Any thought that the touring party would require a full mornings sleep was dispelled as signs of life started as early as 6am!! I wonder if they are as keen as this when they are heading for a day in school!
A nice stroll to the University of Washington's Football facilities worked off the breakfast as well as an impromptu game of Last Man Standing in the impressive Dempsey indoor arena. It was a bonus to see the Washington Huskies being put through their paces in the equally impressive Husky stadium.
It was then time for the first training session of the tour. This gave the boys a chance to get the long day of travelling yesterday out of their system. The only obstacles in their way today were the sprinklers on the pitch- although Mr Morrow didn't manage to notice them!
A return to the 'all you care to eat' cafeteria for lunch was fitted in just before our first visit to downtown Seattle where we "Rode the ducks". The touring party provided a great half hours entertainment while we were waiting, serenading the staff with classics such as "I love you baby" and "You've lost that loving feeling" much to the delight and amusement of those around! Captain Clem Chowder then took half the group on the tour whilst his compatriot Sid E Slicker took the other half! An American family were so impressed by the entertainment that they requested to join one of our boats! The tour gave us an insight into some historical aspects of Seattle as well as finding out it was the home of Boeing, Starbucks and Bill Gates. We also saw the famous houseboat which appeared in the film Sleepless in Seattle. It was also good to meet up with past pupil Michael Irvine (Mr Irvine's son) as well as his wife Ursula and mum Florence.
Once we finished, it was straight to the Space Needle which gave fantastic panoramic views of Seattle. The Rocky Mountains and the Cascade Mountains provided a beautiful back drop to the city. Full credit to Mr Gunson who overcame his fear of heights to reach the top of the Space Needle.
Free time in Seattle followed and a tired group returned to the university accommodation to conclude a long and fun-filled day!
A nice stroll to the University of Washington's Football facilities worked off the breakfast as well as an impromptu game of Last Man Standing in the impressive Dempsey indoor arena. It was a bonus to see the Washington Huskies being put through their paces in the equally impressive Husky stadium.
It was then time for the first training session of the tour. This gave the boys a chance to get the long day of travelling yesterday out of their system. The only obstacles in their way today were the sprinklers on the pitch- although Mr Morrow didn't manage to notice them!
A return to the 'all you care to eat' cafeteria for lunch was fitted in just before our first visit to downtown Seattle where we "Rode the ducks". The touring party provided a great half hours entertainment while we were waiting, serenading the staff with classics such as "I love you baby" and "You've lost that loving feeling" much to the delight and amusement of those around! Captain Clem Chowder then took half the group on the tour whilst his compatriot Sid E Slicker took the other half! An American family were so impressed by the entertainment that they requested to join one of our boats! The tour gave us an insight into some historical aspects of Seattle as well as finding out it was the home of Boeing, Starbucks and Bill Gates. We also saw the famous houseboat which appeared in the film Sleepless in Seattle. It was also good to meet up with past pupil Michael Irvine (Mr Irvine's son) as well as his wife Ursula and mum Florence.
Once we finished, it was straight to the Space Needle which gave fantastic panoramic views of Seattle. The Rocky Mountains and the Cascade Mountains provided a beautiful back drop to the city. Full credit to Mr Gunson who overcame his fear of heights to reach the top of the Space Needle.
Free time in Seattle followed and a tired group returned to the university accommodation to conclude a long and fun-filled day!