Coaches blog #2 from Tony Bull in Italy.
Buongiorno
Well we are settled in Riva with three days training under our belt. We have had some big sessions, the amazing part of this location is how pleasant it is to sail here.
Back in oz our sessions are usually about 1.5 hours before the kids begin to slow down and lose a bit of interest (usually signified by sociable chat between the boats). But here we have had two x 3.5 hours sessions on water with two ten minute breaks to simulate a three race day with the sailors working hard.
Today was a shorter 2.5 hour session, we also got in two practice races against the Germans and were very competitive. Nice to see but counts for naught in reality.
Looking ahead we have a couple more training days, I think we will do a long session today. Mainly drills and a bit of flirting with other countries on water. It all helps just to be out on the water and acclimatising to wave patterns and fresh water sailing. Then I think a rest day may be in order to freshen up before regatta.
These are conditions where hard work rate reaps rewards, and we want our team energised and alert. Sailing hard and maintaining awareness.
Personally I am very pleased with how we are coming together. The kids are responding well and the shore support under team manager Chris Manton is exceptional.
There is not much to discuss on weather, it is the same each day, bloody magnificent! Hope it holds up for all of next week.
Ciao Bully
