When Gaye from Sun Dive took a group of scuba divers out to Julian Rocks recently, one of the local residents took offence. It was clearly not in the mood for another boat load of bubble-blowing tourists. The elderly turtle decided to show Gaye who was boss in the underwater world off the Rocks. Far from being intimidated Gaye decided to tell the beautiful critter to mind its … [Read more...]
Archives for September 2016
When exercise, sport, spirituality and the environment come together – Socrates meets yoga guru Eoin Finn
One of the aspects of sport that gets very little attention either in the popular media or, for that matter, in animated sporty discussions around the local bar is spirituality. Few punters give any regard at all to whether the Cowboys have maintained a commitment to daily prayerfulness, whether Gary Ablett is on a path to ascending to a higher plane or whether the Matildas … [Read more...]
Walking the pilgrim’s way with Jean-Christophe Rufin – the road to Santiago de Campostela
Why would anyone want to go for a nine hundred kilometre walk by themselves… down country lanes, through rural towns and villages, illegally sleeping in public parks and road sides… just to experience the dubious delight of exploring ancient monasteries, admiring piles of sacred stones and to finally end up at the reputed final resting place of an ancient Christian martyr, … [Read more...]
A surfing life well lived – Socrates reviews William Finnegan’s “Barbarian Days”.
My god. How does one review this book? I hate this book. I hate William Finnegan. I also love the book and love William Finnegan. The problem is that it is hard to be enthusiastic about someone who is so thoroughly superior to you in every way. When I read something, I want to feel a little like the author. I want to believe that, at a pinch, I could achieve a little of what … [Read more...]
Thursday, December 1 – Lake Ainsworth, Lennox Head (Dragonboat territory)
What sport is perfect for all ages, keeps you fit and strong, allows you to get all decked out and spiffed up in lycra, is carried out in beautiful places, is incredibly social, takes you all around the world and makes you irresistible to anyone you want to be irresistible to? Obvious isn't it. Dragonboat racing! … [Read more...]