Auckland Grammar School Distance Squad - Tour to California and Hawaii 2008

2009-04-14T21:06:00.003+12:00

Ben Skeen
History Master

Master I/C Leadership Programmes

Auckland Grammar School
Mountain Road
Private Bag 99930
Epsom
Auckland
NEW ZEALAND

Tel: +64 9 623 5402 Extn 570
Fax: +64 9 623 5401

Mob: +64 (0)21 442 637
Email: b.skeen@ags.school.nz

Note: This email may contain information which is confidential and/or legally privileged. This information is intended only for the recipient named. If you are not the intended recipient, you must not read, use, disclose, disseminate, distribute or copy this email or attachments. If you have received this in error, please notify the sender immediately by return email, facsimile or telephone (call collect) and delete this email. The contents of this message should not be relied upon by any person without subsequent written confirmation. The sender, and Auckland Grammar School Board of Trustees accepts no liability for actions taken as a result of this message prior to receiving such written confirmation. Thank you.

Info:

2009-04-14T21:06:00.002+12:00

Mr Skeen:

You can now post directly onto the new blog at news@1000miler.co.nz

Thanks,

Matt

Video test

2009-03-09T22:11:00.000+13:00

To the Organising Team

2008-10-10T22:20:00.001+13:00

Heartfelt thanks to all of you for giving our boys such a fantastic time, this is something that will inspire them. Most of us know and acknowledge the enormous effort and amount of energy it has taken you to both organise and hold an event like this. Please, please accept that our boys have behaved so well out of respect for you, the people that have been with them throughout the trip, the TEAM that has LEAD them. Know that our boys will hold this trip and all of you in their hearts forever. I will never be able to thank you enough. To the Boys - be PROUD of who you are and what you have achieved; I am. Bruce Robinson

A Huge Thankyou

2008-10-09T20:39:00.001+13:00

I just want to send a HUGE thank-you to Toad and the GREAT team of staff and parents that lead these fortunate boys on their trip of a life time. Amazing communication through this blog sight has meant we have all experienced this trip with them. Boys -it sounds like your behaviour has been exceptional-WELL DONE!! Again- a big thankyou to ALL that made this possible. ....Jenny Green/Scott.

The US Tour IT team

2008-10-09T10:40:00.001+13:00

Sensational sun, surf and

2008-10-09T10:28:00.001+13:00

Since our arrival in Hawaii, this tropical paradise has not disappointed. The boys have spent their days sleeping, eating, shopping, surfing, swimming, more shopping, more surfing with the occasional chatline to the local wahines. A number of lads have come to the fore in this regard, and the following mothers need to take note; Mrs. Watt, Ms Pry, Mrs. Snow and Mrs. Burridge and of course how could we forget Mrs. Temm! You know I think young Elliott fell in love with himself at an early age and he's been going steady ever since. There is a boulevard of broken hearts strewn from San Francisco to Honolulu. The rivers of tears and sorrow have reached bursting point.

We depart Hawaii tonight and close the final chapter on what has been an unforgettable experience. Right from day one in San Francisco, to Stanford, Pasadena, Santa Margarita and finally Honolulu the travelling road show has been an utter buzz. A prominent reason for the enjoyment of all has been the behaviour of your sons. The staff can't speak highly enough of them and reiterate what many people and organisations have expressed in regards to this during the tour. As teachers, we only have your lad for six hours a day and you act as care giver for the other 18. Therefore, most of the credit must go to you, as parents. The personalities and characters, not to mention leadership skills that have emerged on tour has been quite remarkable. A special thanks must go to team captain Sam Burridge and his team of senior lads who have set and maintained exceptional standards. If these boys are an example of the calibre of character that the school has going into the seventh form next year, it is indeed in good heart. One of the most pleasing aspects of a tour such as this, and especially this one, is to observe the personal development of the quieter lads in the group. People such as Matt Dyer, Sam Barclay, Matt Roberts, Sean Gray, Cam Burstall, Jack Moody and Cole Robinson have most definitely developed and the experience will be life lasting. To the 'lads' who had it all before they arrived, mothers they have now got more!

We now turn our attention to the staff. In the ladder of brownie points they appear in this order. Exceptional behaviour, The Toad, followed by Mrs. B, Mrs. Jackson, Mr. Jones, Mr. Skeen, and a little distance further Mr. B. Obviously you'll realise that there is a name missing. Rodney 'its five minutes away, just around the corner' Gordon has been totally rebellious and defiant. I have had to room with this individual for the last two and a half weeks and I can honestly say that before I met Rodney I was getting absolutely nowhere. Now I believe I'm getting there even faster. Thanks heavens he had a 30 day return if not satisfied guarantee that came with him. It never ceases to amaze me how popular this imposter is amongst the boys but as the Headmaster once said, "just remember, only Auckland Grammar has Rodney Gordon".

There are certain awards that we would like to hand out now that we are at the end of our adventure.

The Biggest Losers: This award goes jointly to Matt Morreau, Henry Harman and Elliott Temm who managed to leave part of themselves or their gear in places that we had recently left. Thankfully due to the detective work by Mr. and Mrs. B nearly everything was retrieved and returned to its rightful owner.

The Ultimate Showman: This award goes to James Watt for his fantastic performance on stage in front of 700 people last night. Had it not been for a local judge, he would have scooped the ultimate prize, a T shirt!

The Two Separate Gorilla award goes to Jack Moody after his performance at Knotts Berry Farm. Interestingly enough I spotted him yesterday on the beach kicking sand in skins face with confidence. Next he'll be fighting poodles.

The Cuisine Award goes to Nick Orr for the number of brain pies he consumed, whilst the quieter achiever award goes to Howie Gaudin.

The Most Dedicated Award is shared jointly by Nick Orr and Chris Boswell who, along with two staff members, negotiated the gruelling Diamond Head run early this morning which was not compulsory, just optional.

Finally the Ultimate Tourist Award goes to Sam Green who possesses the perfect personality, temperament and laid back approach to such an excursion that he could quite easily spend the rest of his life on an endless tour of duty.

And finally, finally, The Most Informative Award must go to Mr. B who stated this morning during breakfast that following extensive scientific research, it is imperative that one leaves his teabag in the cup for no less than three minutes. This truly is a fact to be placed in the useless information file!

So folks, we have come to the end of an extraordinary experience which will remain and be beneficial to these young men for years to come. As I have always stated, regardless of ability, everyone becomes an ex All Black, age dictates this. As a result the friendships you have made, the experiences that you have been exposed to, and the education that you have inherited is always more important than the tries that you scored... This group have scored many and will undoubtedly score a lot more in the future. However, much of what they achieve in the future will almost certainly be attributed to experiences such as they have had in the last two weeks. Thanks you parents and supporters for the massive part you played in making this possible. We look forward to seeing you in a few hours in Auckland.

The Toad

Leo's minder day 13

2008-10-09T08:22:00.000+13:00

James Watt - Our complete and utter hero representing Auckland Grammar with pride

2008-10-08T23:04:00.000+13:00

Waiting for the bus to the luau

2008-10-08T22:57:00.000+13:00

Fun and frolics at Waikiki

2008-10-08T22:38:00.000+13:00

No blog tonight

2008-10-08T21:45:00.001+13:00

Dear All,

Just to let you know there won't be a blog tonight. We have just got home from a luau with the boys and it's time for bed. We will post tomorrow morning. All the boys are just about tucked up safely in the hotel.

Kind regards,

Mrs. B

Drum Kit

2008-10-08T19:15:00.001+13:00

Toad -Has the drum kit been collected?
Ringo

2008-10-08T18:06:00.002+13:00

Sam B. Sounds as though you are having a great time surfing in Hawaii. Looking forward to your return Luv Gigi & Papa

HI SEAN

2008-10-08T15:54:00.000+13:00

Nice picture of you after the senior race Sean! Glad to see you out there working up a real sweat. Thanks for your email, sounds like you have had a great tour and had really great hosts!, can't wait to see you and hear all about it. Hope you have had some successful shopping, those whitman choclates are nice eh? (hint..)love Mum

Leo's minder day 12

2008-10-07T22:26:00.001+13:00

Crowd - Guess who - Tom Wu and his sister Ella flexing their muscles

2008-10-07T22:25:00.001+13:00

Crap weather, missing home

2008-10-07T22:18:00.001+13:00

The smart idea turned out to be a flop

2008-10-07T22:17:00.001+13:00

Kung Fu Panda takes on allcomers

2008-10-07T22:16:00.001+13:00

Never show your face in front of the big Kahuna

2008-10-07T22:13:00.001+13:00

The Toad on Tour

2008-10-07T22:09:00.000+13:00

aloha from Epsom Ave

2008-10-07T21:40:00.001+13:00

Hey guys

glad to hear your catching some waves

all we are catching here is a cold

never mind plenty of grapefruit on the tree

West coast huge East flat as

A man hope that rash is just chafe

If Daisy gets it you could be in trouble

make sure Mum gets on the plane

looking fwd to that haka at Mangre

Laters

Alie and Dad

A Surf'n Safari

2008-10-07T18:49:00.001+13:00

Let's go surfing now, everybodys learning how, come on a safari with me! Day three in our tropical Paradise began like any other day on the tour thus far. Mr. B cooked the staff eggs, Mrs. B played the ukelele over breakfast, Messrs Jones and Skeen took a leisurely jaunt over the upcoming iron man course whilst Rodney facilitated surfing lessons for Mrs. Jackson and other would be tourists on the famous Waikiki beach. Whilst all of this was occurring I took the opportunity to connect with the local people by bridging cultural divides and talking to them in their native tongue. It has been with great pride that I, the Kamatua of this touring party, then sat back, as I let my mokopuna run loose on the sandy shores.

It is to those darling delights that we now turn our attention. The boys assembled at Punahou High School at 8.30am this morning looking remarkably fresh and excited to share the previous thirty plus hours that they had spent solely in the care of their local billets. Without a word of a lie, it was immensely difficult to understand what the hell had gone on as the 32 monkeys squawked and squealed in unison with various stories of their Sunday adventure. Unlike myself, who frequented church for a period of close to four hours, the little rascals instead chose beach side locations to entertain and be entertained. A notable highlight of the outings was a story concerning one Jamie Small. After recent success, Jamie attacked Sunday as if he was the reincarnated Jesus, and when faced with a somewhat dominant obstacle, a 30 foot drop from large rock into water, he decided that like some heavenly angel he would descend from the sky. Unfortunately for Jamie, regardless of how much bacon and pork he has consumed on this tour, the reality is "pigs don't fly". I state for all concerned that although I have a strong focus on discipline and keeping it 'old school' any photos of young Jamie's abdomen are not a result of me lashing out in anger.

Turning our attention towards today, the wonderful Waikiki beach became the environment in which many of our young lads for the very first time learnt how to surf. Whilst our seasoned campaigners such as Daniel and Andy Jackson displayed all out aggression in volumes that would have made the great John McEnroe proud, many of our novice charges developed the technique early on. Whilst the lure of a two minute surfing instruction under the direction of a lovely blonde mermaid caught our boys eyes at first, it was the calm reef and smooth waves that stole our boys hearts. Special mentions must go the following who managed to stand for the first time; Matt Dyer, Sam Barclay, Ethan Moser, Nick Orr, Elliott Martin, Cam Burstall and Jack Moody. The learning process was not without its tragedies as often, more time was spent falling into the water, rather than on the board. However, the sight of the bikini cladded Goddesses ensured our lads held back the tears in a show of macho New Zealand bravado. Due to these wonderful successes overall, we are considering embarking on a journey to the big waves of the North Shore tomorrow as a training regime for the newly formed Auckland Grammar Surfing Academy (Waikiki branch). Clearly I, the Toad, will add this Directorship to my portfolio of qualifications.

Sadly, again the day could not go by without shopping expeditions throughout Waikiki. It never ceases to amaze me, the volume of cash our boys are able to offload into the local economy. I had thought that initially I would be required to sell myself to ensure your young men would be able to eat over the course of this tour. However, this has not been the case as the boys continue to take big chunks out of the clothing racks and pitza parlours of sunny Hawaii.

The day could not go by however, without a training run, after all this is a running tour. The boys reconnected with the Punahou squad at 4...30 today and embarked on a light 5km cruise. Those feeling a little bit more adventurous such as Tim Carnachan and Elliott Temm embarked on the 10km course, or so they have led us to believe. I must be honest with you Mothers, I take the words of our boys with a grain of salt and it would not have surprised me if these two young stallions had spent the duration of the 'run' around the corner chatting up the beautiful wahines who occupy these shores.

Tonight the boys are off to Cha Cha Cha which is, according to Andy Jackson, a Mexican cafe because clearly the Cha Cha Cha sounds Mexican to his thinking. This will be a special time as it will be their last evening in the company of their local Hawaiian friends and will also act as the last evening on tour whereby they are under the guidance of their adopted Mothers.

Quote of the day: Matt Roberts "I refuse to leave this Paradise, I'm going to nestle down and become a big brown long haired Kahuna".

Issue of the day: Young Nicholas Orr has significant deficiencies in relation to time management. Granted, he was Leo's minder, and therefore carrying twice his own body weight, however there was no accommodation made for this. Nick has been informed by the entire touring party that his intelligence will be removed via peer surgery if a recurrence of this eventuates.

The Toad

AGS Tour Boy's Haka

2008-10-07T17:07:00.002+13:00

Here is a Cool Video of the Grammar 08 tour boy's doing the Haka for Santa Margarita

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3E_hHYjaqq4

from Henry Watt

Cole Robinson

2008-10-07T10:50:00.001+13:00

Hi Cole,

I'm proud of your never ending smile son.

I bumped into your Kasia last night at the Hard Rock Cafe in Warsaw. She was not happy about you going to Hooters.

Sorry son. I should have kept quiet.

Dad :-)

Elliot Martin

2008-10-07T08:07:00.002+13:00

Hi Elliot I was very proud to see your results in the Hawaii run. The Hollywood run looked like a killer to. Good on all you guys for being great ambassadors for your school and country .keep up the good work.

Bryan

Bryan Martin

ANZ Gas TurbinesFeild Services

+64 0212470394

+64 9 255 8079

Fax +64 9 255 8079

Email bryan.martin@airnz.co.nz

re jamie small

2008-10-07T07:13:00.001+13:00

Good morning Matt, I am email on behalf of Gina Small.

Can you please let Jamie know Gina has been in contact with the ASB again and according to them the card has not got a block on it and should be working fine, and he has currently still has about $259-00 US Dollars to spend on it.

Can you please not post this on the blog thanks

Regards since 1972 trusted solutions.
Lance Barker
Account Manager ph 0275-980- 724

ANCHOR WIRE LIMITED www.anchorwire.co.nz
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our turn

2008-10-06T22:59:00.002+13:00

Just in case you think we don’t care …. the blog has been the highlight, all the family converge onto the computer when they come in the door, dying to know what is going on, we are living vicariously through you poor underprivileged children, we would like to say that mummy and daddy are very proud of our big baby darling boy for being so thoughtful to those lovely ole dears @ LAX and do you think you could share some of that love with your siblings when you return or not??? Give our big baby boy a huge hug from us all at home love from James Watt’s Mummy and Daddy and PS Victoria misses you lots and says Henry is a annoying but George is ok

PPS Henry thinks Daniel Smith is a legend!!

2008-10-06T21:22:00.000+13:00

Hi (or should I say Aloha) to all

No doubt you have all caught up on some sleep after a very active Califorinan leg of the trip. You have all done extremely well - not only on the running front but also on the behaviour stake!! Well done.

Sam Barclay ('oif or number 8) - don't forget to go for a surf and watch out for those turtles when you ae on your surf board. In fact, watch out for the local mermaids as well!!! Photos of any kind of the locals would be appreciated.

Jay has a message for his brother Sam - "Hi Sammy Boy - have you got my Nike tennis shoes from your favourite bro' Jay".

Baby sister Ella send her love to big bro.

From Mummy - "missing you looking forward to seeing you on Friday - big kisses and cuddles".

From the Barclays

Max is missing you.

2008-10-06T21:20:00.001+13:00

Hey Sam Green-Max is really missing you-she has been continually crying since you left-longing for your return....keeping yor bed warm for Friday night!..............by the way Max is the 11 year old cat! Look forward to Friday morning..seeing you all and of course ...the haka.

Treasure the last few days...Jenny (Green)

re jamie small

2008-10-06T19:22:00.000+13:00

hi mat

can you please not put this message on the blog site

Jamie the cards not working cos of you trying to put a pin in it

Please ask Toad if you can have a loan as it cant be sorted there

he did offer at the last meeting to help if necessary

Explain to him whats happened

Hi from the Martin-Pry's

2008-10-06T17:21:00.000+13:00

What an amazing trip you are all having.

Just wanted to send a note to say congratulations to all of you for the success at Honolulu. This was a fantastic effort - well done Jamie!

I also have to say congratulations Elliot - sounds like you ran a great race and I'm very proud!! What a great team effort all round!

We have a few messages from home for Elliot:

Connor says he is really enjoying using your room while you are away - especially since he removed all the old chip bags and used cereal bowls!
Ryan says "Sup bro, hows it goin with da ladies?"
Carmel says she misses all the walks you owe her (apparently you never take her!!)
Terry can't wait to hear what US University you want to attend
Mum says hi - missing you and can't wait to see the haka on Friday morning.

Enjoy the last few days in the heat!

Cheers

Christine Pry

Howie and Sam at St. Ignatius

2008-10-06T10:28:00.001+13:00

Hey bro

2008-10-06T10:12:00.000+13:00

Listening to birthday greetings from home

2008-10-06T10:09:00.000+13:00

Chris looking strong in the home straight

2008-10-06T09:55:00.001+13:00

Re: Jamie Small walks tall - please add this to the blog!

2008-10-06T09:52:00.001+13:00

Hey Jamie,

Just wanted to congratulate you on your win at the Kamehameha invitational! Dad called me up last night to tell me the good news and I was jumping up and down with joy. I'm so proud of you mate, that's awesome!

You look like you're having an amazing time… we're all thinking of you and will look forward to hearing all about your trip once you get back.

Much love,

Your big sis x

Yesterday's senior team after the race

2008-10-06T09:51:00.000+13:00

Jordan leading the haka challenge to the senior team yesterday

2008-10-06T09:47:00.000+13:00

Sam gets welcome relief courtesy of junior water boys

2008-10-06T09:30:00.001+13:00

The shirt fiend with one of his purchases

2008-10-06T09:22:00.001+13:00

Some hot boys at the top of the Hollywood hill

2008-10-06T09:15:00.001+13:00

The team atop the Hollywood Hill

2008-10-06T09:11:00.000+13:00

The Hollywood sign for you disbelievers

2008-10-06T09:08:00.000+13:00

Tom on top of the Hollywood Hill

2008-10-06T09:04:00.000+13:00

Autograph signings with the groupies

2008-10-06T07:03:00.000+13:00

Leo's minder day 11

2008-10-06T06:50:00.001+13:00

Leader of the Pack - well at least over the first 2.87 metres

2008-10-06T06:23:00.000+13:00

Reaching for support from their forefathers - that's Orrsome!

2008-10-06T06:19:00.000+13:00

In the words of Elliott Temm, "this is how we do man love"

2008-10-06T06:11:00.001+13:00

My nail polish is way better than yours

2008-10-05T23:47:00.001+13:00

The Great Escape - fleeing from police charges of indecent exposure

2008-10-05T23:04:00.001+13:00

Running on air, I don't even have to look at where I'm going

2008-10-05T22:50:00.000+13:00

Margin for error, not Small as clearly illustrated on the home straight

2008-10-05T22:44:00.001+13:00

Interviewer asks: "so what qualities attract you to Bella?"

2008-10-05T19:32:00.001+13:00

The Mob That Broke Hawaiin hearts and stole their competition!

2008-10-05T19:27:00.000+13:00

(Grand)Father & Son - The dialogue flows so easily!

2008-10-05T19:23:00.001+13:00

Jamie Small walks tall

2008-10-05T18:24:00.001+13:00

James Small provided the individual highlight of day 11 when he won the Kamehameha invitational in Honolulu this afternoon. He ran a sensational race to beat a number of more favoured athletes from the top Californian school, Big Bear who had made the five hour flight from the mainland carrying an awesome reputation. Sam Morreau followed up his huge Stanford effort with a third placing in a race which was extremely fast in humid conditions. Nick Orr and Chris Boswell placed 5th and 6th to ensure that Grammar took the team title also. Others to excel was Howie Gaudin in 7th, Elliott Martin in 8th and James Watt who finished 10th. Elliott's effort was particularly pleasing as he is only just emerging from a most inconsistent period since last years nationals. He ran an exceptionally strong race.

Without Matt Morreau and Daniel Smith running, a rather depleted senior side acquitted themselves well by gaining a third place in the teams event. Our first runner was Jamie Van Het Wout who finished in fifth position and as this is only his fifth proper cross country race, he is an outstanding prospect for the future. Others to excel in this grade were Sam Burridge 14th, Jake Wilkinson 15th, Tom Wu 19th and Daniel Jackson 22nd. The overall results were most pleasing since we are fielding an exhausted group of athletes who can now look forward to beach time.

The Rodney Gordon time machine struck again. As the boys stayed with us in the hotel last night, they were wrenched out of bed at 5.30am and transported to the school for a 7.15am start. Mrs B was heard to say that for a change we had met a time deadline and in fact was five minutes early. We soon found out that the sad truth was that we were in fact five hours early and the boys did not actually run until 3.30pm and 4.30pm... Time waits for no man, not even Rodders.

The lads are now with their billets of which the majority are in fact girls, which disappointed many of them - yeah right! It was noticable however that lifelong friendships were being established well before the gun went off. Daddy will be proud, Mummy will cringe!

Tomorrow most will be let loose at Water World and the staff will get their first day of relaxation. Again we are going to be embarrassed by the hospitality and this was no better illustrated when we discovered that one solo mother got up at 5am this morning to conduct a garage sale to empty her spare room for Cole Robinson. This won't be a concern if they come to visit us as everyone is staying at the Rodney Gordon time tunnel.

As a result of freedom, there will be no blog tomorrow but this will resume on Monday when we again link up as a team early in the morning.

I hope you are enjoying our presentations and encourage you to log messages etc. when possible. The staff are holding together well although the boys have not got exhaustion solely to themselves. The motherly instincts emerged today when Margaret Jackson and Mrs B spent two hours plus in the laundry doing the staffs washing which was well overdue. Thank you kind ladies.

Quote of the day: "It's just around the corner - should take five minutes"; Rodney Gordon

The Personal Sacrifice Medellion is to be awarded to Sam Green who agreed to run rabbit at the start of the senior event. We are still awaiting his finish! I believe the organisers are timing him with a calendar, however, he was mightily impressive over the first 500 metres.

Second Quote of the Day; Toad overheard one of the locals comment during another powerful rendition of the haka, "you know dear, there's only one Maori out there to which his wife replied, "how do you spell that dear?' Ah, I think it's it M O O R E Y"

Final Quote of the Day was another reaction to the haka. The official starter approached the staff stating that the Hawaiin culture is similar and that he had seen war dances performed on the island by local sports teams. However, this was the first time he had seen it done so professinally by a group of "skinny white guys!"

The Toad

Oops sorry, wrong photo posted for the Lagunaness Monster!

2008-10-05T10:38:00.001+13:00

Cool, calm and collected - who the heck made this lot the guardians?

2008-10-05T10:27:00.001+13:00

A structured outing - Howie plays eenie meeni minie mo

2008-10-05T10:24:00.001+13:00

Venice Beach - The sights and sounds of the boardwalk - overrated

2008-10-05T10:14:00.000+13:00

You write it, we read it, boys believe it coz its real

2008-10-05T10:11:00.001+13:00

The Lagunaness Monster

2008-10-05T10:07:00.000+13:00

7am - hopefully a new day brings new looks to this ugly bunch

2008-10-05T10:03:00.000+13:00

Leo's minder day 10

2008-10-05T09:59:00.000+13:00

re jamie Small

2008-10-05T09:52:00.001+13:00

Please could you ask Jamie to email his Mum asap regarding my latest emails to him

Thanx Mat

Gina Small

Regards since 1972 trusted solutions.
Lance Barker
Account Manager ph 0275-980- 724

ANCHOR WIRE LIMITED www.anchorwire.co.nz
Ph; (09) 2666-666

No photos tonight

2008-10-04T22:35:00.001+13:00

Dear All,

I'm sorry I seem to be unable to post photos tonight and have to go to bed now. It's 2.30am mainland time. Will do tomorrow.

Mrs.B

Master Llwellyn spinning another Rhyme

2008-10-04T21:56:00.001+13:00

Toad in name

But not in form

Grateful parents to acclaim

Wondrous feats beyond the norm

To the USA the Blues went

Glittering lights and glamorous girls

Through Toad's great energy spent

The Blues Bros enjoy these American pearls

Heartfelt thanks from parents earned

Exotic places and great people to meet

Hopefully Toad's great lesson they have learned

Good old Godzone is hard to beat

Master Llewellyn

A Change in Timezone

2008-10-04T21:54:00.000+13:00

Hi all,

A quick message from the Tour IT Team. Due to the change in location and timezone the daily blog will most likely feature a couple of hours or so later each evening. This is the only way we can ensure that we maximise the daily sunshine and tan our bodies to an optimal shade that ensures we re-enter NZ making you all feel extremely jealous.

Keep the blogs coming- love your work Mummys

Anon

Days of Future Past

2008-10-04T21:51:00.001+13:00

This morning we said farewell to our fine friends at Santa Margarita and headed to the airport via Venice Beach. Venice is a fascinating area inhabited by freaks and deeks, social misfits and a good sprinkling of twisted faces. The first 'item' we encountered was an elderly fellow with a billboard proclaiming that he was the worlds greatest alcoholic and to reinforce this he repeatedly sang "Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, help me get drunk". He obviously writes his own script. The place is alive however with a range of tacky stalls that weren't classy enough to entice our boys into mass mania.

Following this we headed to LAX and began the long tedious, arduous security procedure which has become even more complicated since our last two visits. The inevitable happened; Matt Dyer was apprehended by security and taken to an interrogation room following the discovery of two fake bullets in his hand luggage. I was pleasantly surprised at the state which Matt emerged from this traumatic experience as I had expected him to be most upset and in tears. Instead, he apologised for the inconvenience to the team and said that he found it rather amusing having three gorilla type individuals playing the heavy handed bad cop, bad cop, bad cop over what was obviously a child's toy. I guess security needs to have its live practice, rather than repeatedly reading the 9/11 review manual.

Once on the plane the sight was quite amazing. Every lad (and most staff) without exception was sound asleep before take off. This shopping caper takes it out of you! The five hour flight wasn't a hardship and we have all arrived in Hawaii in one piece. However our arrival was not without its moments, after Sam Morreau managed to leave his passport on board and this proved to be difficult to retrieve.

Tonight Rodney had organised a dinner location, which in his words was "it's just around the corner" and as usual going on 'Gordon time', it was a ¾ hour walk. The boys are now tucked up in bed as they have yet another early start tomorrow before they enter into competition.

Now we have left the mainland we can all look back with much satisfaction and pleasure on the experiences that we have encountered. It goes without saying that the hospitality in all four locations was superb, and the hands of friendship were fully extended. The boys who have made the most notable social progress have of course been those who started very much behind the eight ball before departing New Zealand. At the other end of the spectrum the leadership skills shown by many of the senior lads has been most encouraging. An adventure such as this, is tailor made, in regards to character building and developing independence. This has very much been the case so far this tour.

The boys continue to impress their hosts and the general public with their behaviour. Whilst waiting for our flight at LAX the adults were addressed by an elderly lady who was full of praise for two of our boys, Jordan Hurunui and James Watt, who had given up their seats in MacDonald's for her and a friend. She said that this practice was a forgotten art and that the school, and their parents were to be congratulated on the product they had produced. Also, whilst in flight, I was told by a senior flight attendant that this group of boys was the best he had experienced in his 23 years of flying. I guess you can fool some of them, some of the time, and the rest of them all of the time!

We now have a five night stay in one place which is very much a luxury on this tour and although it has been a fantastic experience for all the lads, they are getting rather tired. The constant demand on us all socially and physically has taken its toll. Mums, let your boys sleep in, first morning back.

Hero of the Day: Jonesy who managed to go back through security and return, after retrieving an expensive item which was left outside the terminal at the bus drop off point. We had gone to a lot of trouble to get this particular item, and had we lost it, we would have condemned ourselves for years to come. However, a bit of Welsh wizardry saved the day as he was also instrumental in retrieving Sam's passport. Well done Jonesy!

Quote of the day: "Venice Beach make Hollywood Boulevard look like Disneyland", Mrs. B.

The Toad

Good Luck

2008-10-04T14:56:00.001+13:00

Hey guys - well done on the numerous accolades for your good behaviour! We wish you luck for your upcoming events and a safe homeward bound journey. We will miss the entertainment we have been receiving via the blog site once you return and again a heartfelt thank you to all involved in the organisation of this trip.

Hope you won't let the reminiscing of Hooters get in the way of fourth term and school work!!! Back to the real world before you know it!!!

Miss you to bits T-man.

Love Mummy, Daddy and Big Sis

xoxoxoxo

IT Man Come Home

2008-10-04T10:19:00.001+13:00

Hi Team

We are loving the blogsite, a must read every evening. Well done Matt for helping set it up. Have a great time in Hawaii.

IT man we need you home. Dad's mobile won't sync with email; your sister is panicing cos she couldn't print her exams; sky tv is on the blink; we can no longer hack into the neighbour's network and the micochip we implanted in the cat has gone awol. IT man come back!

Luv Mummy and Dad Dyer.

Parents take a Bow

2008-10-03T20:08:00.001+13:00

It is with great delight that the anonymous email department of the AGS Tour Party acknowledge and thank the large volume of blogs being posted by the parents, family members and friends of the touring squad.

The bus erupted into laughter and screams of "Mummy's Boy" this morning- a tradition we hope to foster in the coming days, so please keep your emails coming.

In order to not disappoint, and being the servant that I am (!!) herein lies a random email plucked from the depths of our archives for serious deliberation:

Yeah great to get your email and also into blogspot. What an amazing way to keep up your group's travels. It sounds like you are all having an awesum time, with fun, shopping, sightseeing, meeting great people and claiming some excellent results in the running arena. Tell those boys you don't need a wife cause you got the best mother in the world haha. Keep having an awesome time.

Love Mum Skeen

Enough said

Good Night

Anon?

Ethan Moser- You maake me sick!!

2008-10-03T19:58:00.000+13:00

Rodney,

I hope you won't check your email until you get home, but I just wanted you to know how much our boys enjoyed yoru visit. See message below from a very happy host parent.

See you soon!

Chad

To: Mr. Chad Evans

Coach Evans: We just wanted to let you know that our family thoroughly enjoyed hosting Ethan Moser this week. He was an exceptional house guest. Polite, witty, inquisitive, and an extremely well-behaved young man. He represented his team, school, and of course his family very well. It was a great learning experience for our family, and we would hope, for Ethan as well.

We would also hope you have the opportunity to pass this along to Ethan's coach and trip sponsors, who can let Ethan's family know that we enjoyed meeting him, and what a fine young man they have raised.

We congratulate Auckland Grammar and SI for putting together such a great program, and thank you for letting us participate.

Best regards,

John and Beth Powers

Message to Cam

2008-10-03T19:57:00.000+13:00

Hi Debbie

Just a message for Cam. We are currently in Queensland, have received
his emails and read the blog site, very entertaining.
Sounds like all are having a wonderful time.

Look forward to hearing/reading more.

Geoff and Kim Burstall

Pasadena Tribute

2008-10-03T19:55:00.000+13:00

The below is an email from the hosts of our welcoming BBQ at Pasadena Polytechnic High School 2 days ago:

Hi Debbie and Scott,

Had a lot of fun reading the blog. We enjoyed you all and truly your kids are great. They are polite, considerate, and very well behaved. Please congratulate all the parents and teachers on a job well done!

Thanks again for the wonderful gifts I shall cherish it for a long time.

Gargi

Laguna Linguistics vs. Shop til we Drop

2008-10-03T19:51:00.001+13:00

Have you ever lifted a piece of rotten wood and observed 4,360,243 cockroaches scarpering in every direction known to mankind? Well, this analogy is what happens when our bus pulls up outside a shopping mall. In an earlier blog I referred to them as loci. I now believe I’ve done this make of vertebrae an injustice. It is truly a sight to be seen. Like a pack of prehistoric beasts they then return to their nest with their captured conquests. Everything from stick-on tattoos, with slogans such as “Coach Gordon Rocks”, to brilliantly coloured drink bottles shaped like Helen Clark.

We again let our chargers loose at yet another shopping centre and watched a repeated performance of the above. Following this, we travelled to Laguna Beach and the troops had an enjoyable day on and off the water experiencing Southern Californian hospitality and sunburn. Unfortunately the main culprits regarding this tanning process were Daniel Smith, Matt Morreau, Jamie Small and a certain Head Coach who fell asleep on the beach and now resemble something left behind on the Distance Squad BBQ tray.

A message to all parental physicians: YOU are practising in the wrong country. This is what happened to The Frog on arrival to Laguna Beach. He required an ear dredging de-wax; a simple process that usually involves only a nurse. Usually the nurse takes 3-4 minutes and this is done at no charge. However this is America! After completing four lots of documentation whereby I was summoned from the waiting room on three separate occasions to be interviewed, regarding my concerns I had almost given in. On the fourth summons I was placed in a holding pen and then interviewed by seven different doctors, six of these asked the same two questions . . . What is wrong? And are you prepared to pay for the treatment? The seventh doctor obviously was the accountant and she came in bartering in regards to my waxed ear assuring me I had the ability to walk out during any stage in the proceedings and not receive treatment. So four and a half hours later and $250 in arrears a tiny piece of wax lay orphan like in the bottom of a plastic container. The medical procedure had taken exactly 128 seconds but the bickering over the price lasted in excess of over 4 hours. I now have come to appreciate the medical fraternity in NZ and for the many who constantly complain, I strongly suggest they attend a similar facility over here with say an in-grown toe nail, or even worse, a dodgy ticker.

Whilst I was suffering in the depths of despair, young Jack Moody was also creating quite a storm in the medical department today. In fact I would like to note that it was Jack who kept the bus waiting 90 minutes past its departure time late this afternoon as he was attended to by a fine looking female doctor, whom I might mention caught the eye of young Benny Boy Skeen. It would be found out that Little Jack actually had a sore toe even though the pain was originating in his abdomen. Needless to say he is recovering quickly to a state of extraordinary health.

This evening we were hosted at a magnificent function in the home of Tom and Mary Normandin and quite frankly the hospitality shown by Santa Margarita has once again gone beyond incredible and is now embarrassing. The outstanding work by Dave Zeitler and Bruce Whisnant (the Booster Club President) has resulted in an incredible stay for all concerned. We strongly recommend they return to NZ in the near future and bring their female contingent with them. For some reason I believe finding billets for this group will not be difficult. A sincere thanks to Santa Margarita.

Tomorrow we depart for Hawaii and our thoughts will turn to our homecoming. The boys are in great shape, although like the staff the continuous on-the-go and the tight itinerary has been extremely physically demanding.

Sadly we send our apologies to all for not posting a photo of Leo’s adventures today. We would like to say that Leo took a well earned break, however the reality is Daniel Jackson had a relapse in his Alzheimer’s condition. He claimed it was because he was up at 4.30am with his billet to go throwing toilet paper over a neighbouring billets property as a revenge act (which in hindsight was verified by the host parents) however this excuse hasn’t sat well with the boys. It is fair to say Dan is one step away from flying home directly to NZ, skipping Hawaii along the way.

Quote of the Day: From Scott Burridge on arrival at a shopping complex that had not yet opened . . . (out of ear shot of wife Deb) he was heard to say “This is the way I like Shopping Malls . . . closed!”

The Toad

Mr Universe (criteria for entry; no chest, no biceps, no quads, no calves... and the winner is...)

2008-10-03T19:51:00.000+13:00

When there's trouble in the neighbourhood, who ya gunna call - ghost busters!

2008-10-03T19:46:00.001+13:00

Mixing it up with our friends from Santa Margarita

2008-10-03T19:29:00.000+13:00

Boys will be boys - oh how seaweed can be so scary!

2008-10-03T19:24:00.000+13:00

Soaking in the sights and sounds of the Playboy mansion

2008-10-03T19:20:00.000+13:00

Not quite the Brazilian female team but they're all right anyway.

2008-10-03T18:59:00.001+13:00

Elliot Martin

2008-10-03T13:29:00.001+13:00

HI Elliot I wont be in the States till next Tuesday and have to go strait to Nevada, so wont be able to catch up till your back.It sounds like a lot of fun is being had by all I look forward to hearing all the stories see you back home.

Dad

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2008-10-02T22:07:00.000+13:00

Alright then Mr. Skeen - maybe no wife - but you must at least "go for the girl friend" - where have I heard that before!!!...and we want lots of photo's!

How does San Margarita get its name...I wonder - Iets hope your not going via the Heineken Valley to get to San Pellegrino!!

Can we get lots of photos of Laguna Beach (preferably no EMO's)- and are Bay Watch on patrol?

Keep the updates coming

"Love Mummy" and a message for Sam ...Bella sends her love - LOL!

Hi from the mouse house

2008-10-02T21:36:00.001+13:00

It looks like you had a tough run to the Hollywood sign but we didn’t see any photos of the actual sign and we do know it is closed to the public- is it a Toad hoax?

I’m sure that Ranbow’s End will never be the same after “the farm”. They tell me that Hawaii is a lovely clean state and the airports do not let any animals in – including the odd mouse. They set mouse traps –be careful

Love Mmmy

Hello to Jamie

2008-10-02T21:29:00.003+13:00

Hi Jamie

Ricki-Lee, Corey, Sean, Lynne and Cormac, Opa and Oma,
porsche, boo, mercy and maddie all say absolutely fantastic
result on your Stanford Race. We are following your every
move and love seeing the photos. We understand that your
USA mum is following your exploits as well (Hi Karyn) and
remember while in her zip code she rules:) Is there a
reason for us not hearing about your usual antics, or are
you keeping under the radar?

Missing you lots, love you long time.

Mummy xox

Well Deserved Fun

2008-10-02T21:29:00.001+13:00

Fantastic writing Toad-we get the full picture of the daily events in great humourous detail.Well done all you Hollywood Sign Runners-40 degrees and 8 miles.Sam Green announced to his facebook friends that -quote...."I nearly died today! "....was that of exhaustion or over eating! A well deserved day of fun today at Knotts. Have a blast at Laguna Beach. Sam Green...Dont forget It 's my birthday today !!!...Mum (Jenny)

2008-10-02T20:57:00.003+13:00

Regards since 1972 trusted solutions.
Lance Barker
Account Manager ph 0275-980- 724

ANCHOR WIRE LIMITED www.anchorwire.co.nz
Ph; (09) 2666-666

re Racing

2008-10-02T20:57:00.001+13:00

Regards since 1972 trusted solutions.
Lance Barker
Account Manager ph 0275-980- 724

ANCHOR WIRE LIMITED www.anchorwire.co.nz
Ph; (09) 2666-666

Hi there

Your travels are making great reading and well done to Toad for his command of the English language!

Its been wonderful hearing how fantastic the hosts are to you guys and how lucky you all are too to be able to see and do so much

The racing is the icing on the cake and you’ve done the school proud with your achievements

Does Stanford give medals to individuals or teams?You all deserve a medal for your participation

All the best for the rest of the trip

From Mummy Small

Sweet Sixteen

2008-10-02T20:02:00.001+13:00

Well Done to you all! Bridget and I have enjoyed all the tour highlights so far and I’m sure there is more to come.

Tomorrow NZ time (October 3) marks a special day in our lives, and certainly in the life of Timothy Rossiter Yates. “TRY” turns Sweet Sixteen tomorrow, but has he been kissed? Perhaps by one of those Hooters girls?

Hope you all have a great day and make sure he gets a good send-off.

Kiss Kiss from Mummy & Daddy…..

Nick & Bridget Yates

Santa Margarita web site - "Hails the Toad"

2008-10-02T18:50:00.001+13:00

The cross country website from Santa Margarita welcomes our team. The link is below:

http://smeaglesxctf.org/xc/

When AGS and SM meet - a connection draped in history

2008-10-02T18:33:00.001+13:00

"I thought this was meant to be fun"

2008-10-02T18:29:00.000+13:00

The new "Back Street Boys"

2008-10-02T18:25:00.000+13:00

The Management committee meeting hits stormy waters

2008-10-02T18:21:00.000+13:00

How can they look so happy?

2008-10-02T18:17:00.000+13:00

Leo's minder day 8

2008-10-02T18:14:00.001+13:00