Team Thule -
Wobble, wobble and then splash someone had just fallen out of their boat at the start of the paddle leg, we were all desperatly trying to maintain balance in our boats before the start, the wet start did not suite everyone, with boat's bumping into each other and a strong wind pushing us around. Then BAAAAA and we are off with everyone aiming for a tight corner, and sorting out positions, with a 2 lap paddle ahead. The first and second buoy was okay but heading from buoy3 back to the start of the second lap was a bit challenging with a rather strong wind and a bit of a swell coming side on, everyone was being very cautious at this crossing which we later learnt got the better of a few people. Thankfully our old K2 was stable and we glided through the 8 km course with me not taking much in on Theewaterskloof Dam only to listen to my partner Russell and sit dead still, to Rob and Brendan's disappointment we did not turn over no matter what they tried.
From the end of the paddle straight into a 22 km MTB route, fast and short climbs great fun with lots of sandy sections, what fun Russell and I had on the MTB route. Coming into the transition with Tatum Prins giving an outstanding commentary, giving the athletes that extra push.
Straight off our bikes into a 8km trail run, holding back as the muscles wanted to say howzit. (we must work on that)
But as we got settled into the run the faster and stronger we became enjoying the trail run and even getting to see a rainbow forming by the dam, thanks Gu for the extra help and the recovery drink at the end.
Result: First placed mixed team
Cheers : Team Thule
