View from a Spectator
Royal National Park, 24th June 2007

My team to support were #23 "by george". We headed off at 6.30am from the city, with myself driving and confidently telling the team "this rain will clear soon", how wrong was I.

This was going to be their first maxadventure and they were certainly a little nervous and apprehensive about what was going to happen. At the start line I could not help but be impressed by the pre race excitement and atmosphere, and then suddenly everyone was off along the little track.

Now I had 5 or so hours to kill, the coffee and food on sale got me going, so I went for a walk and found the first group doing the rowing. What a sight, boats going every which way, let's just say the oarsome foursome have nothing to worry about, but people were having a great time.

Back at the start/ finish Team 23 arrived for the kayak, looking a little bedraggled but in good spirits.

It seemd that every time I pulled out the paper it started to rain. That was no problem, however, as soon the winners were arriving so there was plenty to see and applaud. The difference in mud application amongst the teams was unbelievable, some arrived appearing as if they had swallow dived accross a muddy paddock whilst others had barely a spot on them, guess it depended on when they cycled.

With 4.39 on the clock Vibeke and Jacqui came round the corner, looking amazingly fresh. Their performance was outstanding for first timers, they did all the right things, they paced themselves, they were organised and they ate and drank well during the event. I was very proud to witness their day.

We did not hang around as they were cold and hungry and the rain was persisting. Fish and Chips at Tom Ugly's bridge were just the ticket.

Congratulations to everyone who competed and the organising team, it was a great event with fantastic spirit and camaraderie. I was certainly inspired and we have already entered the Urban Max.

As a spectator things to remember for next time, a chair, water proof footwear and plenty of layers of clothes

Cheers

Michael Russell