carnival expenses and all club function expenses, and we have ended the season with around R6 000 in the bank.
This means we cannot be as generous next season, as we will only have membership fees and clothing profits to rely on. We need to find a sponsor for 2008/09.
4. Club events
We had a number of enjoyable social activities this season. We had 3 100 Club draws, the Christmas Party and the Gees party. Many thanks to Clint Meintjes, who provided us with very tasty food on most of these occasions!
Many thanks to all the families who supported us on these occasions. We believe that people who socialise together, will work hard together!
5. Thanks
A club of this magnitude cannot function successfully, without a lot of effort on the part of certain members. I would like to give special thanks to the following people:
4.1 Our coaching staff:
Joe Zeelie, Deon Engelke and Alex Odendaal, who achieved wonderful results with a small group. They won all the local U10 carnivals and lost out to Fish Hoek at nationals by only 12 points!
Varrin Karp, Roger Fraser and Peter Giddy, who did great work with the U12’s
Clint Meintjes, Charles Du Toit and Don McGillivray, who had the pleasure of coaching our victorious Dream Team U14’s!
4.2 Our Committee
Thanks to all committee members. However, special mention must be made of Claire Meintjes for coordinating the many administrative activities required to run the club.
4.3 Other Helpers
Terry Hepburn for all the photography, and for all the excellent recruiting efforts
Hannelie Bakker for officiating at carnivals
Lee Kemp for assisting with level tests and carnival arrangements
All the moms and dads who helped at practice and at carnivals!
Charmaine Ubsdell for helping at clothing/tuckshop on a Sunday!
Finally, we need to focus on 2008/09 to ensure that we continue on a winning trend. To do this, we need new blood on the committee, as the current committee all leave at the end of next season and we need continuity! We also need to recruit new nippers. We urgently need U10’s! We also need more beach specialists, especially at U14 level!
I am sure that as a Summerstrand Surf Team we can maintain our dominant position.
Warren Collier
Chairman
Summerstrand Nippers.
SUMMERSTRAND NIPPERS.
Minutes of a meeting held at Clint & Claire on Wednesday 8 October 2008 at 18.30pm
Apologies:
Charles
Alex
Deon
Roger
Andrew
Present
Shareen
Peter
Clint
Claire
Warren
Donald
Hannes
Minutes of the last meeting:
Promotions:
St Georges was a success with Jonathan Liss being very positive
Summerwood on Monday 13th
Grey on Tuesday 14th
Deon sent out a very successful communication which was read by Neil Bissiker on Radio Algoa. See below for a copy.
U 10’s need more girls and U14’s need boys.
Nippers Nationals
Accommodation is still being negotiated as prices and quality do not seem to match. The host club to provide suggestions.
City / Road Lodge
Beach Hotel
Sponsorships
Nothing finalised
Gavin’s brother at Tiger. Donald to send a DVD to Allison Cameron with appropriate wording.
Other opportunities for branding or sponsorships:
Feathers
Clubhouse (Warren to follow up with Seniors)
Body Boards (Hannes) minimum of 20 are required.
Trailer. Possible for Atlas Mike Burmeister to fix up and brand the trailer.
Tent branding
Hurricane Boards if paid for
Costumes and scull caps
4 X torpedo’s required.
Subscriptions and fees as discussed last meeting.
Carnival and other competition fees to be paid individually.
Hardship discussions or applications to go directly to Claire.
Nippers Calendar
Warren has approached East Cape for hosting of a carnival as well as East Cape Champs.
Decisions still to be made regarding dates and East Cape to let us know as soon as possible.
Sunday 12th:
Free Hot dogs and Ice Cream: We will be providing for a potential 100 people.
Peter to buy Ice Cream and to bring gas cooker
Claire will prepare hot dogs.
We need as many coaches as possible as we have a number of people who will be away this Sunday.
Deon
Alex
Andrew
Marius
Roger
Varrin
Gavin
Peter
Shareen
Brian Saunders?
Ant Cox?
Warren
And any other coaches who will assist.
Scull caps: if the Nipper does not have a scull cap they will not be able to take part in training. In this case the nipper will have to “hire” one for a R30.00 deposit which will be refunded on return of the cap. It is impossible to control ‘unbranded’ Nippers.
Parents vs Nippers
Tug-o-War
Beach Relays
Flags
General
First 100 Club – 1 November 2008 Saturday.
Claire and Charmaine did an excellent job of sorting out the clothing. But even more good news: they took all the “old” clothing that we no longer use and gave this to a soccer club in Kwanobuhle (Uitenhage) and this club has 11 soccer teams kitted out and now wearing Summerstrand branded clothing. Great Move Claire!
Age categories:
If your birthday is before 30 September then you fall in the younger age group.
For example: If you turn TEN on 30 September then you are Under 12: But if you turn TEN on 1st October then you are Under 10 for that season. If in doubt please consult with Claire or your coach.
Requirements for Nippers Level Tests:
Must swim 400 Meters in a swimming pool. Once off only.
Must have a Birth Certificate
Must sign an indemnity form
Must complete the application form for a Level Test.
Must have the Level test Vouchers
If all of this has been done and submitted to East Cape Office then you will be entitled to apply for the next level test in two weeks thereafter.
We require some heavy weight anchors for the buoys
Disco for Grade 6 and Grade 7 only
Before or after Exams?
Nippers to sell tickets at R5
If response of Minimum 30 then go ahead.
Message sent by Deon to Radio Algoa.
Thanks Deon – nice one.
Very nice filler and I will use now at 08h30 this morning in sport and will also pass on to Roy Williams for his What’s On diary.
Shot for sending on to us.
Neil
Dear Shadley or Neil
Are you able to make use of this little article in sport or under upcoming events or when you chat about the weekend sport?
I am involved with Nippers at Summies and we are trying to grow this sport and develop water-skills etc.
Thanks gents
Deon
SUMMERSTRAND HOSTS NIPPERS OPEN DAY
Summerstrand Surf Lifesaving Club at Pollock Beach begins its bid to win national honours when the Nipper season officially starts on Sunday.
The club will host an Open Day for all prospective Nippers and their families this Sunday from 11am-1pm as they prepare to improve their national ranking.
The club is one of the strongest in the country, having been placed a narrow second at the Nipper Nationals Champs earlier this year, but it is not all about winning.
Club Chairperson Warren Collier said Nippers, or lifesaving for children aged between 8 and 14, was about developing life-skills on the beach and in the water.
“One of the greatest things, especially for people who live at the coast, is the ability to enjoy and handle the sea conditions and this is what Nippers develops in a safe, fun environment,”
Collier said. “It is one the most empowering activities for young people.”
The club near Something Good at Pollock Beach will be open to all newcomers this Sunday with goodies for all participants.
For more information please contact Deon Engelke at 041 3630310 or 082 692 4382 – cell
ends
Deon Engelke
Inkanyezi Events
tel 0413630310
fax0413638617
www.inkanyezi.co.za
242 Cape Road
Greenacres
Port Elizabeth
SUMMERSTRAND NIPPERS
Minutes of a committee meeting held on Thursday 13.11.2008. at Peter’s house:18.30pm.
Present:
Nicole
Shareen
Thomas
Andrew
Donald
Hannes
Clint
Warren
Terry
Peter
Apologies
Claire
Roger F
Roger & Louise L
Varrin
Charles
Deon
Welcome to Nicole, Thomas and Andrew. Andrew made the comment as to how much more the Nippers enjoy the activity when parents are involved. So thank you to you for your interest, attendance and contribution.
Minutes of the previous meeting.
Cash Flow:
Cash to be banked and money owed to Meintjies’ family to paid over.
Paid for Chafe vests, cossies and scull caps.
Paid for level tests and open day.
Shirley, Caryn and Charmaine are keeping the Tuck Shop well stocked. Many thanks and well done to them for all their efforts.
Clothing
T shirts and Shorts order has been placed. May be ready for Sunday 16th.
Chafe Vests for Coaches
Coaches: Please respond (Now!) to Claire or Peter if you want a Chafe Vest. Thanks to those already responded. Please let Claire have the money for this.
S,M,L R155; XL R165; 2XL R175; 3XL R180; 4XL R190
Level Test Dates and times.
There will be a Re-Test of those Nippers who did a Level test on Sunday 9.11.2008 but who for one or other reason did not qualify. This will be at Hobie Beach at 10.00am. Nippers should be at the beach 20 Minutes early as there will be a coach to revise on Signals etc.
There will be a Level Test for all other Nippers who have handed in a Birth Certificate and who have completed their pool swim. This Level Test will be conducted at Hobie Beach on Sunday 23.11.2008. 10.00am
Sponsorships
Donald presented a DVD that he had made up for Tiger Brands. It showed the sponsor brand, the extent of the exposure and Nippers in action. It is a very effective DVD and he has offered to do something similar for Puma and for ADT who are potential sponsors. Hannes may be able to secure a sponsorship for scull caps for all nippers plus something like 100 more.
Nippers Nationals Accommodation.
Claire has obtained a group booking at the Parade Hotel. Price is R2 300 for three nights for a double (three bed family) sea facing / corner room. Or R1 960 for a Twin Room. R800 deposit has to be paid per room. I have spoken to Brenda at the hotel and she needs a verbal commitment by about 20.11.2008 and a Financial Commitment as soon as possible thereafter. Parents to confirm with Claire or Peter as soon as possible.
Arrive Thursday 2 April 2009 and depart Sunday 5th April 2009.
Nippers Nationals is a Three Day event starting on the Friday at Midday and ending on Sunday at about 14.00 or 15.00pm after the prize giving and awards ceremony.
Coaches to contact their parent and Nipper groups.
Nippers Carnival in Plett. Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November.
We have not yet had a program but in previous years the Plett Carnival starts on Saturday at about 12.00 on the Main Beach. Payment of R10 or R20 per Nipper must be made on arrival.
Nippers must have completed a Level Test for their age category to be allowed to compete.
These Carnivals are fun events and Every Nipper will be able to compete in a variety of events.
We will pitch our Yellow Gazebo as the central meeting place on Central Beach.
Parents should make their own accommodation arrangements. There are a number of options: Camping, Bed and Breakfast’s, Castleton or the River Club are suggestions. Nippers gain a huge amount of experience and have a great time at the Plett Carnival.
We must have parents willing to take times and places at each age group. This information is required for our own awards as well as future team selections.
Everyone must assist with off loading and loading of the craft onto the trailer.
Please stay for the awards and results at the end even after your child has completed his/her last event. This will finish at about 15.00.
Peter to establish if there will be a level test at Plett on the morning before the event. Also what are their requirements regarding teams etc.
Nippers Hobie Beach Carnival on Sunday 7th December. More details to follow.
100 Club. This will be held on Friday 5th December. This will be a Bring & Braai. Details to follow.
Disco Evening on hold
Judges:
Warren will contact a number of the existing Summerstrand Judges and Officials to see who will be at Plett and Hobie beach. He will also ask East Cape what are the requirements. Peter & Hannes attended a “course” last season.
In the East Cape LSA Minutes they state:
There will a judges/officials course in our area.
Hurricane product display.
Monday 17th November at 17.30: all parents and Nippers are invited to Summerstrand for a display of the Hurricane Wares. They will have a variety of their products on offer. Nippers may also want to “Test Drive” if it is a good afternoon.
Sunday 16th and Sunday 23rd will be trials for teams for the upcoming carnivals. Coaches will be taking times.
Donald suggested that we establish a “Ladder” for the various disciplines. This to be put up in the clubhouse.
In some cases times and teams for Beach sprints and relays have been established.
Trailer
Warren and Penny Pinchers, Barkhuizens and Uli Von WIlderman have done a complete overhaul of the Trailer. Thanks to these generous sponsors. To be branded “Penny Pinchers”
Subscriptions: if you have not yet paid:
2008/2009 Fees for Nippers Membership:
R350 for first child
R250 for subsequent children in one family.
Approach the treasurer (Claire) should fees be a problem.
No change from 2007/2008.
Micro Nippers are trained at no cost but must wear Summerstrand colours including a scull cap.
Carnivals: Entry fee of between R10 and R20 to be paid by individuals.
Nationals Entry Fee at about R100 to be paid by individuals.
Direct deposits : “Summerstrand surf lifesaving club cadets”
Standard bank branch 050017; Account Number : 080023835;
Email confirmation to Claire at shrek_3@vodamail.co.za
Or pay in cash on Sunday.
Updated Calendar of events:
Sunday 16th and 23rd November Nippers practice and trails for upcoming Carnivals. Level tests at Hobie Beach.
Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 November --- Plett Carnival. Parents to make own travel and accommodation arrangements.
Sunday 7th December possible carnival at Kings Beach
Sunday 28th December 2008: Sunday: No Nippers practices.
December & January school holidays: Nippers will continue through the school holidays on Sundays 11.00am to 13.00.
10 January 2009: committee, coaches and parents meeting to plan and organise the Summerstrand carnival. Peter’s house at 18.30pm.
25th January 2009: Summerstrand carnival at Summerstrand. (Pollock Beach)
15 February 2009: Cut off date for Nippers Level test for East Cape champs.
22 February 2009: Redhouse River Mile.
28 February 2009. Cut off date for Level Test for Nippers to take part in Nationals in Durban.
7th March 2009: East Cape Champs. Hosted by Summerstrand at Summerstrand Pollock Beach.
Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th April 2009: Nippers Nationals: Ushaka Beach, Durban.
SUMMERSTRAND NIPPERS COMMITTEE MEETING
Notice and agenda
Notice of a Summerstrand Nippers Committee and Coaches meeting to be held on 8 January 2008 at Peter’s house: 23 Mill Park Road: 18.30pm
Agenda
Welcome
Minutes of the meeting of 13.11.2008.
Level Tests
Preparation for the Summerstrand Carnival of 25th January 2008.
Beach Preparation
Arena’s
One or Two water arena’s
2 X Flags set up: Ropes and measurements
Sprint arena.
Officials and Duties
Results and recording
Program of events
Tuckshop and catering
Shower and toilet facilities
Catering for officials and volunteers
Entry lists and Entry fee collection.
Safety officers
Other
.
NIPPERS HOBIE BEACH CARNIVAL
Sunday 7 December 2008.
From the start we battled to extract any information regarding this carnival. We knew that it was on the Nippers Calendar, however that was about the sum total of the information that we received. In addition to this we had the added complication of an Aquabear Gala and Water Polo events on the same day. Finally, after some time and effort, Claire was able to obtain a program. The Carnival was to be held at Hobie beach at 09.00am and the first event was to be a Taplin relay and then a number of events would follow.
I was able to send out a notification with just days to spare and must apologise to those who did not hear about this Carnival and who waited for us at Summerstrand.
The Trailer was still packed from the Plett weekend and Warren parked the trailer in the Hobie Parking lot. We arrived at around 08.00am and began with setting up our tent. The tent is to me, a symbol for parents and for Nippers, that Summerstrand it there. And that we are prepared for the day’s activities. We then brought some of the boards down to the beach and within a few minutes, Nippers started to arrive and were out in the ocean having a great time.
East London were next to arrive and then Paul from Kings Beach arrived with a small team of his Nippers. East London had somehow received a notification of the Carnival and had a reasonably large team of Nippers. There was, as far as I could see, only one little girl (Whitney) from Hobie Beach. Time passed and 9.00am approached without any sign of arena’s being set up nor any of the organising club being present. Resourceful as ever; the Kings Beach and Summerstrand coaches banded together and decided that we would run our own Mini Carnival.
First out were the U10 Taplin teams with other age groups following suite. Warren had rushed back to Summies to fetch some flags and we set up a flags arena which our small team of U10’s were first to use. The U14’s headed off to a sprint arena that had been set up and now we had a bit of a flow going. Parents assisted in all kinds of ways including; scoring, marshalling, water safety and catching. Even Katharine and Lisa Marie assisted in the water as the U10.s did their body board event.
During the morning between about 9.00am to 12.00pm we managed to fit in: Taplin, Flags, Individual Beach sprints, individual Body board, individual Malibu board, beach sprint relays and finally an Iron Nipper event. The one thing about having less control is that normal rules don’t apply: We dispensed with numbers. We did not ask who had done their level tests, when we had to do the team beach sprints we did not have the right numbers for teams so organised mixed (between clubs) teams for the event. And to top it all when we asked which of the U10 Nippers felt up to doing an Iron Nipper event we had a contingent of about 10 brave young boys and girls who were willing to take a chance.
Brett from East London made himself into a human Buoy and the U10’s swam around him and then Body Boarded around him as well. The event ended up with the youngest of Nippers out on Malibu’s around the red buoy. This is a tough event for these young people and we can be proud of there courage. The u14’s and U12’s followed with an Iron Nipper event.
Despite the non existent organisation those who were able to make it down to the beach on Sunday had a wonderful morning. The sea was flat and almost waveless. Most of us were able to find reasonably good parking and for those of us who enjoy a swim with the Nippers it was a fine morning for a “Goof”. Thank you parents for the many ways in which you assist so willingly. Without your support on and off the beach we could not organise this fantastic life style for our children.
Finally thanks to the Nippers for your enthusiastic participation and the way you have bonded into a team. Summerstrand was well represented and while I don’t think that there are going to be official results, I would be surprised if we would not have won the day despite depleted teams.
Peter
7.12.2008.
NIPPERS
PLETTENBERGBAY CARNIVAL
Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th November 2008.
The Plett Carnival always seems to spring itself on us early in the season. However it is a great motivator to get us all going with training, Level Tests, sorting out teams and recruiting of new Nippers. This year the Plett carnival was postponed to the end of November so we had a bit of breathing space. We had recruited huge numbers of new Nippers and these young people and their parents all had to be introduced to what Nippers and carnivals are all about. The U10’s had started off with something like 6 Nippers at the first Sunday and this had grown to over 25 active Nippers at last count. The U12’s and U14’s had also a whole gang of new young boys and girls who seemed as keen as anything to become part of this great activity.
Our daughter, Ally had decided that she no longer needed us and travelled down to Plett with her long time friend, Amber. So Barbara & I drove down on Saturday morning on our own. It seemed like it was going to be a bit overcast and I had a few doubtful parents question whether the carnival would go ahead as planned. My stock answer to this question for both Sunday practices and Carnivals is: “Your coaches will be there!”
After we had off loaded our stuff at my mothers flat (she lives in Plett), we headed for the beach and were happy to see that Warren had found a good parking and had left the trailer for the first there to off load. There were a couple of other parents who also arrived early and we quickly got stuck into carting the boards to our normal spot that we like to book for Summerstrand. We had the tent up in a flash and Barbara had our chairs (so kindly donated to us by Terry Billson) set up. I had brought programs and teams so that as the Nippers arrived they could see what was going to be expected of them.
Ant Cox called a managers meeting at 11.00am and once some of the detail had been sorted out we were able to start the first events. In the U10 group we realised that we had just 7 participants and the first event was the Taplin Relay which required four Nippers per team. When we explained that the swim was WAAAAY out to the two buoys and back then the body board section would be the same there was a bit of a pause before we convinced our team that we would be fielding two teams with one member having to do two disciplines. The U12s and U14’s had no such trouble as they have some wonderfully capable swimmers and boarders. Fortunately the Plett surf did not let us down and it was reasonably flat and calm throughout the Carnival.
I promised our younger team members that I would be with them the whole time so ended up doing quite a bit of water work that afternoon. And, by the way, the sea temperature was not as warm as it will be in Durban later next year! But in the end we did our thing and, much to the coach’s delight and pride, both U10 teams finished the Taplin Relay. We then moved on to the Flags section where the U10’s were much more comfortable and we had a good number in the finals. Poor young Marion was the only girl in the U10 squad but she certainly held her own doing almost every possible event that there was.
That afternoon we managed to complete the Taplin relay, the Flags heats, the individual Body Board event, the individual Swim event, the individual Beach Sprints heats, the Malibu relay, the Beach Sprints Relay heats and the Body Board Relay. This is a huge number of events for any Nipper and by the end of the day (16.30) everyone was quite exhausted. The day had remained overcast and cool and so we had the weather on our side.
Someone had booked supper at the fish restaurant near to Castleton and we headed off there for supper. A group of parents had stayed at the beach restaurant to watch both 15’s and 7’s rugby and by the time the arrived at supper they had already had a fair share of enjoyment. It was a stunning evening and we sat outside together with a table full of U14s at one table and U12s at another. The rest of the U12’s were having themselves a ball at Castleton. The vibe amoungst both the adults and the youngsters was something to experience.
Sunday morning we were up early and at the beach shortly after 07.00am. Ant had said we should start the first event at 08.00. The first event of the day would be the long run starting with the U10 girls. Our lone representative, Marion, was nowhere to be seen. Andrew must have decided to sleep in a bit. The run of 800m started without her. Then when the girls were already half way in their run the Jonas’ family arrived. Marion was not to be left out and she started the run all on her own. The amazing thing to see was the way the Summies U14’s ran in with her at the end. I think that it was more than just Barbara who felt quite choked up with emotion seeing the support that Summies gives to their team. Marion’s effort scored points for the Summies U10 team.
Our U10 boys took off at a sprint but then the distance was a bit too much for them: we need to work on this for future. The U12 girls were next and we saw Ally sprint off in front. In fact it was quite funny to see the look on her face of: “What am I doing here in front?” Well she held her own to the turn and then was overtaken but a slight young girl. Despite efforts from rivals to run ahead of her, Ally managed to stay in second place to the end. It was about now that I realised that she is no longer my little girl but a real tough young lady who can hold her own at any event that Nippers can throw at her. The U12 boys and the both groups in the U14’s did very well and this set the scene for the rest of the day. There was a bit of a scare after the U12 boys finished in that Jonathan N collapsed and his parents took him home early to make sure that there was not more that needed attention. I believe that he is back on his feet again and will be back at Summerstrand as soon as he can.
We went through the Run Swim Run, Beach sprint relay finals, Malibu board individual, Beach sprint individual finals, Iron Nipper and finally the Flags finals. The U12 boys was quite a sight as we had 9 out of 10 boys in Summies kit. Flags is, to me, one of the toughest events; as this is an elimination event. And the Nippers know that at any time they may be eliminated in front of a group of parents and peers. But this is what builds character in our children and we can be as proud of them if they are eliminated in the very first round as if they make it through to the final two.
Today had been sunny and as we sat watching our young champions doing their thing at flags I would feel the sun on my legs. I knew that I would suffer the next day. But the joy of being on the beach and in the sea and the wonderful enjoyment that we get out of being with a group of Nippers would far outweigh any pain. The carnival ended at about 15.30 after we had loaded the boards and kit back into the trailer.
The final results?
U10 U12 U14
1 Plett SS SS
2 KB KB KB
3 SS Plett Plett
Top boy Matt McGillivray Kurt V Staden
Top girl Christie Vaughan Lauren Billson
So well done Summerstrand. You were first overall and held up your title as East Cape Champs! The U10’s may have not ended up first in their group but they contributed to the overall result and we are very proud of them for what they achieved over these two days. Especially their participation in the sea events.
Parents: if this was your first Carnival: we hope that you have enjoyed it and will be back on the beach to support your Nipper as often as possible. Should you wish to be part of the adult group in any way there is a need for parent participation as much as there is for the nippers to take part. Please approach your coach or one of us to talk about how you can contribute to the ongoing success of Nippers at Summerstrand.
Our U10 group has a long way to go to be a force to be reckoned with. But we will get there. The U12 group is very strong but have one weakness in that we need two or three more strong swimmers and boarders. The U14’s look like they have already built a strong team in all departments. Recruiting must be something that we all do all the time: talk Nippers to parents and children alike. Particularly if you know that they have a strength either in water or on their feet.
Thanks to Plett for setting it up and to parents and Nippers alike for all your support and encouragement.
Peter
3.12.2008.
NIPPERS
SUMMERSTRAND
12TH OCTOBER 2008.
SUMMERSTRAND NIPPERS: NEWSLETTER
We are really back into the season.
Today we had a huge turnout from existing Nippers as well as a wonderful response to the work of Deon and others to promote Nippers for the new season.
Shareen, Andrew, Marius, Roger Lightening and I coached the U10’s and Micro Nippers. Shareen had 6 boys last week. This week we had 8 girls and about 14 boys. And they were really very keen once they got into the swing of the game. The morning started off with a stunning display from the whales and the dolphins as they helped to add something special to the morning at Summerstrand.
We started the U10’s and Micro Nippers off with a bit of running in the shallows and then did a bit of a warm up away from their parents.
Once they were starting to feel as if they belonged to a team we played a game of fetch the balls and put them into baskets. And in no time at all they were running in and out of the surf as if this was the most natural thing to do. We put them on body boards for a short while. This allowed the first timers to become accustomed to the boards.
We then had a bit of a relay event including running into the surf.
We finished the morning off with Flags and we can already identify a few of the youngsters who will be next year’s stars.
Claire and Charmaine had prepared some Hot Dogs and Ice Creams. Once we had the Nippers really good and tired we sent them off to enjoy a bit of a treat. Being in the back rooms of Nippers is really hard work. Thank you ladies for what you do here.
The Under 12’s were led by Deon, Alex, Hannes and I think had about 30 Nippers. The coaches were not at all soft with this group and soon had them out on Malibu boards and swimming around the buoys. Deon reports that there were at least 6 of the 10 newcomers who had never been that deep into the sea before. “It is really encouraging to be able to be part of the journey that these young people are taking into a life of beach surf proficiency.” Hannes commented: “We are going to have a few great sprint teams for the new season”.
The Under 14’s were coached by Brian, Carmell, Lauren and Varrin. Varrin coached the 6 newcomers while Brian handled the more experienced group of 12.
In total we had about 70 Nippers on the beach this Sunday.
It was great to see previous U14’s, who have now moved on to Juniors, assisting all round. They were seen to be active in the club house as well as on the beach. Thanks to them.
Thank you to the parents who were there today. You have made a wonderful decision to bring your children to the beach. Personally I can think of nothing better for a young person than to develop a healthy respect and yet an ability to overcome a fear of the surf. Two hours of beach fun is one of the best ways your child can spend a Sunday morning.
We hope to see you again next week. Please note that while the weather was great today, it is not always the case. But you will find coaches there every Sunday. 11.00am to 13.00pm.
We should have a program for the upcoming carnivals soon and will pass this information to you as soon as possible.
Level Tests: Before a Nipper is allowed to take part in a competition (competitions in Nippers are known as Carnivals) the youngster has to undergo a level test. This test comprises answering a few simple questions which we will coach the Nippers on in advance. They then complete a run swim run. We do this on Hobie beach and it is well supervised by coaches and safety officers. Parents have to supply us with a copy of the Nippers’ Birth Certificate as well as a signed indemnity form. New parents please hand these into Claire as soon as possible so that we can book a level test.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
HOW TO HAVE A "HAPPIER NEW YEAR?"
Maybe you have heard the words Happy New Year a few times these past two days?
So how do we go about having a Happier New Year?
Here are some suggestions that may apply to your life. And if they do; then take out one or two, write them down and take action. Nothing gets done if you don’t make a conscious effort. Changed behaviour is difficult at first but soon becomes habit.
Focus on your blessings in life.
Discuss your problems with God, your family and your friends.
Then leave them alone.
Tell those around you to stop you every time you start moaning about stuff.
Work out action plans for doing things that bring you joy.
PRASAK --- Practice Random and Senseless Acts of Kindness.
Forgive those who you consider to have wronged you – and then tell them that you want to reestablish a friendship.
Work hard at being a good family member.
Work hard at your place of employment
Work hard at being a good community member
Work hard on your health.
Become more of a servant and less of a controller
Take out a calendar or a diary and plan for fun activities,
Children don’t care about clean rooms; they remember days on the beach building sandcastles.
Spend time with children as a child not as an adult.
Start saying ‘Yes’ rather than ‘No’ when a child asks you something.
Pay up accounts and save a few rand every month.
Do not open one new account nor take out a loan for one whole year: cut up your cards.
Laugh more than you did last year.
Allow yourself to wobble --- become a little less stiff and more of a loose person.
Smile, compliment people, shake hands and greet everyone.
So how do we go about having a Happier New Year?
Here are some suggestions that may apply to your life. And if they do; then take out one or two, write them down and take action. Nothing gets done if you don’t make a conscious effort. Changed behaviour is difficult at first but soon becomes habit.
Focus on your blessings in life.
Discuss your problems with God, your family and your friends.
Then leave them alone.
Tell those around you to stop you every time you start moaning about stuff.
Work out action plans for doing things that bring you joy.
PRASAK --- Practice Random and Senseless Acts of Kindness.
Forgive those who you consider to have wronged you – and then tell them that you want to reestablish a friendship.
Work hard at being a good family member.
Work hard at your place of employment
Work hard at being a good community member
Work hard on your health.
Become more of a servant and less of a controller
Take out a calendar or a diary and plan for fun activities,
Children don’t care about clean rooms; they remember days on the beach building sandcastles.
Spend time with children as a child not as an adult.
Start saying ‘Yes’ rather than ‘No’ when a child asks you something.
Pay up accounts and save a few rand every month.
Do not open one new account nor take out a loan for one whole year: cut up your cards.
Laugh more than you did last year.
Allow yourself to wobble --- become a little less stiff and more of a loose person.
Smile, compliment people, shake hands and greet everyone.
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