EVENT 4: CRUCIFIX HOLD
The crucifix hold event was in the form of two replica battle axes that had to be held at arm's length for maximum time. The axes were fairly light at about 12.5 kg (27.5 lb) each and none of the athletes had any trouble in reaching respectable times. The shortest time of the day was just below 27 seconds, for instance. I do have to add that refereeing was very lenient and a few guys got away with very sloppy form.
The two juniors, Willem and Driko, once again had a big battle going between them and this time Driko managed to beat Willem into third overall by lasting 44 seconds to Willem's 40.7 seconds. As luck would have it, I was drawn last for this event, which really helped. Johan set a target of 52.3 seconds which I managed to beat with 1 minute and 1 second. He did look very relaxed for the largest part of his attempt and I was surprised when he called it a day at below one minute. The final result could obviously have looked different had he been chasing my time instead of the other way round.
Below are a few shots taken during the crucifix hold. Clicking on the thumbnails will produce larger images:
| Garnett, seconds after getting the whistle |
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Pieter showing impeccable form |
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| Me, with Willem spotting |
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A determined Driko |
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| Eugene with the axes |
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Jerry, fighting for every second |
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| Johan was relaxed enough to chat to the crowd! |
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Trichardt doing the first crucifix hold of his career |
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| Willem feeling the shoulders burn |
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