Carlton supporters were flying high after the victory over the Bulldogs on Sunday and on Tuesday Marc Murphy, Andrew Walker and Bryce Gibbs were also flying high with a special visit to Cirque du Soleil. The Carlton boys were invited by the Russian Swings performers to be involved in a training session and try their hand at some of the thrilling activities the performers undertake as part of the outstanding Cirque du Soleil show.

 

While Andrew Walker was quick to try his hand at the high flying act, Marc Murphy was happy to keep his feet on the ground suggesting that heights are not his go. As expected Bryce Gibbs, who had been named the round ten Rising Star 24 hours earlier, took it all in his stride, just as he has done in his debut season in the AFL.

 

The boys were amazed at the talent of the performers and couldn’t speak more highly of the coach who guided them through some of the routines explaining the finer points and reminding them that safety is the number one issue, much to Murphy’s relief.

 

“It is hard to explain just how talented these people are, they are amazing,” Marc Murphy said as he watched the Russian Swing performers in action in the training marquee of the Cirque du Soleil ‘village’.

 

Andrew Walker agreed, “I am amazed and am looking forward to coming along to see the entire show, I have heard it is amazing and after seeing this today I know it will be sensational.” All three players have booked to see the show before it finishes its Melbourne season later this month.

 

The highlight of the session was the high flying mark taken by Andrew Walker while flying through the air after being catapulted from the swing. While he was talking about his big grab, Marc Murphy was telling him that it was the good pass that allowed him to take the screamer.

 

The opportunity was made possible by Carlton’s joint major sponsor, Optus, who are also the major sponsor of Cirque du Soleil. Cirque du Soleil’s Varekai commenced in Melbourne in April and will finish its Melbourne season on June 24th. Varekai will then perform in Adelaide from July 5th to July 22nd before finishing the Australian tour in Perth from August 17th to September 16th 

 

*Image courtesy of Herald Sun