MBT trains and meets their Peterborough ambassador

Today was the first opportunity for some of the team to sleep in (no more early mornings catching the train, boarding a plane ..). Some of the crew played golf, swam in the hotel’s indoor pool, went for a walk or just simply relaxed in preparation for today’s training session.

The team was picked up from the hotel early afternoon for the drive to Del Crary Park in a yellow school bus (the type you see on American movies). We had our first look at the venue for the regatta, which is a lovely large lake with lots of greenery and activity around it’s shoreline. We had an hour on the water and we felt good after our session – it was overcast and a little blowy at times, but the water felt good. We had a look at the South African team on the water – they are a young team and look strong.

We were collected by bus at 6pm for a visit to the home of our Peterborough ambassador – Melanie. We drove for about 30 minutes, through the rural area surrounding the town. What a fantastic evening. Melanie had never met us before, but she hosted, fed and entertained 33 strangers in her amazing home on the lake. We had incredible views of the lake, watched some interesting techniques on the tennis court, and were treated to an incredible meal and Canadian hospitality.

We were also entertained by Melanie’s daughter Lauren, and husband John. Everyone was blown away by the generosity of complete strangers who opened their house to the rowdy mob called MBT. Back on the bus for a (reasonably) early night in preparation for the street parade tomorrow. We are having a blast !!

The team training bus arrives

Trying on our PFD's (personal flotation devices) - no PFD, no paddle

After our session on the water

Arriving at our ambassador's home

Our hosts - Melanie, Lauren and John