04/11/2014 – A day at the races

Punters and racers gathered at B&B Central this morning.  Some started early, limbering up for the main event.

A modest field numbering around 85 or so and made up of early lappers and hopefuls exchanged advice, tips and silly jokes amid the pre-race build up.

 

The fashion in the field was dominated by brights of pink, hints of aquamarine and, of course, the ever fashionable, black. This year, accessories have been kept to a discrete minimum. A radiant smile is really enough to offset any ensemble.

 

There is no doubt that there is a serious international influence at this year’s event.  According to experts the Europeans are the ones to back in distance events.

 

A high tide expanded the distance by a few metres.

 

One stayer – Audacious Bravado – was pumped.  Although one does question the choice of racing attire. . .

 

The lumpy conditions caused some to revisit race plans.

 

One surprise this morning was a late appearance out of the west by Michael!  He took his time with the now unfamiliar conditions.  Mind you, when it comes to a distance pursuit, he is the one to watch.

 

It was all Bubbles at the point.

 

Despite the rolling swell, it was a clean start to the warm up lap.

 

For some, this was enough.

 

For others, the adrenaline was pumping as Ian, the starter, announced a staggered start to give the racers clean water.

 

Then, almost before the second start could be called, Just Joking pulled up.

 

It is not clear what was happening amid the flurry of arms and legs – that’s  for the stewards and integrity police to review!

The final position was claimed by the Abbotts Folly duo.   All smiles to have made it through the rip that has caused some a bit of grief over the past few weeks.

 

Finally the stewards were happy. . .

 

This year’s winner of the Bold and Beautiful swim Spring Triple Crown is. . .Scotty!

 

Race reporter, Peter Anthony recalled the final moments of this race with challenges from Spain, Ireland and South Curly raced against locally bred swimmers. ‘The leaders came to the point, rare for this group, and it was anyone’s race, even Sterling had a chance. But Scotty surprised the other hopefuls by swimming over the rocks to claim victory in front of his proud family for the second year running. After a stewards inquiry the final results were Scotty, Tim, Irish Alex, Spaniard, Kara, Buck, Sophie then a gap to Sterling.’

Have a great Melbourne Cup.  May all your horses have four legs.

 

Mary

 

Special Event – Guest Speakers

The next B&B monthly dinner will be on Tuesday 11th November at 6.30 pm at Bluewater Cafe and will be our last for the year. Our special guest speakers this month will be two of our most knowledgeable swimmers, Dr Rainer Noack  and Professor Nick Dawkins, who will provide a follow up presentation to their previous dissertation on swimming etiquette, titled:

“How to get ahead in the B&B”.

The learned gentlemen have assured us that the content will be both informative and amusing. Don’t miss out on this important event – book early!
To mark this occasion, we have a new and improved menu with more choices. The cost has increased slightly to $25 a head and includes shared entrees, a selection of mains to choose (incl a vegetarian option), corkage (for byo wine only) and a little thank you for the staff. Glasses of beer or wine and desserts are also available at the special price of only $5 each. This is still outstanding value. Numbers are limited, so bookings are essential.  To secure your spot please BOOK HERE NOW, 

 

Staying safe

Remember that there are no badges for scaring yourself silly! While it is great to extend your boundaries, it is important to know your limits. Do read these excellent tips on staying safe in the surf. To read, or even download, click here.

 

The Stats

Regulars:   85 (ish)

Newbies:   2

Temp:         18.9

Sunrise:      5.53am

Sunset:       7.25pm