KEY POINTS:
The Auckland Blues were found well out of their depth yesterday in their last, and most gruelling training session of the year.
Surf lifesaving legend Cory Hutchings hosted a practice in the waves at Mairangi Bay, running the Blues players into the sand with an intense series of exercises.
Conditioning coach Mark Harvey said the annual excursion was a welcome break from the rugby field, but the setting belied the difficulty of the workout: &34;The boys love the beach and the support of the public. But they weren't feeling so flash five minutes into the session.
&34;Cory is a sportsman, one of the most professional I know. He knows how to get the best from athletes. The boys have not experienced anything like that in the last 3 weeks.&34;
The 40& 45;minute practice is designed to take the players out of their comfort zone, and improve recovery time and overall fitness. The Blues are hosted by Surf Life Saving New Zealand once a year, and pay a donation for the workout.
