Yesterday I learnt that I and Spotty (PitCrew) are the recipients of GPSTC Encouragement Award for June 2008.
My prize is from Hydrodynamix and is on it way to me. At this stage I do not know what the prize is but will let you know when it arrives. The efforts that I put up to achieve this award pale into insignificance against Spotty with his 259km marathon.
This announcement coincides with my 72nd birthday and I feel that the occasion calls for a response.
Although I do not need encouragement to go windsurfing I am honoured to accept this award. I do need tips and advice on how to improve my technique and from time to time I receive this from members, and it is always appreciated. Lyn and I are members of the FNQ Mob team and our team captain is Bob Vaillant (aka Firie Bob) who I regard as a mentor. Windsurfing came into our lives in 1987 but it was not till we joined the GPSTC that I realized what my limitations are. Suddenly they were quantified before me as a set of numbers. Now I constantly search for ways to improve these numbers.
Fitness is high on my priorities and to this end I usually do 30 minutes of exercise each morning and then if weather permits I cycle for 20 to 30 km.
I have various set courses to ride with one I call 4 Hills. This one is 20k and includes 4 steep hills usually avoided by cyclists. Other courses are more undulating but go further.
Life has not always been a bed roses and since 1995 I have had over 50 hospital procedures, mostly concerning Cancer. I believe that I am now cured of this but I am well monitored.
Both of us voluntarily give computer lessons to senior citizens.
Well I hope I have not prattled on too much and would like to take the opportunity to encourage any of you that may be pushing the years a bit to keep up with windsurfing or other sports and keep you minds active.
And thank you to Hydrodynamix.
Herb you are an inspiration to all of us, that's why you got the award!!!!!!!!!!!!
Well done Herb (and Lyn)
You encourage us.
Big Happy Birthday
Hope the winds are good today and they are nice and warm
great work, good to hear from someone so positive. Windsurfing keeps you young I reckon.
Herb you're the man, I'm proud to have you & Lyn in our team, you two are the backbone of FNQM and have pulled us out of the poo heaps of times 
You two are also a great example to the "Life Wastes" out there mate 
Happy Birthday Young Fella
Happy Birthday Herb, Carol and I are looking forward to seeing you and Lyn later in the year when your down this way.
Happy Birthday young gun
Yep agree with Bob, you two keep him honest
Well done on your award, it is well deserved
