Laz, Thank you for posting this. I was away all week and finally got to watch it. I have to say, I liked the start. I am SOOOO glad that redemption went the way of the Dodo. I disliked redemption. Also glad its eighteen new castaways and no retreads.
I like the return to the truck filled with gear. I also love that Michael stole the ax. When I saw the ax come down, I thought that the ax was the best thing on the truck. Game On!!! I give props to Leif for immediately letting everyone know that he makes up for his size with strength and durability. Great mover, and he backed it up.
I think the women poorly played the chicken issue. Chelsea could have claimed ownership and said, I didn't agree to anything, you want one, give me back the ax you took, otherwise, happy hunting. They should have gone right over to camp and started work. Instead they showed right away that they are broken up and not playing as a unit. Its going to crush them if they keep showing their hands like that in public. Its a different game without a "safe" home camp to return to.
I like that the idol has to be given away right away. Its a good move. I think colton was the best choice since it will create havoc in the tribes. Colton is in a good spot if he plays the game right. Those 4 strong guys will start to get annoyed with each other quickly.
I have to give the Challenge team props for a great opening challenge. It was physical, yet also required dexterity. Who knows if the guys all would have made it across. While I felt badly for Kourtney (partly because she was the girl I was most attracted to and selfishly enjoyed her good looks) getting hurt, she just ignored the instructions. Jeff made it clear not to go arm first. She is lucky it was not far worse.
The men made the right call in winning the challenge. It's a game and you take every advantage that you can. Tribal was as I expected, a tribe without a true leader or a leading alliance. That will change, but not for a week or two more. So long Kourtney.
Good start.
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