Its Crazyman time

CrazymanRichard & Elina UssherMultisport

Every year the Crazyman either kops it from the Wellington weather or narrowly dodges a bullet. This year we kind of kopped it. Chilly and wet is never a fun way to start a big race especially when you're the camera crew but big thanks to Tony Mienen and Cameron Williams for keeping the energy levels up on a dreary old day. We as the production team are always going to suffer when things get changed at the last minute and with these events things ONLY get changed at the last minute. So when the Kayak course got changed to the b-course we knew it would be a more challenging day. Less time at the startline to find our key interviews, more people on course, closer together (this is actually a blessing and a curse) and the need to be in four places at once with only three cameras. All we can do in that situation is our best, so we dug it in and got around as quickly and efficiently as we could.

We've spent quite a bit of time with Richard and Elina Ussher this year, and they both made the trip over from Nelson for the race. There's a lot to admire about these guys. Two of the most dedicated athletes you will ever meet and two of the nicest people with it. Unsurprisingly, being the only professional racers on the startline the won by miles but the overwhelming response from the other competitors was pleasure at lining up alongside them. Nobody minds coming second behind Richard Ussher.

One of the challenges to covering Multisport races is getting a shot that's long enough to make up for the fact that you might only get three or 4 shots in total. In the bush where visibility is limited that generally means running with the athletes. It's a 'Bourne Ultimatum' 'shakycam' look. Running with Richard Ussher through two inches of mud over tree roots and through branches while trying to keep an eye on the camera framing is almost impossible .The guy is quick. It was very considerate of Rich to take a dive over his handle bars and blow out a tire on the MTB section so we could actually get a good shot of him.

This is an event that's been on the endurance sport calendar for 21years, it's proudly supported by some very loyal sponsors and most importantly by many, many competitors. Good on all of you for keeping it alive and well. We love covering it and meeting the few competitors we get to meet on the day.

Race website: www.crazyman.co.nz