After yesterday’s victory it was back down to earth this morning with an early morning recovery session in the lake at our home, Cables Water Park.
Day 11 – Thursday October 19
We did a few simple exercises and stretches before the usual winner’s breakfast of BBQ cooked sausage, bacon and egg barmcakes.
Shortly after breakfast we made the trip over to Manly once again, but this time it was for another recovery session in the ocean by the way of a surfing lesson.
The instructors at Manly Surf School were excellent and worked their magic as everyone who took part. Players and staff were able to jump up onto their feet and remain balanced for a few seconds at least… however the problems started when they actually left dry land and entered the water.
As the instructors were looking for landmarks for the lads to stay in-between, he pointed to an individual who was flat out on the beach in the distance and explained: “Don’t go past the guy there lying down, he doesn’t look like he’s going anywhere quick.”
To the lads’ amusement it was coach Shaun Ryan who had sneaked off for a snooze!
As much as everyone tried hard, and that is one quality that this group certainly have in abundance, there were only a select few that actually mastered the art.
Matty Foster, Sam Royle and Christian Kellett were a few who managed to ride the waves but best by far was Luke Maloney-Ward who took to the surf like a natural.
Special mentions must go to some of the staff who took part. Craig Richards conquered his fear of water to have a go, Ste Marsh tried too but best of all was Derek Hardman. It was his third lesson and has finally managed to get up onto his feet and ride a wave.
As much fun as the activity was, it certainly was physically demanding and the bus journey home was a bit subdued with some tired lads before our first trip of the tour to the hugely impressive Panthers Leagues club for our evening meal.
Day 11 Gallery
