Umtamvuna Views: Annual fun ride attracts entrants from afar
The ‘Sardine Run’ Classic was first organised at Clearwater Farm with just a handful of riders who braved the steep Old Pont Road.
ABOUT 500 cyclists and runners gathered at Port Edward Holiday Resort for the start of the fifth annual Sardine MTB Classic last Sunday. Approximately 20 years ago the ‘Sardine Run’ Classic was first organised at Clearwater Farm with just a handful of riders who braved the steep Old Pont Road. On a few occasions, the sardines also ‘ran’ along our coastal waters.
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The event went off without a hitch with perfect weather for the cyclists riding in the 45km, 25km and 5km fun ride. For the first race of four in the series, riders came from as far as Johannesburg.
Organisers ‘Bundubashers’ thank the resort for hosting the event and all the farmers who allowed the riders and runners through their properties. All those kind people who helped in marking and mapping out the routes, marshals, and the generous sponsors are gratefully acknowledged.
Olé, olé
Six adventurous local women and three family-related ‘add-ons’ travelled to Spain to tick off one of their bucket list items. They embarked on a strenuous six day walk, covering 130km through glorious rural Spanish villages. Spring flowers were on display and the band of ‘Camino Sisters’ had lots of fun and laughs.
They frequently stopped at a local café for a beer or a coffee – as long as they had collected their two Camino passport stamps every day. Apart from the fun and giggles, they also reflected on what the Camino trail is all about. The route through Spain, Italy and Portugal follows the ancient pilgrim trail linking various churches.
Slumbering seal
Dave Hitchins and Roger Humphreys of Leisure Bay were walking on the beach last Sunday morning. Just north of Port Edward main beach, they almost tripped over a large Cape fur seal taking a rest in the sunshine on the beach. The seal had probably followed sardine shoals north from the Cape and was exhausted.
PHOTO: Roger Humphreys
The little creature didn’t linger on the beach long and soon waddled back into the waves to continue its journey.
People are urged not to interfere with an animal that has found its way onto the beach and seems unhurt. Often they just need to rest, lay eggs or catch some sunshine. Observe them from a distance, but do not frighten them.
Official unveiling
The Portuguese Mariners Family Festival will take place this coming Saturday and Sunday, (13th and 14th) at the Estuary Hotel. There will be an official unveiling of the Portuguese Monument near Splash Rock in Port Edward on Sunday at 8am.
Local Catholic priest Father Bernard Thiel will open the ceremony with a blessing of the monument. Dave Watson will emcee the affair and recount the amazing story of the wreck of the Sao Joao in June 1552. A Zulu choir will perform before the champagne toast.
Fond farewell
Popular and well-loved Port Edward resident Maureen Hughes (affectionately known as ‘Little Mo’) has moved to Nelspruit to live with her only daughter. Maureen and her husband Vernon moved to Port Edward 14 years ago and sadly Vernon died two years ago. Maureen worked at the HELP Foundation’s charity shop for many years and was well known for her ready smile and kindness.
A market fun day will be held at Port Edward Country Club next Sunday (21st) from 8.30am. There will be stalls to browse, a jumping castle, a deejay providing music and much more. For more info, contact Carla Hart at 039 3112589.
All news to Philippa.
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