THE true meaning of the name Blue Veins is shrouded under a “veil of ambiguity” if you aks organiser Rex Kermode.
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But it doesn’t change the fact that Kermode and his band of golden oldies rugby union mates are pumped for their annual carnival.
This year marks the 15th annual rugby carnival for the team and the many visitors who shake off the cobwebs and take part.
You could be forgiven for thinking that games between the older blokes might be a bit soft, but it’s not the case Kermode said.
“Anyone who thinks it is touch footy is way wrong,” Kermode said.
“We tell people to run as hard as they want to be tackled: if you want to go hard you’ll get put on your butt.”
The players are 35 and over, but are some of the most experienced players from around the region and provide an exceptional display of skills.
Braidwood is a new addition to the ranks this year, and Kermode said Cooma should have a squad ready for next year.
Players will also reminisce over memories of pinging props, hookers with cauliflower ears scoring and the hair styling of the back rowers from days gone by.
As the proud owner of “two brand new knees”, Kermode can no longer play, but as event organiser is obliged to stay at the pub with teams.
“My wife drops me off at the pub on Friday and picks me up on Sunday morning.”
The Tathra Pub will be the starting point for the carnival tonight with the crab races.
“Whales have been organised to swim past below the hotel verandah about 9am Saturday,” Kermode said with a laugh.
Games will begin about 11.30am tomorrow at the Tathra Country Club fields.
Most squads take part in three 45 minute games.
“There is usually some war cries and all that [expletive deleted], then we get into it,” Kermode said with a laugh.
The aim of the game is fun, with the score always finishing at 2-2.
Special rules apply for players in their 60s, 70s and over 75, who will be marked in different coloured shorts.
Number eights also have to stay bound and not pick up the ball from the back of a scrum.
“This rule was introduced to prevent Blue Vein Michael Crowley from stuffing up a perfectly good backline movement,” Kermode said.
Despite the laughs and fun, sport is the focus of the day with play wrapping up in time for the running of the Cox Plate.
However, anyone who has any energy left by the end of the day can take part in the Barbarians game ahead of presentations.
Kermode said he was delighted to see the continued success of the yearly carnival.
“I am very happy, because our aim is to have as many people and play and have no serious injuries.
“We want to see everyone enjoy themselves, but do it safely.”
Spectators are more than welcome to head along and watch the action at the Tathra Country Club fields tomorrow from 11.30am.