Captivating Nantes

Situated along the picturesque west coast, on the mighty river Loire, Nantes is a captivating, vibrant city! Having visited the metropolis twice now, I love the energy of it.

Nantes appears to have got the balance of restoring the old, with the new blending in majestically, and quite strikingly. The biggest city of the Brittany region has attempted to build an identity as a creative capital of dream and fantasy. This is evident in the architecture and quirky artwork, including Banksy-style street art splattered around the region.

I think the ‘New York City viewing laws’ apply when walking around, remember to look up. One of my favourite finds was around the theme-park area, a building that at eye level was a dull concrete block jazzed up with a bit of colourful art, looking up there was an actual bus with wheels ‘parking off’ a few levels up, followed by a funky, intricate, metal casing reaching to the sky.

An absolute must is a ride on the Nantes elephant! Yes, an elephant! In France! One of the main attractions is the creation of the Les Machines de L’ile, this 40ft wooden structure goes walkabout for half an hour around the Jardin des Voyages precinct, embarking from its metal cathedral with 50 passengers on board. Unsuspecting tourists get doused with squirts from its trunk, with gleeful patrons cheering from above. They have a variety of other mechanised treasures that young and old can play on, but for me, a true African – the elephant stole my heart.

Being an unashamed nautical junky, mixed in with a love for history, and architecture I delight in stumbling upon historical ships, tall ships specifically! Not far from the funfair, theme-park side of the world, moored on the Loire is the magnificent historic three mast tall ship, the Belem. An old beauty that now is a training boat but for decades was a true work horse.

Nantes is a photographer’s dream, with objects around every corner begging to be captured. The old architecture of the cathedral, or the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany or the Graslin District, Square and Opera, to a variety of modern statues or artwork like the massive spikey Resolution des Forces or the rings set along the promenade, or even just boats moored on the river, there is something beautiful to snap.

According to the Nantes tourism website, there are 28 artworks dotted around 22 sites along the 120km Loire estuary between Nantes and Saint-Nazaire.

Nantes is not a car friendly city, with parking establishments being costly and street parking being almost impossible to find. But everything and more is just an amble, a cycle or a tramride away. Public transport is efficient and affordable. On both visits, I had a hire car, having driven from Bourges via Saint Michel to Nantes on my first visit or being mobile to head out to the suburb of Reze for the recent Olympic Qualifications for the Les Blues Basketball Women successful campaign to get to Rio.

Having access to a vehicle, I indulged and opted to take a few day trips from Nantes. The most memorable was out to Saint-Nazaire and the beaches of Saint Brevin Les Pins, I happened upon the incredible, perhaps creepy, artwork of the Serpent D’Ocean. Unveiled in 2012, the aluminium skeleton that is 120m long brings Chinese mythology to a French shore.  The sea serpent looks like it has just beached itself, and with the different tides and sea-state, the mood around the serpent constantly changes. Quite intriguing!

So, if you planning a trip to the famed wine region of Bordeaux, I would strongly recommend you make a detour to Nantes and surrounds for a couple of days, you won’t regret it!

Beautiful Bourges

The second part to this whirlwind trip was in the heart of the Berry Province, a city called Bourges. The city dates back to about 50BC, with the main architectural attraction, the gothic cathedral of Saint Etienne, built in the twelfth century. Ranked as a World Heritage Site, it is considered as the earliest example of the high gothic style of the thirteenth century. Simply put, if I were to wed, this certainly would be the venue for the ceremony. It is utterly magnificent, the stained glass windows are heavenly and the intricate carved detail on the exterior façade is mesmerizingly beautiful.  The inside is just as glorious, the light coming through the windows, the massive airy space, you can climb up to the tower and get an angel’s eye view of the city or go down into the crypt.

As is tradition over the last decade, I had the privilege of catching one of the final pool games of the Euroleague basketball season for Tango Bourges in their recently unveiled shiny new stadium lovingly called The Prado. Led by the ‘tricolour’s’ captain, Celine Dumerc who was the game hero that evening firing 15 points, the home team playing to a capacity crowd were victorious against Polish visitors, Wisla Karkow with a 63-45 win.

A highlight for me in Bourges was reconnecting with a fabulously keen couple at the pristine stadium. My first time ever watching a live basketball game, an elderly man was the usher at the old Bourges Basketball Arena and quickly surmised that I didn’t speak a word of French and in a grand-fatherly way guided me to my seat. Our next meeting was in Montpellier, the French League game we were both attending was held on France’s Independence Day and locals were celebrating at the game with pancakes and red wine. This dear old man sought me out and proudly presented me with an offering of both.

In my basketball travels, I have met France’s number one supporters in Istanbul, Sopron, Ankara, Paris, and just last year in Timisoara, Romania. I read an article stating that this retired couple spend most of their winters travelling in their campervan to all of the games in Europe where Tango Bourges or France are playing.

After the game, standing at the top of their raked section, I waited for them to clamber up from their courtside seats. Halfway up, he glanced up, stopped and alerted his wife and promptly announced to me, and majority of the nearby crowd – Afrique du Sud waving cheerfully. We greeted each other like long lost friends in French, but conversation beyond a jovial greeting was limited as their English is non-existent, as is my French.  But the mutual love of the game for the identical teams has created a strong connection between the three of us and each time I am at a game, I look forward to meeting them.

No visit would be complete without a wander through the Old Town; here you can amble along cobbled-stoned lanes lined with half-timbered medieval houses that date back to the Middle Ages. It is believed that there are still 440 of these medieval masterpieces still standing to this day. Another must do is indulging in a draft on tap at the ancient Jacques Couer Pub a couple of blocks from the cathedral and palace. Situated in an old half-timber house, the inside of the pub takes you on a complete time warp to centuries before.  Stop in for something decadent at CakT, a petit slice of heaven where you can refuel on a delicious cup of tea and a mouth-watering array of desserts.

Of course visits to the Jacques Couer Palace, the Jardins near the Cathedral and the train station, or if you are in these parts in May, there is a hearty music festival that is well worth a stop. Bourges is magical, but I wouldn’t recommend a stay longer than two days.

Departing the centre of France, I made my way north west to the coastal area of Saint Michel! 

Paris - in the wake of Je Suis Paris

Surrounded by the backdrop of a typical European winter, I escaped the sweltering heat here in Durban to ‘chill out’ in France for a bit.

It was fascinating being in Europe, specifically France shortly after our rand collapse and of course, the terror attacks in Paris. My extravagant itinerary of exploring the northern parts of France and tumbling into Belgium was halved due to our dire exchange rate. Instead, I reacquainted myself with Paris and Bourges and then tumbleweeded my way, via the Chateaux Chambord, up to the breath-taking parts of Le Mont Saint Michel and then down to Nantes before returning back to the capital.

My first quest of this adventure: I have attempted to be one of the lucky ones to purchase tickets for the annual, massive French extravaganza, entitled Les Enfoirés. Tickets for this concert sell out faster than a Mumford and Sons concert in Durban and in the last seven years my attempts have been consistent, that of 100% unsuccessful! Les Enfoirés usually takes place over six nights, with majority of the indoor venues able to seat up to 5,000 fans – you do the maths. The whole of France vie for these tickets, and travel from all corners to be a part of it to catch the likes of Zaz, Zazie or Calogero.

This musical type of vaudeville travels around the country, each year a different city plays host and this year, the venue was the massive, forever-transforming arena in Bercy, Paris. The AccorHotels Arena that looks like it is this grassy hill in the midst of a concrete jungle; below ground is a hub of space that shapeshifts for all different occasions. A couple of years ago I was able catch Bourges Basketball compete in the Coupe de France finals at this setting, then a huge basketball stadium, now morphed into a huge concert hall holding thousands of fortunate fans.

As in previous years, my hunt for a ticket remained fruitless so for my first evening I resorted to plan B, picking up a kebab from my favourite take-away located outside of Gare-Du Nord, and after an uncomplicated metro ride I feasted at my picnic spot, sitting dwarfed by the magnificent gothic cathedral, the Notre Dame.

In the wake of Je Suis Charlie and Je Suis Paris, all of the ‘tourist attractions’ have evidently beefed up their presence of law enforcement. A mixture of excitable tourists attempting to capture the moment, pausing in an array of poses was combined with heavily-armed, slow-wandering, observant soldiers weaving through the statuette visitors. On the perimeters, both police and transit police would keep a distant, watchful, suspecting eye on the crowds.

This trip, I opted to minimise my use of public transport and walk wherever possible. Having no actual commitments or plans, besides the outline of accommodation, a FIBA Euroleague basketball ticket and two SNCF inter-city train tickets, I was free to do as I pleased. Armed with only a metro map and a vague idea of where the main attractions were in Paris, I strolled everywhere.  From the Eifel Tower to the Grand Palace, the Louvre to the Opera House, a mosey along the Seine River and down Avenue des Champs-Elysees heading towards the Arc de Triomphe or huffing and puffing up the hill to the Sacré-Cœur Cathedral with a gorgeous panoramic view of Paris. Mooching along small side streets I discovered some fabulous street art, some wonderful galleries, some quirky book stores and even a few decent street side cafes.

If you were to ask me what my soundtrack to Paris would be, I would sadly confide police sirens. Convoys of police vehicles charged through the city streets constantly, flashing blue lights and blaring sirens breaking up the usual bustling city sounds.  A sad reality of the current state of France. 

Al takes the 2016 Vasco title in record time

Point Yacht Club

Vasco da Gama Ocean Race

Port Elizabeth: 25 April

Al Mount Gay Rum skippered by Rob van Rooyen goes one better this year, taking line honours in record time and claiming the handicap win in the 45^th edition of the Vasco da Gama Ocean Race hosted by Point Yacht Club.

The defending champ on handicap sailed a flawless race in a time of 2 days 6 hours 1min 22 sec, smashing the record by 56mintues and claiming the double when she arrived in Port Elizabeth yesterday (Monday) evening at 06:01pm. The team of eight from Cape Town were delighted with their victory, “We knew going into the race that getting the double was a possibility, we knew it would be a challenge but anything is possible. A double whammy, it really is wonderful.” an elated van Rooyen said as soon as he reached the moorings.

Continuing, he stated, “We were really disappointed when Yes Girl retired! They sailed a phenomenal race straight out of the starting blocks and into the lead. We were happy if they got line honours, we knew we could take them on the handicap, and our game plan was to beat them tactically. But once they retired, our tactics changed and we eyed out our next opposition, Bellatrix who at that stage were lying in third, behind us before Yes Girl made her way to East London.”

“We opted to sail using the currents, but once the sea state deteriorated, we came inshore. My team did fantastically, all things considering. One or two got seasick, but they dug deep and got over it. The more experienced guys handled the rough weather like champs.”

“Our average age, we worked out is 24 years on the boat. I just turned 30 and two of the other guys are 30. The youngest is 17. So, we are young, eager crew. We all have been sailing on and off together since I was about ten, so we know each other’s abilities, strengths and weaknesses.”

With the fleet getting dished all sorts of weather, being battered by lumpy seas, winds from all directions, van Rooyen commented, “Al was great. I think going into the race that is where we were better compared to the other guys. We have been prepping Al for the last six months and were extremely well prepared and managed to keep the boat in one piece throughout the heavy stuff. She was sailing like a dream. So I do believe we started at an advantage to the rest of the guys, no one else spent half a year readying their boat.”

With the upcoming Cape2 Rio race around the corner, van Rooyen highlighted, “We would consider doing a race like Rio but in all honesty, the Vasco is far more challenging. Yes, the race only last two days but the actual getting to Durban, and sailing along the SA coastline. This race is much more difficult that the Rio race, in my opinion. There is far more adrenaline in this short, burst down the coastline.”

The next boat to cross the line was Durban’s very own Bellatrix skippered by Gregg Hurter, who arrived just over three hours behind Al. The two pushed each other the entire race, down the coastline, both opting to stay relatively close to shore. As they neared the end, Al accelerated in the varying winds, expanding the gap between the two.

After 400NM, two boats diced it all the way towards finish line in the hopes of claiming third across the line. Only one nautical mile separated the two that were due in the early hours of this morning (Tuesday). Rocket, skippered by Herbie Karolius from Cape Town put in a fine display of sailing, having had to return back to sheltered waters, soon after their disastrous start. The Simonis 54 snagged the start buoy as they were heading through the line on the start on Saturday. After a battle to free it, they eventually cut the warp free and started their voyage only to realise that they in fact were dragging the start line’s anchor, which was slowing them down.

Hats off to the dark horse, Yes Girl from Cape Town, skippered by Gabriel Fernandes the L35 Mod looked to have the race wrapped up with a red ribbon, but as ocean racing goes, it isn’t over until you cross the line. In the proverbial all things happen in threes, Yes Girl certainly was dished a threesome. First, as they were heading to the start line, they got stuck on the ‘putty’, beaching themselves at low tide on the sandbank at the end of the marina. They then got themselves tangled around the start line when they got offshore, dragging it for some distance. And then the third and fatal blow to their race, their steering system packed up after the boat was pushed to the maximum late on Sunday, when they were forced to retire to East London.

Joining them in East London, the gorgeous Ray of Light also had to retire due to blowing out their head on their main sail in 40knots wind. Helmed by the husband and wife team, Heidi and Michael Kavanagh will be disappointed as they got brand new sails leading up to this race.

The remainder of the exhausted 16 strong fleet arrived in to Port Elizabeth with only one boat not being able to cross the lien in the allocated time, Izimoyo II skippered by Jasper van der Westhuizen just didn’t make the cut, as they battled with the challenging conditions the whole way from Durban to Port Elizabeth.

For more info visit www.pyc.co.za or like the Facebook page or follow it on YB Tacking

Q&A with awesome sailor, Mike Kavanagh from Ray of Light

I managed to catch up with Mike Kavanagh ahead of the upcoming Vasco da Gama to Port Elizabeth. 

This is what he had to say to the questions I three at him...

Family? 

Married to first mate Heidi and have been blessed with a wonderful son, able seaman Sean.

How many of them sail? 

Heidi and Sean are avid sailors, as are most of our family members. Heidi was born a von Bredow. Some of our family are sailing on the Fast 42, Nemesis in this race. My cousin Graham Cross just dropped anchor in Brazil on a lovely boat called Onyx that was built by my grandfather Harry Cross and finished by my uncle John Cross.

Which area do you live in? 

Oslo Beach, Port Shepstone in KZN

How did you get into sailing? 

I started sailing with my grandfather and uncle as a little boy, on a Flying Dutchman built by my Grandfather. Later, when I was 10 years old, we built a Dabchick during the school holidays, a boat I still own. The dabbie still has a scar from one of the steel marks on Emmarentia dam that I hit while staring at the girls on the windsurfers. In the good old days we used to sail for fun, very little racing. Maybe we should be doing more of that these days. I was privileged to crew on the family Stadt 23, Umoya on Vaal dam when not playing cricket, hockey or golf, which was seldom as a scholar.

What are your achievements in sailing? 

I like to think of myself a good seaman, thanks to the influence of Alex Cousins of Yachtmaster Ocean Sailing School. I have always been competitive in sports and have worked hard to improve as a racing sailor, being largely self taught by applying knowledge gained from a library of ‘go fast’ books, tested on Ray of Light and smaller Flying 15’s and J22’s. For me a notable achievement was being consistently competitive in the Cape Town club sailing scene with a fun loving mixed crew of old and young, men and women, physically and mentally challenged, novices, a couple of French girls and some elderly Hollanders was very rewarding. We enjoyed taking line honours in last year’s Vasco but were disappointed to miss out on handicap, so will be looking to improve this year. I was privileged to be part of Stuart Ritchie’s crew on the Beneteau First 40, BMA that took line honours and the handicap win in the 2011 Vasco. It was that experience that showed me what had to be done to Ray of Light and her crew to convert her to a club racer from a world cruiser. We have been improving our skills and the boat since then and now that we are Durban based, have wonderful close racing on the water and on handicap with Bellatrix (formerly BMA). One more achievement is to have survived a 360 degree roll on a Stadt 23 named Dejavu in a regatta offshore PE in the 1998 while we were debating whether or not to wear life jackets, we were struck by a breaking wave just outside PE harbour. I trust our arrival in PE this year will be less eventful. 

What other class of boats have you / do you sail? 

Apart from Ray of Light we have a lovely wooden decked classic Flying 15 called Femme Fatale that has a long history of sailing in Durban and Saldanha. We try to upset the carbon fibre speed machines in Durban from time to time. We also enjoy fishing on our little ski boat Sport’s Captain.

Best memory or moment that stands out for you so far in sailing? 

Sailing in the Southern Atlantic ocean was unforgettable, with spectacular bird life. Another highlight was watching a marlin chasing our lures while doing 15 knots downwind with the kite up when leaving the Canary Islands. Moments later we crash gybed as the helms person was distracted by the marlin and consequently had to head back to the Canaries for repairs. Returning Ray of Light to Cape Town from Luderitz, jury rigged after being dismasted (due to the failure of a rather light Sparcraft France factory fitting) in the 2012 Governors Cup, with my wife Heidi and 4 year old Sean was memorable. The week long slow motor beat with storm jib and a dabchick sized main into a building south easter while standing watch with my little boy was something to be cherished, as was the tuna we caught far offshore. Vasco 2014 was special as we had Heidi’s dad Pieter and sister Sigi on the crew with us. With Sean it was three generations. Vasco da pigeon joined us 25 miles offshore as we approached and entered to Durban harbour. Fancy a pigeon finding us way out at sea.

What do you most enjoy about sailing? 

I get great joy from being in God’s creation experiencing the freedom of the open ocean while being driven along by the power of the wind. The sea life is always amazing, it’s like an extended game drive! The concentration and focus needed to keep the boat sailing efficiently is a great way to get your mind off life’s other distractions and challenges. Most of all I enjoy sharing the experience with my wife and son.

What are you hoping to achieve in this year’s Vasco da Gama race? 

I would like to arrive safely in PE with the boat and crew in one piece. We have learned that despite rigorous and thorough preparation, unforeseen mishaps happen. I would like to sail the boat to its potential and perhaps catch a 20kg tuna on the way to PE or on the way back to Durban.

What has sailing taught you? 

So many things, including self sufficiency, innovation and problem solving. It has taught me practical skills like how to service a diesel engine, a marine toilet and to replace steering cables (remember to cross them!). Let’s not talk about black water holding tanks. Sailing has taught me the value of teamwork, clear communication, proper preparation and thinking ahead to anticipate what will happen next. It has made a weather man of me and taught me to work hard to fund the passion! Most of all it has allowed me to spend priceless moments with my family at sea and in the bay in a wide variety of circumstances. On a lighter note I have learned to avoid vomit flying from the weather rail and even tack naked as happened in last years Vasco when we got a little too close to the shore while I was down below trying to suit up for the night ahead and was called on deck in a hurry.

Role model in sailing? 

My Grandfather, Uncle and Father in Law who planted and nurtured the love of sailing in me.

Role model in life? 

Jesus Christ

What are you hobbies? 

Golf, fishing, garden cricket with my son

Besides sailing, any other sport you participate in / excel in? 

In the past cricket / hockey / golf, now days sailing and fishing take up most of the spare time with a little golf now and then.

Describe yourself in one word? 

Content

Where would you like to be in five years / what will you like to have achieved? 

I have no five year plan, never have. I try to live each day to the fullest and although difficult, try not to worry about tomorrow, as it will take care of itself.

Anything of interest that you would like to add:

My wife Heidi and son Sean who is now six, have done most of the 20,000 miles we have clocked up together on Ray of Light. The privilege to sail together has been immense; sailing is definitely a great family sport. It saddens me that there are not more families sailing together. I am hopeful that Heidi’s deteriorating physical condition will not prevent her from joining us for this race. We look forward to another voyage together and to sharing the experience with our good friends and crew in the Vasco 2015. We are especially looking forward to the duel with Nemesis, owned by Heidi’s sister Sigi and husband Anthony Bailes.

PYC Offshore Sailing

Point Yacht Club

Offshore Sailing

The Easter weekend was a busy patch for the more competitive sailors of Durban with three major events concluding around the country.

Down in Port Elizabeth, brothers Thomas and Peter Funke achieved their intentions of finishing in the top ten at the SAP 505 World Championships. Funke squared came eighth overall after eight races. They were the top South African finishers on the leaderboard, behind legends Mike Holt and Carl Smit from America who cleaned up with five first places.

The Robinson brothers, Ricky and Brennan representing the Royal Natal Yacht Club had a fantastic series, showing their dexterity on any sailing craft, finishing 13^th. Amanzimtoti’s Jay D’Engle sailing with Cape Townian Dewet Nel ended his regatta in 18^th.

In Durban, oodles of Hobie sailors took to the warm waters to compete in the Hobie Nationals. The bright and colourful fleet enjoyed superb conditions over four days. Race officer from Cape Town, Doug Allison got in eleven races. After a tense start to the regatta with three false starts in the opening race and a black flag being raised for the remainder of the day, the adrenaline junkies managed to roll in the results.

Taking honours in the main class, William and Lucinda Edwards from Knysna Yacht Club wrapped up with six first places and three second places concluding the four days as deserved winners. Iconic Hobie sailor and World Champion, Blaine Dodds competing with his gorgeous daughter Roxanne, tallied up four firsts and six seconds, settling for silver just two points behind the Edwards. Top local PYC members, Ewald and Ali Erasmus were in the top ten, with their seventh place overall.

Special mention goes to Aldino Gorlei, who recently celebrated his 80^th birthday, finished an impressive fifth in the Hobie 14 class.

Up in Richards Bay an impressive fleet of 14 large keelboats are safely moored after fantastic downwind sailing, they set sail from Inhaca Island in Mozambique on Good Friday in the long distance race to Zululand. Most of the entries used the event as practice for the upcoming gruelling 400 nautical mile Vasco da Gama to Port Elizabeth.

Taking line honours in the 25^th edition of the Inhaca Yacht Race, local entry from Zululand Yacht Club Zeus skippered by Don Voysey in a pacey 23 hours 16 minutes and 48 seconds followed by the Rear Commodore of Point Yacht Club, Jon Marshall sailing on Majimoto just half an hour behind Zeus. Marshall, sailing with his daughters and crewman Edrich ‘Lucky Eddie’ de Lange, were crowned handicap winners. Another PYC member, Greg Donkin helming Alkistis finished third in both handicap and across the line.

April continues to be a busy sailing season with the start of the Vasco da Gama Ocean Race on Saturday 25 April and the SA Laser Nationals taking place from Wednesday 29 April with close to 100 boats taking part.

For more info go to www.pyc.co.za.

Chatting to up-and coming umpire Ansie Joubert

SPAR KZN Regional Hockey Tournament

Interview with Ansie Joubert

Newcastle has a rising star in hockey umpire, Ansie Joubert.

The motivated and driven sports star was recently crowned as the Most Promising Umpire at the annual Northern KZN Regional of the SPAR KZN Regional Hockey Tournament.

“I thrive on the energy that you always feel at a hockey field, there is always something happening.  I love the team spirit in hockey as well as the competitiveness.  I really enjoy the action.” the gentle Joubert states.

“I started playing hockey in Grade 1, all my friends and my sister played, so I joined them.  I have never regretted this choice.

Asked what a memorable moment on the pitch was, she claims, “For some reason the ones I remember most is playing through injuries.  One that especially stands out is playing evening league in Bloemfontein in winter, with legs cramping and ice chips hitting you as you ran, with no-one on the bench because they were all down with flu, we had to play through it.  Luckily we won that game, so it’s a good memory.”

“I am not playing hockey at the moment, but my main positions have always been left striker or left link.  However I was always happy to play where our coach needed me. I even played one game as goalie.” Joubert says smiling.

“Currently I coach Mini hockey as well as our schools under 13A team.  I have also been privileged to coach our under 13 district side for the past 3 years, this year will be the fourth.  I am lucky that I can live out my passion for hockey in a variety of ways, with umpiring now also added in the mix.”

“On the umpiring front, I have been umpiring informally since 2012, only umpiring for my hockey team while coaching. I have always been delighted to accept when other umpires offered to umpire for me.” 

Thinking back, Joubert recalls, “If I remember correctly the first time officially with the whistle, it went okay! Luckily it was not a big game.  Last year I umpired once, for our first team where I was rather a nervous wreck as I did not have a lot of confidence.  Luckily I umpired with a friend, who was willing to help me a lot.”

“This was my second SPAR tournament, last year I enjoyed supporting our team from the side lines.  At the regional this year, I was honoured to officiate in the final at Pionier High, where Ferrum beat Dundee. That would have to be the biggest game I have blown so far.”

Away from the hockey field, the motivated and driven sports start relishes aqua-activities, “Swimming is another favourite for me, I swim the Midmar Mile every year, and then I also take part in triathlons. I occasionally play tennis, scuba dive and have even tried surfing before.”

“I enjoy any kind of adventure, going out and doing new things. I also enjoy reading, drawing and travelling. I would still love to travel to Greece, hike the Inca trail in South America and then go sky-diving!”

“I had the privilege to summit Mt Kilimanjaro with my mom and a group of students, parents and colleagues from school in 2012, an achievement and experience that no one can ever take away from me. I am a farm girl, who enjoys being outdoors, being active and learning new things, whether it is surfing, skiing in Switzerland, rowing down the Orange River or hiking the Otter Trail. These experiences affirm the feeling that I have lived and hope to continue to do so.”

Continuing, the passionate teacher said, “After three years of living in London, I really enjoy the slower pace of life in Newcastle.  We have most things that we need here, it is a big town, yet everyone works well together and one can still have good relationships with people.”

Originally from Dundee, the young whistle blower works in Newcastle, and lives at the school she teaches grade 2s, “I am also head of St Dominic’s Academy’s Boarding Establishment which has its challenges but is rewarding.”

Her eyes light up as she concludes the chat, stating, “I still visit on my parents’ farm during the holidays, this is where I recharge and find my peace.”

Wrap up for day one of Bay and Offshore Dingy Series

Point Yacht Club

Bay and Offshore Dinghy Series

Offshore: Saturday 28 March

Ahead of all the major regattas happening around the country, the Point Yacht Club opted to give their sailors some training offshore for the Bay and Offshore Dinghy Series on Saturday.

12 small crafts met Race Officer Kevin Bingham off Addington Beach in magnificent sailing South-Westerly conditions with long rolling swells and flat seas welcoming the three classes.

As the team set up the race track, the small fleet of dinghies relished the 10knot winds carving through the swells in anticipation of a good afternoon of sailing. The number two pennant was flown, indicating a triangle sausage course first up and promptly at 2.00pm racing got under way. First to go were the two Laser Radials and two Flying Fifteens followed by eight Hobies five minutes later in their own start sequence.

Young Sam Lombaard kept his nose in the front ahead of more experienced Rob Goulden in the Laser fleet, with Lombaard claiming two firsts. Despite their late arrival, Patrick Harris and Jeremy Kriek charged to the front ahead of Myles White and David Curtiss in the Flying Fifteen class. White and Curtiss often caught up to Harris and Kriek on the beat but lost momentum on the run flying their spinnaker.

In the Hobie 14 class, Peter Hall notched up two first places ahead of Greg de Beyer and Richard Gorlei. Gorlei retired from the racing after his impressive second place and de Beyer scored a third and second place in his two races.

In the larger Hobies, the Hobie 16 of Andrew Heathcote and Sean Hurter took the honours competing in all the races.  Their scorecard had a fourth and two firsts on it, while Clint du Toit partnering with young Dylan Albert got two second places along with a Did Not Start for the final race of the day. Justin Butler racing with Laser sailor, Anthony Arbuthnot took the line honours in the first race but had a disappointing second race retiring mid-race and heading back to the beach.

In the final race, Bingham adjusted the course to a windward leeward course. The majority of the fleet retired leaving only four boats to race. Lombaard on his Radial took comfort on the bridge boat due to damage to his main sheet, tying his boat off at the back of the bridge. While the rest of the fleet made their way back to the beach site.

During the course of the afternoon, the wind kept switching and dropping off. At one stage, the South-Westerly changed by 60degrees keeping Bingham and his team busy adjusting the race track as ominous rainy squalls continued to roll across the horizon.

The continuing tussle between Harris and White went down to the wire, fifteen seconds separated the two Flying Fifteens with Harris and Kriek getting a lift as they charged to the finish. The two remaining Hobie 16s got in some good training with Heathcote and Hurter claiming first and CJ Miln accompanied by Braeden Royal crossing the line 90seconds after them.

April is a busy month for the dinghies offshore of Durban, first up is the colourful Hobie Nationals taking place this weekend with around 40 Hobies taking part, then the return of the SA Laser Nationals taking place at the end of the month with an expected fleet of 80 boats.

For more info visit www.pyc.co.za or like their Facebook page.

Results

Offshore and Bay Dinghy Series

Offshore: Saturday 28 March

B Fleet

1 Sam Lombaard (Laser Radial) 2pts, 2 Rob Goulden (Laser Radial) 4pts

C Fleet

1 Patrick Harris / Jeremy Kriek (Flying Fifteen) 2pts, 2 Myles White / David Curtiss (Flying Fifteen)

D Class

1 Peter Hall (Hobie 14) 2pts, 2= Andrew Heathcote / Sean Huter (Hobie 16) 5pts, 2= Greg de Beyer (Hobie 14) 5pts, 4 Garth Louden (Hobie 14) 7pts, 5 CJ Miln / Braeden Royal (Hobie 16) 8pts, 6= Richard Gorlei (Hobie 14) 11pts, 6= Clint du Toit / Dylan Albert (Hobie 16) 14pts

A few questions with catamaran sailor, Wayne Smith

Wayne Smith is one of Durban’s most enthusiastic and accomplished Hobie sailors. He sails with his girlfriend, Kate Bains and the duo will be competing in the Hobie Nationals over the Easter weekend sailing offshore of Durban. He has competed in the Hobie 16 World championships in Port Elizabeth and the Hobie Tiger World Champs in Langebaan. He also sailed his Hobie 16 in the World Masters games in Sydney in 2009. He picked up his interest in sailing from his father who was a competitive sailor in the 60's and 70's.

I attended Athlone Primary School and Maritzburg College High School in Pietermaritzburg and went on to study a BSc in Building Science at the University of KZN-Durban. I have travelled and worked in the builders industry in several places around the world but always gravitate back to good ol' Durbs. Currently in a relationship with a fantastic lady, Kate Bain, who manages the care of orphans in Northern KZN and I try dedicate some of my time supporting her in her endeavour. I am currently involved in developing some residential units in Westville and spend much of my free time involved in sailing through Point Yacht Club. Either trying to promote it or participating in events.

  

What do you love about your town and province?

Mainly...it’s home. And what makes it home is the friends and family here. Of course the climate, landscape and sea just add the finishing touches. Durban is very multi-cultural which adds to the flavour, enchantment and excitement of the city.

What is your favourite destination in the province if you want to take some time out?

The Drakensburg. The backdrop of majestic mountains against the silent starry sky is soul-stuff. The tranquillity contrasts to the hustle and bustle of Durban city life.

Sports & Hobbies?

All through school and varsity I did gymnastics and carried on to do diving, mountain biking, white water kayaking, climbing, water skiing ... but now days anything with a sail is my preference. I began windsurfing at high school and still enjoy the sport although now days I sail Hobie catamarans and micro multi hulls more often. I even have a remote controlled yacht just to show my age!!!

Favourite food and drinks; any place(s) you want to recommend to people?

Almost everything my girlfriend cooks, not only cos she has cooked it GF but she is a damn good cook. I love a medium steak with lots of garlic, my favourite place for the best meat meal in the world is Joops' Place....mmmmmm. I am not impartial to tequila when the party's on but beer especially the growing number of craft beers available make for good after action socialising. Red wine has its place but I am not too up myself enough to think life can’t go on without a good (expensive) red.

Favourite vacation place outside KZN?

Langebaan in summer. A taste of Mediterranean Europe in Africa....lots of foreigners and of course the wind blows.

Any gems you found in the province?

Yes, the bum slide in the gorge near Wonder Cave in the Central Berg and Karlkloof canopy tours, it’s exciting and the location is beautiful.

How do you manage work and home life?

Awfully by all accounts but that depends on who you asking, currently its more squewed to 'life' than 'work'....

What is the best part of your job?

Self Employed so having work is always a good thing but also meeting a variety of people that the industry offers is exciting and challenging...also the boss is very reasonable at times and allows time off for good work / life balance.

What is the worst part of your job? 

Not having work and the boss can be difficult sometimes...

What is the one thing about your to town/province that you think everybody should know?

Its location for outdoor activities is one of the best in the world. Local government needs to understand this and support and develop this potential.

"If I had all the money in the world I would ...

Overthrow the government, ensure my girlfriend’s foundation, Izulu Orphan Projects, became financially secure and self-sustaining (as they get absolutely no Government assistance)....oh yes and of course buy a 60ft catamaran and cruise the Mediterranean."

Point Yacht Club Dinghy Class Champs and Royal Natal Yacht Club North South Race

Point Yacht Club / Royal Natal Yacht Club

Dinghy Class Champs Day Six

North South Race

Harbour: Saturday 28 February

Offshore: Sunday 1 March

Yachts big and small came out to participate in light winds for two events over the weekend.

The conclusion to the Point Yacht Club’s Dinghy Class Champs day six had a fleet of 25 yachts working hard to find the winds in the harbour on Saturday.

Overall winners were Dylan Alberts in the Hobie Fleet; Myles White and Charlotte Marshall in the Flying Fifteens; Trevor Gibb sailing on his Mirror in the Open Class; Richard Bates in the Laser class; Rob Samways and Jared Quinn in the Dart division and young Sven Paton racing on his RS Tera Pro.

It was contradicting weather for the racing of day six, two weeks ago racing was abandoned on the day due to heavy winds. The postponed racing got underway with a slight breeze but as the afternoon drew on, the winds completely disappeared at times.

Shifty winds made it relatively tough for the race officer and sailors. During the three races, Kevin Bingham adjusted the course three times to accommodate the change in wind direction.

On Sunday 9 big keelers made their way offshore to compete in the Royal Natal Yacht Club’s North South Race with Gregg Hurter helming Bellatrix took the line and handicap honours.

Race Officer, Rob Samways got the boats underway directly off of Addington Beach, the small fleet had a short beat up to a buoy set off the north breakwater of the harbour. The boats had a port rounding before heading out to the fairway marker on the horizon. Here the yachts had a starboard rounding and made their way to another buoy set off the old Whaling Station on the Bluff before returning back to the finish line.

Bellatrix finished the 11 Nautical Mile race in just under two hours, finishing ten minutes ahead of second placed Majimoto skippered by Jon Marshall. Having rounded first, Bellatrix turned on the gas and opened the gap between themselves and Majimoto as they made their way out to the Fairway Mark. Majimoto made the mistake of not flying their spinnaker directly but waited till they were clear of the wind shadow caused by the Bluff. Hurter and his crew continued to build on their lead all the way to the finish.

In third place, Gavin Wadsworth on Therapy managed to stay in front of Brad Rayson on Flyer the entire race. The tail end of the fleet had a momentous tussle between the only two L26s racing. Brendan Humphries on the stick of Container World managed to edge out Denmar Nel helming PYC Challenger. One second separated the two as Container World surged forward on a swell pipping Nel at the post.

Results

Point Yacht Club

Dinghy Class Champs Day Six

Harbour: Saturday 28 February

Hobie Class

1 Dylan Alberts (Hobie 14), 2 Justin Butler (Hobie 14), 3 Wayne Smith / Kate Bains (Hobie 16), 4 Peter Hall (Hobie 14) 5 Michael Dickinson (Hobie 16), 6 Justin Butler (Hobie 16), 7 Murray May (Hobie 16), 8 CJ Miln (Hobie 16), 9 Chad Stevenson (Hobie 16), 10 Nathan Constant (Hobie 14), 11 Sean Fennessy (Hobie 14), 12 Matthew Hall (Hobie Dragoon), 13 David van Niekerk (Hobie 14)

Flying Fifteens

1 Myles White / Charlotte Marshall, 2 Patrick Harris / Jeremy Kriek, 3 Campbell Alexander / Chris Clark, 4 Gregg Hurter / Nik Albert, 5 Paul Changuion / Tim Duguid, 6 Simon Musgrove, 7 Craig Campbell / Ian Hogg, 8 Rick Parker, 9 Florence Marshall / Edrich de Lange, 10 Vincent Tiedt, 11 Heidi Kavanagh / Michael Kavanagh, 12 Carl Zimmerman / Simone Yelland

Open Class

1 Trevor Gibb (Mirror), 2 Benji Daniels / Euan Hurter (29er), 3 Denmar Nel (L26 PYC Challenger), 4 Rob Tarboton / Michael Dickinson (29er), 5 My Way (Clynton de Fyn), 6 Sean Hurter (Dabchick), 7 Euan Hurter (Dabchick), 8 Chad Stevenson (Dabchick), 9 Rudi Fokkens (RS Feva), 10 Thokozani Latha (L26 Lindiwe), 11 Jethro Brophy Tintinger / Eli Brophy Tintinger (420), 12 David Curtis (Rebel)

Laser

1 Richard Bates, 2 Frances van Breda, 3 Henri Frencken, 4 Anthony Arbuthnot, 5 Denny Moffatt, 6 Andrew Walford, 7 Rob Goulden, 8 Gregg Dobson, 9 Anthony MacMillan, 10 Campbell Alexander, 11 Rowen Clark, 12 Trent Bingham, 13 Murray May, 14 Jethro Brophy Tintinger (Radial), 15 Chad Stevenson (Radial), 16 Simon Musgrove

Open Class Cats

1 Rob Samways (Dart), 2 Bill Ellens (Paper Tiger), 3 Coert Grobbelaar (Halcat), 4 Clynton de Fyn / Jackie Barnard (Halcat), 5 Jethro Brophy Tintinger / Eli Brophy Tintinger (Halcat), 6 Neil Wadsworth (Halcat), 7 Richard Potgieter (Halcat), 8 Andile Zulu (Halcat)

RS Tera

1 Sven Paton (Pro), 2 Cameron Paarle (Sport), 3 James Butler (Pro), 4 Liam Fennessy (Sport), 5 Chad Stevenson (Pro)

Royal Natal Yacht Club

North South Race

Offshore: Sunday 1 March

1 Bellatrix (Gregg Hurter), 2 Majimoto (Jon Marshall), 3 Therapy (Gavin Wadsworth), 4 Flyer (Brad Rayson), 5 Container World (Brendan Humphries), 6 PYC Challenger (Denmar Nel), 7 Bellissima (Vernon Goss), 8 Candi (Theuns Nel), RTD Thermopylae (Frank Edwards)