Tuesday 17 January – Warning – Scorcher ahead

It was strangely quiet this morning at the 6am getup. Seemed not a zephyr of wind to be had and a most amazing fog bank out to sea. The leftover Nor East chop had faded to more of a hump than a bump and with the forecast high temps today we headed for the 6.30 squad kickoff.

The word is that today will be one of the worst on record for sun strength through our special Australian hole in the Ozone. Grab some slap and hunker down is my suggestion for all you beach boys and girls.

The hike to the starters hut was kinda special with the sun wended well behind the South Steyne hill before its summer peak.

Even at this altitude, I could feel the rays tingling.

The 6.30 crew gathered and were out there without so much as a “when you’re ready”. I joined the rear guard just in time to see the group dissolve into Shelly.

And dissolve they did as it was impossible to see much at all with a special low viz ocean to greet us.

Despite the lack of site seeing on the way over, there was a nice 21.7 degrees temperature to ease the trip.

With no Rips, Headwinds, Jimbals or Bluey’s there were lots of time checks this morning with conditions suggesting a bunch a PB’s were beckoning.

The home run got in just before the change of guard. An enjoyable swim despite the zero viz.

But the breakfast was a winner.

And now just a couple of pics from the B&B on tour in Parkes out to witness the return of Elvis. Let me assure you I was not prepared for this backwater 25th coming. It was something to behold with 25000 people descending on Parkes for the 4 day sing along. With our convenor and Choir leader, Ian McKnight leading the way we very quickly realised we were well under dressed with everyone of any age donning anything that remotely reminded them of the King.

There were Elvi everywhere, sometimes multiple arguing the toss on stage.

With a calm 40 odd degree’s, there were moments of rest that many welcomed. The crowd was pretty well behaved as a result. Ian and Terry got a bit rowdy but after a nights sleep under the 40 degree hairdryer in the tent, the following days were more subdued.

And after a whole bunch of wannabee’s the Elvi grand champion was chosen.

Now out of the race, there was nothing to do but get the runners up challenge behind the nearest tent with a couple of other hopefuls. I have to report we were unsuccessful but there is always next year.

In terms of Swim stats, not real sure. A couple people looked new and I am guessing there were 300 punters and a cool 21.7 degrees. See you all and have a great week.

Brian

Dont forget for those fired up, the ABBA weekend in Trundle a quiet 6 hours drive from Sydney and further out than Parkes. They have a train to apparently.

http://www.trundleabbafestival.com/default.html

Bold and Beautiful members – WE WANT YOU!

​The Manly Festival of Surf Sport is coming up in 2 weeks and we need everyone’s help!

Friday 27th Jan – Nipper Nats (this day is not a public holiday)

Saturday 28th Jan – Manly Open Carnival and Manly Boat Carnival

Sunday 29th Jan – Manly Boat Carnival finals/National Short Course Championships

​For the three days of the festival, we need a wide range of people from early in the morning to mid afternoon:

​* Set up and Pack Down

* Helping feed the officials

* IRB drivers

* First aid

* BBQ wranglers

​* Registration desk managers​

* Parking managers

* General hands on deck

* Both light duties and heavy lifting jobs available

Because we know how much you love Manly Beach, we’re encouraging you to rope in friends and family as well – every contribution, no matter how small, will be very welcome.

ACTION! Please email volunteer@manlylsc.com and let us know which days you’re able to help out!

Definitely nominate your preference for role and I can match you up with friends if you want to be together.

New B&B Budgy Smugglers – HERE NOW

The new B&B Budgy Smugglers are now available on line from the Budgy Smuggler website. Remember, part of the profit from the sale of our swimwear range goes to the Royal Far West. Here’s where to go to order them:

Mens: http://budgysmuggler.com.au/mens-swimwear/bold-and-beautiful.html

Womens Bottoms: http://budgysmuggler.com.au/womens-swimwear/bold-and-beautiful-bottoms.html

Womens Sports Tops: http://budgysmuggler.com.au/womens-swimwear/bold-and-beautiful-sports-top.html

Womens one-piece swimmers will be available in January.

Budgy Smuggler create 100% Australian made swimwear.

Available for Men, Women and Kids – it’s the perfect stocking filler this Christmas!

Shop at: www.budgysmuggler.com.au