My Other Obsession
It’s that time of the year again. Spring has almost turned into summer. It’s getting warmer, and the days are definitely getting longer. But I’m not thinking of picnics on the beach. No. I’ve got more important things on my mind.
Finally, the 2011/2012 New Zealand National League football season has kicked off. My team, Auckland City F.C. played their first home game on Sunday at Kiwitea St, Sandringham. And they didn’t disappoint the home fans. They won 4-2 against Team Wellington. Auckland City FC play an attractive passing game. It’s a pleasure to watch. And there’s nothing like seeing the ball hitting the back of the net and the listening to the crowd go wild. The Spanish coach has had a big influence. He has recruited well this year. A number of the players are from Spain. In December the team will be heading off to Japan to play in the FIFA Club World Cup. Last time they went, they beat the best team from Africa. We have high expectations hopes that they will repeat that success this time too.
The number 2 football fan of the household and I scooted there on our bicycles. No drama. Through the park. Down the quiet side roads. He is a lot more self contained than his sister. I don’t feel the need to be so protective. We keep a greater distance. I’m surprised that he seems happy to ride slowly. My expectation was that he would be all speed and sweat. There is no doubt that he could ‘whip my butt’ in a race but no, it’s a transport thing when we are heading to watch our team play.
Of the 1000 or so people there, we were the only ones to arrive by bike. Strange, but then again, this is Auckland. Aucklanders don’t do cycling for transport very well, apparently. The focus seems to be in the domain of sport and recreation.
So there you go. Bicycles are a big part of my life. But just as a transport tool these days. A means to an end.
Cycling-the non-vehicular way.
