Written by Member Mr James Tate
Every Friday morning, when the only sounds on Elizabeth Street are garbage trucks and street sweepers, a dedicated group walks through the brass doors and onto the mezz to self-inflict the discipline which only the “Iron maiden” – the Concept 2 rowing machine – can dispense. There are religious orders which follow similar, if slightly more contemplative, processes and, for some participants, a childhood of religious discipline may contribute to their attendance. All, however, agree there’s something rewarding in hard work being done together with discipline and commitment. Individual on one level but teamwork and shared effort on the other.
Last Friday morning saw the 13th edition of the Christmas Cup, Tatts ergo challenge over a handicap distance at a set rating. The familiar faces once again filled the seats but this year featured our largest and most welcome female contingent. These newer members have shown such commitment and effort that they took pride of place.
The Handicapper had a tough time. Newer members, just learning the art of the erg but supported by big hearts and engines, improved markedly over a short period and challenged the Handicapper to assess how much “blue sky” was left in their performances. The eternally competitive regulars never let the opportunity go by without an effort. It took the Handicapper nearly 2 bottles of 2010 Art Series Chardonnay to settle on the assigned targets. Not a cheap night but he felt well pleased with his work going into racing.
In Heat 1, the gauntlet was thrown by Melbourne expat, Michael Guilday. As a lawyer in the Fish Market redevelopment, he spends most of his day negotiating the mysterious transfer of cash between European families of interest. He was to be challenged by “les trois ballons”, JV Edstein and the People’s Champion, Martin McConnell, both of whom had substantial distance to make up against the efficient forms of Nichole Donovan and Ianina Belski. Heat 1 bookmakers, Dodd and Tancred, were showing even-money prices, but a quick look at their tickets indicated Guilday had value.
Heat 2 featured a broad range led by last year’s runner-up, Moree’s Danielle Pringle and the Freshwater pair of the Undertaker, Peter Obern and Tatts’ Piastri, Harry Gosper. Heat 2 bookmakers, Shepherd and McLachlan, had “smart” money on Annaliese Norsworthy, Adelaide’s finest with strong form in leadups, excellent technique and a substantial engine under pressure.
The Handicapper assess target distances equating to a 20-minute effort. In the fierce final minutes, when lungs are bursting and dark recesses explored, the willingness is tested. Guilday completed in 18:54.2 with Norsworthy an agonising two strokes behind 18:59.6. Outstanding efforts marginally separated in distance but not determination.
Congratulations Michael Guilday on having your name engraved. A distance of 4724m in that time is not up for dispute and Norsworthy’s 4478m under 19 minutes is exceptional.
So, the Blade greets yet another new winner. Congrats, Michael, but if the Handicapper’s history is evidence, the next win will be a fair time away. What is not in dispute is the outstanding effort of all participants. Another year done.
“Hands Away!”
