Update

Hi all,

With a rewarding sabbatical having finished, I tried explaining to US Customs that having been in the US less than two days earlier, I had no intention of transporting illegal goods or being involved in criminal activity. Such questions however set me up brilliantly for the large task ahead . . . finding out (purely for your benefit) what has happened during my absence.

Now, from what I can ascertain the young chargers arrived in Hollister full of hopes and dreams. Apparently they were met by an outrageously enthusiastic group of Hollister youth (mainly female). Our boys decided to further NZ / US relations as Coach Jordan noted by welcoming the increased attention. As such, the reports below are 100% fact (for a change) and I sincerely hope that the following statements of truth will set many of our touring party free.

1. R Martin held a young lady's hand right the way around the cross country course during the pre-race briefing and for every possible moment post it
2. H Kerr practically got married and has endured a very difficult breakup
3. A Meltzer had to claim he was scared of the dark as a local girl wanted the two of them to go on a romantic walk together at night. M Wallace suffers from the same fear.
4. K Madgwick spent the final night watching Avatar with a young lass, while the others weren't allowed to enjoy the movie
5. R Lockhart has swore ribs from excessive cuddling
6. Josh Ellis made a new friend- pity she still thinks his name is John

Complete appreciation to Tom Batts for being my eyes and ears. I physically feel sick at present by the actions I have uncovered through Tom's assistance. As Tom concluded "summer loving happens so fast".

Tonight I will be encouraging the 25 disgraceful young men to each take a very long look in the mirror.

In other news, Alcatraz was a massive hit, and San Francisco as a city is currently pumping this weekend (49ers and Giants both played at home today, Columbus Day is a public holiday tomorrow so there were street parades everywhere today, America's Cup racing was also on in the Harbour (although we missed that action). Simply name it and its on in San Francisco.

The boys have just returned from dinner with a 9:15pm lights out tonight as they all look in need of a good rest. Until tomorrow, please know we are all well.

Bye bye from a happy bunch of tourists

NB- I will source some photos of the race in Hollister and will upload in the upcoming 24hrs at the latest.