As holidays quieten evreything down, the hard work starts

Merry Christmas! It's almost upon us and who can believe it.
For those of us who choose the Dusi as our main race of the year, the Christmas break means the hard work really has started.
From my own perspective, the race is looking a bit uncertain this year.  With Ant Stott out of the race injured and currently walking around in a moon boot, and myself currently without a partner, I really am not sure what is going to happen in February.
Thinking about who will win the Unlimited Dusi, I'd say its a 3 horse race. Hank McGregor is paddling with Len Jenkins. If Len gets fit, they'll be difficult to compete with. The other 2 crews in the frame are defending champs Andy Birkett and Jason Graham, and Mike Mbanjwa and Eric Zondi, both of whom will need to make the most of their running on day 1. Shaun Rubenstein may well also be i with a shout depending on who he paddles with.
On the training side, I have to say I am actually enjoying feeling fitter again and getting up to run in the bush in the mornings. Somehow trail running is just way more enjoyable than pounding pavement!
Before we all get to the Dusi however, there is the Global Trader Drak Challenge- and with all the rain, conditions in the Umzimkulu have been awesome. Hopefully it rains in the week before the race so we can all have some more fun!
McGregor, Jenkins, Shaun Rubenstein, Grant van der Walt and Brandon van der Walt should all race that one out at the front.
Till Jan, Have a Merry Christmas and train hard!

LandRover 50 Miler likely to have good water levels

This weekend sees the KZN river season kick into high gear with the (more than) LandRover Durban 50 Miler.
The reason I say 'more than' is that the "paddlers race" has gone out the window and is being run over the 1st 2 days of the Dusi course, making it around 90Km in length! That means running the Pine tree route on Campbells and Guinea Fowl on Day 1. While organisers are trying to keep paddlers in the river as much as possible (the run over finger neck and cabbage tree is out of bounds), this will make the 2 days of the race the longest 2 days of racing in the season for most paddlers.
Of most interest will be to see who is in the boat with Hank McGregor? While all other Dusi contending combinations should be out showing their teeth, news still hasn't broken about who will partner Hank since Ant Stott's injury enforced withdrawal.
The water is expected to be at a reasonably good level with all the rains filling the river already, a dam release due, and more rain expected on fri. Most novices will be shaking in their paddling shoes, while the more experienced will be itching to get on a full river.
Bring it on I say! Although the prospect of being in a K1 doesn't fill me with joy... especially after a bout of bronchitis has had me laid low from training for almost 2 weeks.
Think I'm going to be a bit stiff and sore by Sunday evening...

Dusi Legend Stott forced out of this season's race

The Unlimited Dusi 2012 is going to be missing one of its perennial favourites this February.  Having never finished any lower than 2nd since any of the Dusi's he has entered since 1998 (apart from pulling out due to a broken ankle in 2003) Ant Stott has been struggling with an Achilles tendon injury since August, and has been forced to take the difficult decision to rest rather than keep trying to train through the injury.  With the extreme demands of Dusi training looming, and the fact that there has been no sign of improvement despite treatment, it has become obvious that a prolonged rest is the only option.
With only 12 weeks to go before the cannon at Camps drift sounds to set off A batch on Camps Drift, this makes the chances of being fit enough to race for a win highly unlikely and Ant has taken a tough decision.  His prospective partner, Hank McGregor, is now looking for a someone to fill the slot vacated by the injured Stott.  
Although many would dream of partnering him, at this late stage in the partner search most top paddlers are already committed, and Hank is not left with many options.  Will we see a return of Len Jenkins to competitive racing, or will Hank find an unknown joker to team up with?
Either way, next weekend's 50 Miler should give a good indication of what combinations will be giving the big race in Feb a good crack.

The Unlimited Dusi 2012 build up..

This weekend sees the start of Dusi season! The Unlimited Ozzie Gladwin kicks off the 1st of the Dusi style races, where portaging your boat becomes almost as important as paddling.
It will also mark the unveiling of potential Dusi partnerships and will start to substantiate the rumours that have been flying around about partnerships.
It is already well known that defending Unlimited Dusi Champs Andy Birkett and Jason Graham will again be teaming up for the season, while Mike Mbanjwa and Eric Zondi in combination will be the darlings of the valley.  Ant Stott and Hank McGregor will also be teaming up for this weekend's race, a team that will be very difficult to beat. If they decide to stay together and race Dusi, there will seldom have been a crew with a bigger reputation.  Despite rumours that are flying around amongst the canoeing fraternity, I have it on good authority that the partnership remains unconfirmed for the big race in Feb.
A bit behind those big guns, Steve Cohen and I will be teaming upin our Eric's Canoes sponsored boat. We are hoping to hang on to the coat tails of some of the fast Dusi crews and will be trying hard for a top 10. As far as Dusi goes... Steve and his wife have twins due at the end of the month, so I'm praying for the Cohen twins to be the easiest new borns ever, or else I'm still shopping for a partner.

Daredevils Running!

Well Friday 4th November 2011 is a day in my personal history book... 1st time I've lined up for a run in a speedo, and only a speedo.
About 300 men, actually mostly boys (all over the age of 21) lined up on Collegians field this morning in red sponsored speedos to take a leisurely run through the peak hour traffic for testicular and prostate cancer awareness.

Thanks to Etana insurance and all the other sponsors for all the little extras they provided.
Hopefully the money donated will make a difference.  Don't worry, no more speedos till Midmar Mile next year.
For the record, Chris Muller (kneeling down on the right- yes that's him dressed in a fireman's hat, Austin Powers style crotch hair, a handlebar 'tache and "racing" sunglasses) took the win, and I managed to sneak in 3rd.  Getting caught up racing a fun run... it's that competitive spirit I guess!

World Marathon Champion!

Hank McGregor is a World Champion again!

Hank McGregor crosses the line in Singapore earlier today, with no-one even on his wave!

Never has the blue ribbon event of this prestigious event been so utterly and completely dominated by an athlete.

After 2 laps he had a minute lead- that's unheard of in the sport! It's like Alberto Contador making a break in the early stages of the Tour De France, a race favourite is never allowed to break and would have been chased down mercilessly.
And they did make the effort to chase him down... eventually a lead bunch of 7, including Hank and SA team mate Shaun Rubenstein, fought it out in the final stages. Hank broke at the last portage, taking a Spanish paddler and a Czech with him.  His choice of a boat with an overstern rudder (as opposed to the notoriously delicate, but more popular, understern variety) proved a tactical masterstoke, as he could drag his craft on the portages without fear of damaging his steering.
He then dominated the end sprint to win GOLD! Shaun Rubenstein also had a awesome race to finish 4th.
All news courtesy of friends on twitter by the way... The ICF site was (and is still at time of writing) rather lacking information on the race.
Well done guys.
Lets hope the K2's have similar news tomorrow.
I will load pics as soon as they make their way over the net. (Thanks Lynne Hauptfleisch)

Putting the hurt in on the portage, dragging his overstern rudder. A masterful stroke of tactics by Hank McGregor

Proudly South African!

World Marathon Champs- Canoeing and a bit of Fish 2011

Hank McGregor and Grant van der Walt in Saltpans rapid last weekend
Last weekend's Hansa Fish River Canoe Marathon victory by Hank McGregor and Grant van der Walt may have been widely expected, but it signifies a rare occurence. After they showed a clean pair of heels to the rest of the field at SA K2 River Champs, Hank now holds every available SA Canoeing and Surfski title in both singles and doubles.

The question on everyone's lips... can he be beaten?

Hank has been on an awesome run of form over recent months and he now travels to Singapore to take on the World Marathon Championships next weekend.

He is definately in with a very loud shout of winning, and will line up alongside teammate Shaun Rubenstein in the K1 event.  Shaun is returning from the sprint discipline, so he is very fit and not at all short on speed. If Shaun can cover the distance, he will also be a good bet for at least a medal.  I certainly hope that the 2 Saffas sprint it out for Gold and Silver!

Both paddlers have won the title before and are hungry to taste victory again.

Other contenders will be Ant Stott and Graeme Solomon in the K2. The crew are confident and hope to steer clear of the technical issues that marred their challenge last year.

In the U23 K1 event, all are hoping that Cam Schoeman will recover from a back injury in time to mount a strong challenge- a week ago his facebook status read "not enjoying being flat on my back".  If he recovers, the 2008 Senior K2 champ should have a good chance.

Best of luck to all who are travelling on Sunday.

Till then, Ant Stott will be visiting the Chirosport office frequently making sure everything is ready to go.

30th Hansa Fish River Canoe Marathon 2011- for KZN!

This weekend sees the annual migration of the speices known as "Canoeist" to Cradock for the 30th edition of the Fish River Canoe Marathon.

Team Stu X2, Stu Waterworth and Stu Clifton at the recent Cafe Fish race

This year the race hosts SA K2 River Champs, with Stu and his namesaked partner Stu Waterworth representing the KZN team alongside teammates Hank McGregor and Grant van der Walt.
Hank and Grant start favourites to reach Cradock ahead of all challengers, but there will be a fierce tussle for top positions.  There are several top local crews as well as 4 international crews on the start list.  In fact the only top paddlers missing are the few who have chosen to focus on World Marathon Champs in 2 weeks.
Team Stu are hoping to race for a top 10 position, but with a strong field lining up at Grassridge dam, its gonna be very tough racing for a Gold Medal.
The ladies race is wide open with the withdrawal of Michele Eray due to injury, leaving her would be partner Robyn Kime searching for someone to paddle with.
Stu (Clifton that is...) leaves on wed for Cradock.
Keith's Flyover and Cradock Weir, here we come
As a result the practice will be closed for a few days, but don't worry. Doors will be open again on Monday!
Check facebook and twitter for updates on friday and saturday.

Kona IronMan Hawaii

A while ago I mentioned that training partner and friend Justin Hand had qualified for the biggest IronMan event of the year in Hawaii.
Well this weekend he is off on his trip  to what is effectively the World Champs of IronMan Triathlon.
I speak from experience (of his track sessions) when I say that he is boasting some super-human fitness.
I doubt there is any kind of athlete in any other sport that needs to spend as many hours a week in training as an Ultra-triathlete.  The fact that you need to train 3 disciplines for an ultra-distance event requires huge commitment.
Good luck Justin, we look forward to hearing the news.

Bridgitte Hartley is London bound for 2012!

The Queen of South African Sprint kayaking, Bridgitte Hartley has again booked her place at the Olympic Games.  At last weeks World Championships, the pressure was intense with SASCOC demanding "medal potential" in order to justify sending athletes to London next year.

When she missed qualification to the "A" final by the narrowest of margins, there were tears.  But the next day a very motivated Bridgitte scorched down the course in the 500m "B" final to win the race in a World Record time of 1:46,90 in a time that would have won the "A" final by a tenth of a second. Szeged seems to be a favourite place for Bridgitte, having won a World Cup Gold medal there in 2009.

Congratulations Bridgitte! I can't even imgagine how big that smile must be. I am very glad to have helped you get there. Even if it was only a little bit, I'm claiming it!

Singapore ahoy!

Success! Last weekend Ant Stott and Graeme Solomon raced their way to the World Marathon Champs in Singapore.

Hank McGregor and Grant van der Walt, lead Ant Stott and Graeme Solomon to the take out. No space, no problem! Just be quick

The racing was pretty intense with things coming down to an end-sprint where Hank and Grant took line honours from Ant and Graeme.

Top 2 are off to World Champs so its mission accomplished! Pity I can't be packed in a suit case and go with.

Check this video taken at the last put in

SA Marathon Champs!

This weekend sees all the hotshots of South African Canoeing lining up at Shongweni for SA Marathon Champs.

Word around the block is that Hank McGregor will be out racing and after being snubbed by the national selectors last year, he feels he has a point to prove. Having recently won the Berg and the Avon (both over very long distances) there is a feeling he wants to prove he can win SA's despite having these races in his body. He was left out of the mix for the World Champs last year depsite having won SA's due to his unwillingness not compete in events like Berg.

I feel he starts as the strong favourite in the K1 race.

Ant and Graeme swiftly into the portage at KZN Champs 2 weeks ago

In the doubles Hank teams up with Grant van der Walt again, and they will race U23 pair Brandon van der Walt and Cam Schoeman and the experienced pair of Ant Stott and Graeme Solomon.

The race for the podium should be between these 3 boats. Its difficult to pick a winner. The racing is going to be red hot at Shongweni this weekend.

Not too sure what ladies are lining up, but Michele Eray is overseas so who knows?

Good luck to Ant and Graeme. Hope all the "body work" in the Chirosport office pays off.

Also a word of luck to the Boks this weekend in Durbs. Go BOKKE! I'll be there watching and am wearing my jersey this Bok friday

Lets see what the "A" Squad can do?

Yes, we're talking Rugby! After a dismal away leg of the Tri-Nations, lets hope Pieter de Villiers has a few more things up his sleeve.

With more 1st choice players available, things can only get better.  In fact... that's a song, and could probably be the theme song of PDivvy's stint as Bok coach.

We can only hope to be singing his praises at the end of the World Cup, because its not looking that way at the moment. Whatever the grand plan is, I certainly can't see it taking shape yet. The All Blacks (as always going into a World Cup) look like world beaters.

Come on Bokke!

KZN Marathon Champs... a long paddle on flat water

The front bunch accelerating away shortly after the start

This weekend I entered a proper international format canoe marathon for the 1st time.  Hoping to gain early season fitness, I learnt a few things... 30Km is a very long way on flat water, blisters afflict hands that haven't done mileage, and to make sure your equipment is sound before you start!

At the sharp end, Cam Schoeman outsprinted Brandon van der Walt in the singles, with Shaun Griffin in bronze position. In the doubles, Cam and Brandon teamed up to outsprint Ant Stott and Graeme Solomon in a rather interesting race where the 2 boats were the class of the field.

I had a long training day out in the singles, while in the doubles, some rudder issues mant that our steering wasn't exactly flash and resulted in a rather leaky boat as the rudder worked loose during the race. Result... a DNF!

The bigshots will line up in 2 weeks for SA champs. Good luck to Ant and Graeme.

TDF armchair sport over, time for some Marathon paddling

This years Tour de France has been awesome to watch.  To see Contador under pressure thanks to some 1st week crashes, and then going all out to gain back time in the Alps, simply ripping the race apart as he buried himself, made for some of the best watching I have ever seen. Andy Schleck tagging along in the hopes of gaining enough time as a time trial buffer had everyone guessing as to whether he could hold yellow.  Ultimately the carefully calculated strategy of Cadel Evans came through. Well done to him and the BMC team.

After a post Comrades rest period, enjoying some armchair sport, the time has come for me to regain some fitness.  With the local river racing season just starting to chug into life, the flatwater Marathon paddling season is in full swing. KZN champs at the end of July and SA champs is 2 weeks later.  While I am using the racing to get back in the swing of things, several of the big guns will be out racing for spots on the SA team to World Champs this year.

Ant Stott racing to victory in this weekend warm up race at Shongweni

After some time off due to injury, Chirosport's very own Ant Stott will again be teaming up with Graeme Solomon for a spot in the doubles. Ant's former Doubles partner and 2008 World Marathon Champ, Cam Scoeman, will be teaming up with former Junior World Champ Brandon van der Walt, as well as both racing K1's.  It will be interesting to see whether the likes of Hank McGregor, Grant van der Walt and Len Jenkins will race on the flatwater, as those selected for the World's team will have to sacrifice racing the Fish this year.  Also of interest is whether national Sprint squad members not chosen to go to World Champs will be out racing the marathon.  I'm not too sure which of the ladies will be out racing at Shongweni, but would expect Michelle Eray and Jen Hodsen to be there.

Fox King of Dirt MTB race

Colin Mercer cresting one of the final obstacles during the race

I don't normally write about races I've done, but this one was rather special.  The Fox King of Dirt was held for the 1st time this year at Sierra Ranch near Mooi River.  The course was superb! Kilometer after kilometer of awesome single track.  From fast and flowing, to up hill pedalling, to slow and technical, you name it this race had every type of fun MTB terrain to challenge competitors.
For a 1st attempt, race organisers deserve congratulations. It usually takes races years to build a course like that. I will be back next year, even without all the cycling jersey giveaways and lucky draw prizes.
For the record, my father-in-law, Colin Mercer won the Grand masters category, and my wife Claire was the 3rd sub-vet lady (cycling age groups start vet age groups a little youger than most other sports)

Windhoek Berg River Canoe Marathon

Durban ace Hank McGregor will be aiming to make history this year as he attempts to win his 8th Berg River Canoe Marathon. The 50th edition of the race has attracted the biggest entry ever, and every paddler will be glad to know that good water is expected for the whole 244Km, 4 day paddle from Paarl to Velddrift. 
Organisers have cleared many tree blocks, and a dam release will make things a lot more pleasurable than in some years, but added weirs make things more challenging in places.
While Hank is clear favourite in the Men's race, the ladies race will be a duel between Michelle Eray and Robyn Kime, with Jen Hodsen likely to fill the 3rd podium step.
I will try and put results up on my twitter feed, but race organisers haven't been on the ball with results so far??

Toti 69'er

This weekend saw a bit of a change of sports as I helped out my cycling club by marshalling at the TOTI 69'er.  I'm not really much of a roadie, but those guys sure did pass me going pretty quickly. My marshalling point was within 1 Km of both the start and finish. Here's a pic of the leaders coming round the 2nd to last corner and gunning it down the last hill.

For results check the Amanzimtoti Cycle Club link on the right of this page.
Well done to my Dad for putting the race together

Hank is Champ!

Hank Mcgregor hits the beach at La Mercy. Unchallenged!

Well the most notable thing about the Dunlop Surfski World Cup was the lack of weather! Although the swell was pretty sizeable, the howling westerly did not arrive, making for a hard paddle up the coast for most with only the fastest paddlers being able to pick up help from the moving ocean.
Hank McGregor triumphed again and even had the luxury of a moment to compose himself before running up the beach to the line.
Matt Bouman overhauled Dawid Mocke in the late stages of the race for 2nd while Dawid completed the podium.
Michelle Eray won the ladies race comfortably from Nikki Mocke.  Apparently Michelle put 7 minutes on some fairly competitive male paddlers between Umhlanga and La Mercy!
The race will be remembered for the thrills and spills at the finish.  The tricky break at La Mercy made it difficult to exit a ski gracefully. The shorebreak pounding onto bare sand broke many boats and had a high proportion of paddlers scrambling up and down the beach grabbing their equipment. Any photographers on the beach would have snapped some comical shots.

With the Discovery Sunglass hut Surfski series drawing to a close in the next few weeks, attention will soon turn towards the "flatwater" marathon season, and then preparations for the 30th Hansa Fish!

Dunlop Surf Ski World Cup... in the hands of the weather gods

This weekend sees the biggest Surfski race, in the planet's Surfski mecca- Durban.
The likes of Hank McGregor, Dawid Mocke, Matt Boumann, Sean Rice, Tom Schilperoot, Barry Lewin and many more will be lining up to compete for the prestigious title.

Hank and Matt, always paddle to paddle, racing it out recently

I know for a fact that big Matt Bouman wants the title badly, having missed out narrowly last year in a sprint up the beach and having come 2nd on more than one occasion.
Hank the tank is flying.  Recently crowned SA K1 river champion and with a few hectic weeks of competition ahead, he is well prepared and will be difficult to beat.
"The daddy" Dawid Mocke has the sea knowledge and racing experience to keep his nose upfront, and he will doubtless be in the mix.
No idea who of the overseas contingent might be in Durban, but my bet is on Hank, Matt and Dawid to fill the podium in the Mens race.  Michelle Eray and Nikki Mocke will doubtless fight out the women's crown.

Strangely for Durban, the weather looks like having the biggest say.  Usually enjoying mild winters with gentle winds and clean, moderate swell, this weekend the winter south-westerly is scheduled to blast through at 35 knots.  Paddlers will be hoping it doesn't blow that strong during the race itself, and the forecast has the wind dropping to 15-20 knots during the race.  Either way, the wind is whipping up some huge swell and heights of over 3,5m are predicted.  This will make the race an exciting downwind ride and coming in through the surf tricky. Spectators may see some spectacular carnage on the beach regardless of what condition dependant finish venue is chosen.  I wouldn't be surprised to see the likes of Oscar Chalupsky, Herman Chalupsky and Mark Lewin high up in the results.  The conditions will make it tough and the experienced heads will shine through.

Good luck paddlers. I'll be watching the show from the beach!

Dr. and Mrs. Clifton 11/6/11



The wedding party

Claire Mercer is now Mrs. Claire Clifton! My beautiful bride and I were married on 11 June and we had a fantastic fun day.  A massive thank you to everyone who helped us on the day.

Tying the knot!

The big day is almost here! This saturday the 11th of June, I will be marrying my super special fiance Claire.

Out on a Regent's training run before 2 Oceans

Plans have all been made and its just the last few little things that need doing.
At 2 pm the band will strike up "here comes the bride" and Claire will walk down the aisle.
We'll be off on honeymoon for next week.
Only 2 more sleeps!

Comrades day 2011

Personally, all I can say is what a tough day.  I finished thanks to the help an support of my fiance Claire, who was by my side from Alverstone to Umlaas Rd on a bicycle and then on foot from there to the finish, and also to a lady from Vryheid AC who knew the right words when I was about to pack it in approaching Cato Ridge.
After having strapped everybody up on saturday afternoon, watching the Sharks win and having a last solid meal I headed to bed feeling good.  When I woke up on Sunday morning, my body was just having one of those bad days.  My 1st step was difficult, and I realised very early that my 9 hour goal would have to wait till another year.  I started cramping in my left hamstring before the 25Km mark and struggled with it all the way to PMB.  My left quad wasn't to happy either and was very sore most of the day.
By the 38km to go mark I was virtually at a standstill, and was ready to jump in a car.  The inaccesibility of that part of the route meant that wasn't possible, so I stopped for some strapping, choked down 2 panados and decide to walk to Cato Ridge, where I had made my mind up my day would end.  That's when the "Vryheid lady" passed me!  Thank you Sanet Maasdam, every word you said to me lifted my feet towards the finish.

Almost the lowest moment of the day outside Cato Ridge. Barely able to move forward. Pain and cramp everytime my left leg hit the floor- note strapping! Hadn't yet taken panados or met my "Vryheid lady"

The pain eased a bit and I was able to run on the flats, so I carried on a bit, and then I carried on a bit more and then a bit more. From Camperdown to Umlaas Rd, Claire had to take an alternative route, but my "Vryheid lady" Sanet was around me quite a bit and kept me going.  Time began to pass more quickly and by the time I got to Umlaas Rd (20km to go) I had made my mind up to grit my teeth and get to the finish.

I really enjoyed walking up Little Polly's- the site of many of my childhood Comrades up-run experiences in the days of Fordyce domination, and then walked up Polly Shorts with Claire, my aunt Solly, uncle Brian and cousin Amy. 

From there I knew I could get my medal safely even with a lot of enforced walking and was quite emotional as I hobbled down through Alexandra Park.  The lift you feel when you hit that grass is amazing and it felt like I flew round the Oval. 

Medal no. 2 in the bag.  It will be one that I always treasure, because I very nearly didn't get it. 10 hours 17min and it was the longest day of my life.

Didn't think I'd get there, and it was worth all the struggle

Well done to Bruce, who finished just behind me.  I didn't think you'd get there on the injury limited training you'd done.  Awesome effort.

Thanks to all the people on the side of the road who had drinks for me, shouted for me and every one of the other nutters on the road.  Sorry if I was a bit grumpy.  There were times when it took everything just to keep moving toward Maritzburg.

I'll load some pics when I have them

Sunday is D-day

Doesn't really seem like it somehow, but on Sunday morning I'll be outside Durban city hall singing Nkosi Sikelele, then listening to Chariots of Fire, then a cock will crow and the gun will sound... then I'm gonna follow the crowd towards PMB!

Hope it doesn't hurt too much on Monday :)
Prodigal is going for Gold, the rest of us just would really like to get there.
Good luck to Bruce, Candice, Craig, Lisa, Glenn, Bridget and all the other people who have taken on the challenge.

A little motivation from the Sports Science Institute
‎"I know why this is all necessary," says Prof Tim Noakes "what common bond unites all Comrades runners. It is the need to look for the mountains in life. Skill, you see, is not our requirement, nor has your race got anything to do with winning or losing. These are the spoils of other lesser games, unable to transport you to the places we have been."

One week till Comrades

The standard answer is "don't ask" or "I don't know".  That's the answer you get from a Comrades runner right now when you ask them how they are feeling about the race.
With such a short time to go, we all feel nervous and unsure if we have done enough, and are anticipating a mountain of vasbyt on the 29th of May.

Prodigal is confident of his potential to get gold this year after his niggles have all eased. After getting 11th last year, he really deserves it.

Most of us will be standing on the start line, just hoping to get any colour medal in PMB!

Wednesday is voting day!

Tomorrow is your day to have a say!
Unhappy with corrupt municipalities, pot holes, long grass and rubbish in public areas.
Tired of municipal worker strikes...
Anyone else noticed that the beachfront promenade, laid so hastily prior to the World Cup less than 12 months ago, is being dug up and relaid again... because they didn't plan properly in the 1st place. Who pays?  We do!
Local government is where the power lies, and we have the power to get the goons who are more concerned with changing rod names than anything that really matters out of the Etekwini Municipality!

Political rant over, I promise. Sport and health is far more interesting

Wouter Weylandt RIP

Wouter won stage 3 on the Giro last year. This year he passed from this world

The cycling world is paying trip to Leopard-Trek rider, Wouter Weylandt.
The 26-year-old's life came to a sudden end after he crashed on the twisting descent of the Bocco mountain pass around 25km from the finish line on Monday's third stage, which ended in Rapallo.
His family urged his team to stay in the race, but they have withdrawn along with Walter's best friend Tyler Farrar.
Wouter's girlfriend is pregnant with his baby, due to be born in September.
His official website is marked with his picture, and a comment saying Farewell, and wishing condolences.
Many have commented that he died doing what he loved.  A sad fact that by partcipating in sport, you sometimes take risks than can have such consequences.
Most of us ignore these risks daily, for the love of sport, and it is sad when one is unlucky to be hurt so seriously.
To his family, friends, teammates and colleagues, my heart goes out to you

2 Oceans and Cape Town Easter

What a busy trip!
My fiance Claire finished 2 Oceans in 5:55 in her 1st Ultra- a well earned bronze medal:)

Claire in Hout Bay looking strong

Justin Hand did a 4:20 in his Rockports!!! Madness. Apparently he does have a few blisters. 
It was great to see a South African finally win again. Well done George Ntshiliza. Hopefully you have enough prize money to pay lobola! 
I did 1:30 for the 21, and then ran the last 17Km with Claire (and they wouldn't let me enter the 56km cos I couldn't qualify, so much for not being fit enough... thanks organisers. I am fit!)
We climbed the mountain, in not great weather, spent the night up there, then hiked all around the top and down in glorious weather the next day.

Dave, Claire and me with camera in the secret valley on top of Table Mountain

Then just for good measure, Claire, Dave, Annabelle (Claire's brother and his wife) and I rode the 2 Oceans route in reverse on wednesday.


Dave, Claire and Annabelle at the top of Chapman's Peak Drive

A lot to fit in on my 1st proper Cape Town holiday trip, and a lot more interseting than boring Comrades training that had to be squeezed in between all the other action.

Only a few more weeks of Comrades prep as raceday approaches.  I will have to get out in my new shoes to wear them in!

Cape Town Ahoy! 2 Oceans time

Well for a change I'm off on holiday for a break over Easter.  My fiance and I are heading down to Cape Town where she is taking on her 1st ultra marathon in the form of this years 2 Oceans.

Our training mates Justin Hand, Gary Babich and John Renwick are running the full 56km in Rockport smart shoes! Apparently they are comfy enough and the boys have got a free trip to the race out of it.  So if they've got to go to a wedding in the afternoon, no need to change shoes!

I'll be doing the 21,1km race because I couldn't squeeze a qualifier in with the canoeing calender.  While we are there, we hope to do a hike up the mountain and sleep in the hut up there- a nice change to the training routine.  Praying for some decent weather.
Happy Easter! He died for YOU.

I'll be back in Durbs and at work on the 28th April

Comrades Gold... possibly? Ironman Hawaii... definately

Prodigal Kumalo is looking good for Gold!  He won the Chatsworth Freedom 52Km Ultra in a time of 3.06 over the weekend and is looking fitter and faster than ever.  In 2009 he led Comrades to the 28km mark. In 2010 he finished 11th after coming through 26Km to go in Kloof in 21st.

I'm really hoping he's able to use his experience gained over the last few years, as well as advice from people like Justin Hand, to make a bid for a Gold this year.  Prodigal himself is hopeful for a top 5!

I'll be behind you all the way at Comrades PK! (probably about 4 hours behind...)

Speaking of Justin Hand, he had an awesome Ironman finishing in 9.46 and running a 3.28 marathon after a 5.09 for 180km bike.  He finished 2nd in his age group and has qualified for Ironman Hawaii.  Justin also trained a squad of about 15 athletes for Ironman with a 100% finish for the squad.  Well done to all of the guys and girls who train with us at the track on tuesdays. We are in awe.

If you need shoes, Prodigal is at the Durban Runner in Glenwood, or Justin at the Durban North Runner on Kensington Dr.  Trust me they both know their stuff.

4:30am mornings

With my paddles and MTB collecting dust, I've been out pounding tarmac and spending most mornings up very early and see the sun rise over the Indian Ocean at least 3 times a week.

View from Fields hill on Sunday morning during a training run

Preparing for Comrades is something definately not to be taken lightly (learnt that lesson the hard way in 2009 when injury limited mileage) and with 7 weeks to go its crunch time. I have got one marathon length run in my legs succesfully, and will be doing a 50Km plus run this week to test whether I've got the up run in me this year.
In the practice I have the usual pre-Comrades aches and pains to deal with and am trying my best to help them back on the road.  One thing that is very obvious is how weak gluteal stabilisers contribute to so many running injuries.  In fact, I think I'm going to write an article for the Regents website about it as soon as I get a chance. Will put up a post about it when I do.
Well done to all those who finished Ironman 2010 down in PE over the weekend.  That medal must mean one heck of a lot. Justin Hand, of the Durban North Runner, did 9h46 and ran a 3.28 marathon after a 180Km bike.  Nice effort!  Finishing 2nd in his age group, that means Justin has qualified himself a slot for Ironman Hawaii. The opportunity of a lifetime

Cricket World Cup... what's that?

Here's a little something I wrote on the 7th of Feb..."And for the 1st time in a few tournaments, I would not rank Australia among the favourites.  A Gary Kirsten lead Indian team along with the unorthodoxy and variety of the Sri Lankans get my vote for final contention."
Man do I wish I'd put a few bob on that prediction!
Still not too sure how much I'm going to be able to watch the game on saturday.  Like many Protea supporters, I've had it up to my neck with yet another wimpering knock out game performance and can't really put up with watching the final knowing that the boys in green are kicking themselves because it is them that should be there facing the Indians. Altogether now... Cough, choke, I mean... agg shame!
So instead I am very happy to take up an invitation to watch the Sharks/ Stormers game on saturday afternoon.  Let's hope the Shark tank delivers a thriller (as long as the team in black wins)
There will always be another World Cup, and another one after that...

Athlete update

A bit of a personal update for a change...
I'm very grumpy about the Proteas implosion at the Cricket World Cup, am buoyant about the Sharks Chaces in the Super 15 and am not exactly sure how committed I am to Comrades training.
It has been really enjoyable to head down to Blue Lagoon for the odd leisurely paddle without feeling the need to thrash it around on the water for hours and hours every week.  The monster of "that fun run" on 29 May hangs very close overhead though. Only 10 weeks of specific training means time is very short, and although a period of rest would be very welcome, the need for mileage means it will have to wait till June.
On the athlete front, I was most disappointed for Ant Stott on Dusi.  He just doesn't seem to have luck on his side this season. A silly swim must have cost him energy on day 2, the day where he is known to make the break. The catalogue of near misses has to end soon for Ant.  Andy Birkett did really well to be with Ant as they came in to Durban and must get credit for having upped his game and outsprinted a World Marathon Champ to win.
Comrades runner, Prodigal Kumalo is flying!  Having won several major events in the last few months, some common sense has prevailed resulting in less pressure from sponsors and Prodigal is now able to focus on Comrades.  Without the need to continually race to please his backers, his training is going very well.  If he performs at Comrades, everyone should get what they are looking for... hopefully that means a top 5 for PK.
New Chirosport athlete Bridgitte Hartley is in the midst of preparations for an Olympic qualification year doing loads of basework and technique as well as working on her biomechanics (that's where I come in...) to help sharpen her up for the racing season which is fast approaching.
The German hurdling squad that were in Durbs during January for a training camp have completed their indoor season and are similarly looking at London 2012 qualification in the summer season ahead.
Haven't heard from beijing Gold medallist Abhinav Bindra for a while.  I was originally scheduled to be heading to India to work with AB in early April, however competitions schedules have put plans on hold for a while.
That's it for now... gotta head into the gym if I am gonna get it done before the grindstone calls again.

Proteas... now is the time

Indeed, now IS THE TIME for Graeme Smith's Proteas to stand up and be counted.
3 wins will mean a World Cup to bring home, and it really is all up to the squad if they want it.  On paper, the boys in green and gold have more than a good chance, they have a great opportunity.
If the right team is selected for each game, we can beat any team we come up against.  However home advantage may strengthen the resolve of Sri Lanka (likely semi opponents) and India (possibly in the final)
As a cricket fan who has watched the Aussies dominate for 15 years, their loss to India confirms their downward spiral. I don't think Ponting will be captain for too much longer.
For us, Kallis and Smith need to find form, and the rest can just keep going as they have until now. Steyn, Morkel, and Tahir can win us the trophy if the batsmen get enough runs.
Good luck boys, we'll be behind you all the way.

Umko done... paddling season done, Now for Comrades (eeek!)

The Stihl Hansa Umkomaas has brought the curtain down on this years competitive river canoeing season in KZN.  Hank McGregor and Brandon van der Walt streaked away to a win, and were the only boat amongst the top 5 to survive a very knarly no. 1 rapid.

Andrew Neal and Stuart Clifton in No. 1... we made it :)

Andy Birkett rounded off his awesome season to finish 2nd with Jason Graham in the back while ex-sprinter Dave Hamilton-Brown and Murray Burgess finished in 3rd.  Shaun Griffin and Mark Mulder came from 6th on day 1 up to 4th at the finish while defending champs Theron and Cruickshanks had an incident filled race to 5th.
With the river at 1,5m Number 1 rapid was at its most difficult level and caused major damage to the boat of Deon Bruss and Ant Stott, who continued on with the aid of duct tape to finish 29th.
The tricky 1,5m level on day 2 did its fair share of damage to boats all through the field, with enough water for big waves and strong flow, but still plenty of rocks in play.
Andrew Neal and I fell victim to a rock in the rapid known as 4 and a half.  Hitting one rock was enough to do damage that forced us to join the likes of Bruss and Stott in having to patch up in order to finish. In fact, we arrived at Josephines bridge in 30th, just behind the race favourites.
The Umko is a river that certainly deserves huge respect. 
Things happen really quickly on the mighty Umko.  For us, from having a shout at a top 10, a rock we couldn't see till it was too late, and then we spent 20 mins on the bank.  For Deon and Ant, no.1 did their chances in.  Many others have similar stories to tell.  Most of all, Tim Platt and Deborah Dick who had abandoned their boat, heard news that the boat was seen floating near no.8.  They got a lift back to the river, found where the boat was, taped it up, climbed in and paddled to Josephines to finish day 2 in 7 and a half hours. Respect!
A mighty river, a mighty load of FUN!

Goodbye paddles... Hello running shoes!
It's only 10 weeks away now, but I'm going to have a go at getting ready for Comrades.

Hansa Stihl Umkomaas... the last hurrah

This weekend its UMKO!  The last big race of the river paddling season.  If you don't paddle, that means a bunch of crazy South Africans paddling canoes originally designed for flat water, down some really big rapids.  To give you an idea, the only rapid on Dusi that compares to Umko is portaged by 95% of Dusi paddlers- Island 1 and 2.
More good news is that there should be some decent water in the river, which should have Umko die hards smiling after last years lowest race in history.

The much vaunted rapids, 5 and 6. Once 2 rapids, made into one really big two step thriller by the floods in 1987 (or so Rob davey tells me)... eeek

The race for victory is set between 3 crews. Ant Stott is riding shotgun behind river legend Deon Bruss.  Hank McGregor has teamed up with Brandon van fer Walt and certainly look like the fastest crew on the water.  Then there is the well established team from JHB of Jacque Theron and Piers Cruikshanks.  If water levels hold, the 3 will very likely be close together (if not in a group) after the day 1 section from Josephines to Riverside.  Then the big numbered rapids on day 2 should decide it.  It's all about no. 1-8!!!
Mishaps aside, the ladies should be taken by Hillary Pitchford and Abby Adie. In fact I don't think any other ladies K2 crews have been brave enough to enter.  That said, Claire Lindsay is a very brave lady indeed to have entered in a K1.  Some old river dogs are saying there might be lots of water... news came through of a big storm near Underberg on Thursday!  If the rain landed in the Polela, that means a big Umko over the weekend. 

Hopefully there aren't to many injuries or anything, cos I'm the medical officer.
Whatever happens rain wise, with the river at 1,6m and rising on fri morning, its going to be a white knuckled, adrenalin filled ride. 
Rob Davey and the organising committee from Kingfisher Canoe Club have made an awesome effort to bring back the spirit of the Umko.  Thanks Rob, Ernoe and team
Just hope there is enough water (but not too much... eeek!)

Cricket World Cup... when does it actually start?

Well if you're like me you must be wondering when this dithering tournament called the World Cup is actually going to start.  With up to a week between games for teams, its hardly been interesting so far.  Let's face it.  How many viewers are actually interested in games between the likes of Bangladesh, Canada, Zimbabwe, the Netherlands and Kenya?? Not many!  These 5 teams are clearly below standard compared to the others and generally make for uninteresting cricket.  In fact I have played in club teams that could beat them.
But finally, after 3 weeks of very little interest, the tournament should finally kick into gear as teams try to make sure of good log positions heading into the quater-finals.
Most teams will be trying to avoid India and Sri Lanka through the knockout phases, and also trying to avoid having to play on dodgy wickets. (like the one in Chennai- which thankfully is not hosting any knock out games)
One thing which has been good is the variety of types of wicket.  Far from the 'road' like wickets that were expected, there have been some turners, the odd bit of grass and only the odd 350+ wicket.
The Proteas play India this Saturday in a big game, however the most important results for our boys at this stage are beat both Ireland (15th Mar) and Bangladesh (19th Mar) comprehensively in the 2 games which follow.  Then we can't slip up as the knock out begins.
Go Proteas, we'll be watching every ball
Lets hope the tournament gets interesting soon

Unlimited Non-Stop Dusi Wrap

Well its over, thank goodness! Everyone is saying it was the toughest Non-stop Dusi ever.
Very little water made for a very tough day for all concerned, especially the heavier paddlers.
Mike Mbanjwa and Eric Zondi won as expected with Thomas Ngidi and Nhlanhla Cele in 2nd and Kwanda Mhlope and Richard Cele in 3rd. 5 out of 6 paddlers on the podium from Martin Dreyer's Change a Life academy - hardly surprising considering they completed most of the route on foot due to the low river conditions.  Man those guys can run! Mark Mulder did well to finish 4th overall in a K1, and must have had an easier day through the technical sections with his much shorter and more manoevureable single.

Stuart, flanked by super seconds Claire Mercer and Andrew Neal on Pine Trees portage just after sunrise

 Most crews were out there for at least an hour longer than expected with the slowest winning time in the 15 year history of the race.  Competitors at the front paddled/ ran passed the water releases twice during the race and were faced with water trickling down the Umgeni.  To add to this, the last 15 Km was strewn with hyacinth blocking the river, sapping energy and strength as boats fought their way to Durban through the weeds.  Stuart and partner Greg Carter-Brown had a good race, finishing up in a hard fought 10th place despite some boat admin caused by their heavy combined weight in the rock strewn river.

Greg Carter-Brown and Stu Clifton hauling out of "Devil's Cauldron" early in the race. As you can see, they really do run through bush in case you were wondering

Thanks to all seconds who fed and watered us all the way from PMB to Durban.
A hearty well done to EVERYONE who finished, or helped a friend finish.
The last paddlers to finish arrived at Blue Lagoon in just under 15 hours at 8:30pm
The Unlimited Non-Stop Dusi 2011 was tougher than Comrades 2010 for sure!