Events

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Oceanbridge Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta - Viaduct - Monday 30 January 2012

Charlotte Mosa certainly enjoyed her first Anniversary Day Regatta ....

It was the most perfect day; the weather was very kind to us. It was great to see many new teams (some who travelled from out of town) join us this year. 23 teams and 4 races each gave everyone the opportunity to compete against all skill levels. Wairakei Dragons from Taupo gave 4 members of our team the chance to call and drum for them as they were short of a team member on the day. Big thanks to team members Jean, Kay, Judy and Deb G who embraced this opportunity to help out - quite a different perspective as none of the girls had done this before. The Regatta was well organised (thanks to Natalie and her crew from the Auckland DBA and to our President Deb who helped out with event organisation), enjoyable and hard work, but at the end of the day, we realised why we keep doing this. It was a terrific atmosphere and there is nothing like being on the water on such a day even if the results were a little disappointing. Thanks to all our families and friends who came to support us on the day. 

Hamilton Super 12 - Hamilton Lake - Saturday 3 December 2011

Newbie Catherine Rose reports for the first time about her first "Summer" regatta in the pouring rain....

We awoke at the crack of an hour before dawn with 2 blurry eyed dogs not quite sure what we were up to. It was too dark to see what the day looked like, but the weather man had not predicted it to be flash. Still there was the same sense of excitement I felt with my first regatta at Tauranga, 2 weeks before, only this time two other "newbies" were with us, Charlotte and Lyn (or "Tin" as she is now named due to Anne being left to decipher Sean's team list.) We all set up the tents and caught up with old friends and rivals. There was some discussion about the need to share extra team members to help each other out and make sure everyone had a go. It's great to see the bond of sisterhood amongst the BC teams although once we are out on the water it is clear we all fight tooth and nail to win. We had 4 mixed team races where we put up our best and held our own against some of the bigger, stronger teams thanks to the clever tactics of sweep and coach, Tucker and Sean. Some of our members were shared amongst our rivals and reported back with top secret information that we may have to use to our advantage in training sessions going forward. Tucker decided she is going to bring waterskis next time she sweeps for the White Tigers.

There were some random nasty squally showers coming through, one of which damaged the side walls of our tent. This made it necessary to remove them which meant there were lots of puddles and wet items around as Deb discovered when she sat on a chair and broke the world speed record leaping back up.

We were caught by surprise when they announced after lunch that we were in a semi final with 2 minutes warning and there was much scrambling to get the team organised and on board for our 4th race of the day. We managed to fight off the Librarians to take 3rd. The clouds rolled in just as we were about to start the BC final and with Sean as our sweep we gave it everything and more, even though the heavens opened and the rain came down as we neared the finish line. Sadly, we were just pipped for 2nd by the Pink Dragons by a matter of a few centimetres. Boobops won again, looking very strong, as they did in Tauranga. Our flower ceremony lost some of its beauty as we sat bedraggled in the pouring rain. Luckily that was us all done for the day so dry clothes and hot food were next on the "to do list." Everyone seemed to enjoy the day and the venue was great.

Finally, I must mention Pauline who, despite her health issues, both inspired and bullied us into what I felt was a level of performance we hadn't achieved in Tauranga. Onwards and upwards.......

Tauranga Super 12 - Lake Tauriko - Saturday 19 November 2011

"Dancing Queen" Jean Hindley shares some insight into this weekend away where all the fun & frivolity wasn't necessarily on the water ...

Our first eagerly anticipated 'away' regatta of the season has just taken place. 16 of our paddlers took part in this Super 12 , including 'newbie' Catherine who participated in her very first event. The day dawned with sunshine, bright blue skies and a stiff breeze. Arrival at the venue proved interesting for some when Debbie G in her cute Suzuki Swift decided that a little off-roading was called for, subsequently followed by several others in a convoy! The Corporate teams entered this year were varied, with some very apt outfits worn by the two medical teams and with limited practise opportunities for them, there were some very different techniques on display! The Breast Cancer final this year was held in the middle of the Regatta with 4 teams, Boobops, a combination team made up of members from the Waikato Treasure Chests and Taranaki Dragons, Pink Dragons and Busting With Life competing. The clear winners, in formidable form were Boobops with Busting With Life a close 3rd. While obviously not the result we had hoped for, it should prove an added incentive for us to attend regular training sessions and benefit from Sean's excellent coaching.

The choice of the Tauranga Citizens Club for our after-match function proved to be an excellent one with good food and entertainment. There were plenty of opportunities for our group, distinctive in our pink shirts of course, to shine on the dance floor with great enthusiasm, if not always with great skill! With Helen, the wonderful singer, using us as added entertainment, especially "Coach Sean" and "Dr Phil," and with Judy in particular and also Jean being honoured with invitations to dance with local gents, the evening was full of fun and laughter.

As usual there are lots of people to thank: Deb and the Committee members for all their background organisation; Tucker who did a marevellous job as sweep for the day; the Bay of Plenty hosts for their great organisation, particularly Boobops for the delicious goodie baskets; and finally a special thanks to Sean and Anne who managed to be there despite their imminent move to the North Shore.

Final words - a great weekend but plenty of fitness and technique work ahead to be able to challenge those Boobops at the Regionals and Nationals next year.

Splash 'n' Dash - Super 12 Westhaven - Sunday 6 November 2011

After missing a season with injury, we welcome back Eila Wild to report from her first regatta for quite a while......

We had a very happy Splash 'n' Dash, with 7 teams participating with enthusiasm. Everyone seemed very pleased to be out on the water, despite a sneaky Southerly breeze and an occasional skiff of rain. No doubt some of this was due to us now being able to be out there, after the delayed start to training occasioned by the RWC and our glorious All Blacks. The course was short - heading from the edge of the low tide to the luxury boats, and we worked with a will. There was opportunity for good training feedback from Sean, and some impromptu coaching earlier on from Captain Kelly. We all went home in very good spirits.

Black Paddle - Sunday 16 October 2011

Leslie, Rosemary, Jenny & Judith took part in the paddle for the All Blacks organised by Alisha from the Auckland Dragon Boat Association. We all wore black (our international uniforms were perfect for this) and paddled off from Westhaven to the Viaduct in 2 dragon boats with one boad shouting "All" and the other shouting "Blacks" when we entered the Viaduct. After keeping out of the way of various super yachts and craft going in and out of the area, we raced up and down the Viaduct towards the Loaded Hog three times shouting our chants and being videoed by Alisha at the same time. There were lots of people in the area as it was the day of the Wallabies v All Blacks semifinal for the Rugby World Cup so we got good public exposure as was the intention, but as we paddled out into the harbour again one of the boats was swamped by the ferry wake and promptly sank! Luckily we 4 were all on the other boat and were escoprted back to Westhaven by a Viaduct resuce boat while the ADBA rescue craft dealt with the sunken boat. Alisha's video was sent to the All Blacks apparently and she has put it on Facebook and the ADBA website for all to see.

Stand Up Paddle For Hope - Saturday 15 October 2011

Judith Overington "pinked" up for the occasion ....
A few Busting With Life members went along to support this event at the Viaduct but as there were a lot of helpers, we went around the crowds with Pink Ribbons asking for donations, while Jacque had a job time keeping for the races. There were 40 teams entered, all dressed up in various pink bling and the teams included some celebrities such as Barbara Kendall, Maggie Barry and people from TV. They raced in a relay course from the Wynyard Steps towards the Viaduct apartments then back under the Te Wero Bridge and back to the Steps. There was a huge international and local crowd in and around the area because it was the middle of the Rugby World Cup semifinals so the event got plenty of spectators. It was a great fun pink event and maybe in the future we could have some participants.

WIMA Pink Ribbon Ride - Sunday 2 October 2011

While some of us headed off the the Pools for an aquarobics session, some of the adrenalin junkies among us couldn't wait to participate in this year's WIMA Ride. Glenys Stewart fills us in......

What a fantastic way to promote awareness of breast cancer and to raise funds for a great cause. Over 300 bikes and riders took part in this event, with both bikes and riders decorated with loads of pink! This will probably be the only time you would see a "biker" in all his glory of black leather but with a pair of pink undies over his pants.  Several of our team members and supporters took part; on arrival at the start we were outfitted with helmets and jackets to make sure we were protected (just in case.)  For me, this was my first time back on a motorbike for over 20 years, and I got the opportunity to ride on the back of one of the Can-Am Spyders with John from JFK Motorcycles (one of the Sponsors.)  Judy also got to ride on a Spyder, with having the extra luxury and comfort of a fitted seat to rest on. Some got to ride on a Harley, and everyone enjoyed their chance to participate on whatever sort of motor bike.

I have forgotten how good it felt to have the breeze on your face through the helmet, and it has certainly given me the bug to want to ride a bike again since I used to back in my 'younger' days.  The riders were escorted by Police with pink ribbons on their bikes as well, and this was probably the only time every single light we went through was green (changed especially for us.) Being able to ride through Quay Street (Party Central) was a bonus as this was closed to all other traffic. It must have been an awesome sight for all the people out and about, in cars held up at intersections and people all out enjoying a Sunday morning stroll. Lots of cars tooted their horns and people clapped and waved as we went past.

On arrival at our destination of Western Springs, the team of event organisers from WIMA had the sausage sizzle and the coffee machines fired up and ready to go.  This was a very well organised event which ran very well.  They had a lot of sponsors' support and some great prizes were given out with the official entries from badge purchases.  Some of our team were lucky enough to win some great motorcycle gear (to wear next year, of course.) I will certainly be back to take part again next year.

2011 Season Opener - Saturday 24 Sepember 2011

Judith Overington reports back ...

We have just had our season launch get together at Columbus Cafe in their glass room. After coffee, muffins & scones, we listened to guest speaker, Marius Spencer, from Inlife Fitness, Health & Wellbeing. Marius spoke to the team about being motivated and starting the season with good fitness so that we can reach our goal at the Nationals. He gave us a few strength exercises to do using stretchy bands, chairs and park benches (exercises that we can all do regularly) and he even wore a pink shirt! Through Marius and Sean sharing ideas and with their enthusiasm, we all came away inspired for the upcoming season.

Flippin' Freezin' Super 12 - Sylvan Park Lake Pupuke - Saturday 20 August 2011

A group of hardy souls braved the mid Winter chill to blow the cobwebs away and take to the water to join in the fun of this pre-season splash 'n' dash.

A beautiful sunny & calm morning greeted us on the shores of Lake Pupuke. With beanies and thermals a must, we all enjoyed getting back on the water (and back to the shore for a hot cuppa!) for a taste of what the coming season will hold.

Thanks to Alisha and her crew from the Auckland DBA for organising an enjoyable morning.

National Championships - Blue Lake Rotorua - Saturday 26 March 2011

From a first year paddler's perspective, Erica Gilchrist shares her thoughts on her first National Regatta .....

When I joined the Busting with Life Dragon Boat crew at the beginning of the 2010/11 season, I was just 'giving it a go,' 'seeing how it went' .... but all the while 'getting hooked!'

The season culminated with the Nationals on the Blue Lake - a fantastic setting in spite of the misty, drizzly day that tended to keep us all close to our tents between races in order to stay warm. For me, it was a first to see the drums in action at the bow of each boat with the drummers perched on their precarious looking seats and that bought a whole sense of ceremony and heightened competition as the drum beats sounded out across the lake during each race.

We did not return victorious as, of course, we had wished, but the competition was exciting, the races well fought and the atmosphere memorable - created by the friendliness, humour and the fantastic support that appeared to exist between all competitors. The outstanding experience for me was the respect shown to the BC teams by all the general competitors - it's great to race you even though we pose you no threat and it is extra great to have your support as we race each other. It was fantastic to leave the lakeside after every race through a line of 'high fives' from all our competitors - a wonderful feature that makes dragon boating shine as a sport because it creates such a wonderful atmosphere of common ground even though we are all there to beat each other!!

It was a very wet day - warmer in the water than out of it and no chance of drying out between races, but now that I am home, warm and dry, and all my gear put away, I am feeling a little bereft that there is no more paddling for a while - not so sure that I want my Monday and Wednesday evenings back because the dragon boat experience has been a great one ... and fitness!! I love the fitness the season has brought me.

Sincere thanks to all who contributed to our team and to the general organisation - bring on the winter paddling.

 

Seasoned paddler, Jenny Terry, also contributes ...

We awoke to spots of rain which gradually got worse during the course of the day but the weather conditions did not affect the enthusiasm of the team. As usual, June donned her pink sheepskin slippers in spite of the wet and mud underfoot in our spacious tent. Matthew, our dedicated team photographer, arrived to a round of applause from the team. The racing was exciting and it was good to see a number of teams and supporters at the Blue Lake. In the 500m BC final, BWL came 2nd. Boobops beat us into first place by 0.04 of a second, or a Dragon's head. This race was followed by the flower ceremony which is always very moving. In the 200m splash and dash, BWL came third. This year, a new 2km race was introduced in which BWL came 4th. The dinner and prizegiving took place at the Rotorua RSA which proved to be a good venue. All the BC teams enjoyed breakfast together on Sunday morning at the Millenium Hotel. Sherrie from Casting for Recovery was guest speaker. Casting for Recovery is a fly fishing programme for breast cancer survivors which originated from the USA and is now available in NZ for those who wish to take up the challenge, thanks to the efforts of Sherrie and friends.
 

Auckland Regionals - Lake Pupuke - Saturday 19 March 2011

From her own 'Hood, Lesley Tucker reports on the day

Coach, mentor and friend, Sean is selected by the whole team as being our MVP - Most Valuable "Person" for today's event.

Lake Pupuke turned on its best day for racing in a long time for the Auckland Regional Dragonboat Champs. The water stayed calm all day and any wind was minimal.

Busting With Life is entered, along with other cancer survivor crews, in the Team Division; so we compete against mixed male and female crews in the early heats. We are no match for the big, powerful Lion Nathan, Hamilton Watersports and similar, crews, so have to fight our way along in their huge wakes.

Our times for these early races were well down on the other cancer crews, Boobops from Tauranga and Pink Dragons from Auckland, and also well below our own best. However, we approached the Breast Cancer Survivor's final with all the will, determination and concentration we could muster, as individuals and as a team.

It was an extremely tight race, with all three teams neck and neck for the whole 500 metres. At the finish it was not clear to any of the paddlers as to which team had triumphed. We linked boats for the Flower Ceremony afterwards. It was not until we reached shore that we found out that BWL was the winner, by 0.19 of a second. (BWL 2.39.26; Boobops 2.39.45; Pink Dragons 2.40.42)

We have regained the Cup from Boobops and now look forward to another epic battle in a week's time at the Blue Lake in Rotorua for the Nationals.

The new initiative to include a Ladies Only race saw us unexpectedly race for the 6th time at the end of the day against 3 other all ladies teams. Well done to all participants in this inaugural event which saw BWL come home 3rd in a time of 2.38.59

Thank you to our dedicated coach Sean, his supportive wife Anne, and all our family and friends and supporters.

Tauranga Regatta - The Lakes, Tauriko - Saturday 25 February 2011

Judy Kemp discovers there was more to this weekend away than "Eggs Bene" at the Mount Sunday morning ....

The team of Anne, Cathy, Chris, Debbie, Deb, Glenys, Irene, Jean, Jenny, Judith, Judy, June, Kay, Leslie A, Tucker, Linley, Margaret, Rosemary, Susan, Sean with Eila joining us as a supporter, eagerly travelled on Friday to Tauranga and nearby towns arriving at various times, and settled in for the night. Saturday morning dawned clear and warm and we all found our way to the new racing venue at The Lakes, Tauriko, and duly set up camp with help from the men folk.

Thanks to Graeme, Keith, Gary, Neil, Phil and Dave. Phil Ash also joined us in the evening after competing in a sailing regatta. Our mission was to defend and retain the cup the team had won in the previous event at Tauranga held two years earlier in 2009. Racing commenced at 9am and we competed in 3 races before we got prepared to hit the water after the lunch break for the BC RACE.

Pauline, Ron and the dog, Amber, arrived just prior to the race. Pauline was able to wish the team in the boat the best of luck and then joined the rest of us on the shoreline to cheer them on. They were off and the team performed well, only to be beaten into 2nd by BOOBOPS.

The moving joining together of the boats and linking of arms for those ashore was very emotional and a fitting tribute to those who have passed, and to Leonie from the Pink Dragons. I still find this part of the event truly amazing.

The revised Tauranga mission is to ensure we come back again in 2011 and grab the cup back again. In the meantime ..... we have other business to attend to!!

Another race and we all held our breath to see if we would make a final, and yes, joy oh joy, we did. The team in the boat again performed well and finished second to Comvita.

Sideline events/entertainment during the day:

Leslie A, not happy about the queue for the port-a-loo decided to head to the bushes - bad move Leslie, who ended up with 3 very sore stings.

Pauline & Ron brought a great marlin dip and crackers enjoyed by us all. It was great to catch up with them, and Amber also enjoyed all the attention.

Sean's wife Anne had her birthday over the weekend and we all tucked in to 2 very nice moist chocolate cakes to help celebrate her day.

Epilogue ....

Although disappointed with the outcome (winning is our target) we all joined together and enjoyed a fun evening, if somewhat eventful at the Zeytin On The Strand. We did finally get our dinner, athough Debbie G lost her bread after she offered it to her neighbour who then passed the plate on and it continued around the table and when when it got back to Debbie it was gone!

This was my first time to an overnight regatta and I loved it. As a newbie and asked to write this overview of the event has given me the opportunity to say thank you to the whole team. You are an awesome team of ladies with lots of guts, full of fun, supportive and encouraging. I feel privileged to be part of the team. All I have to do now is to learn how to paddle correctly - so thanks also to Sean for his patience.

OUR CURRENT MISSION: Train hard, win the Regionals and top this off with winning at the Nationals - so let's go ladies!!!!!!

Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta - Monday 31 January 2011

Well done Deb Stevenson for being selected as today's Most Valuable Team Member - Thank You Deb, we all appreciate the tremendous contribution you make to our Team.

Another newbie, Glenys Stewart shares her delights of the day ....

What an awesome event to be part of. The dragon boat teams were invited to take part in the celebrations happening out on the water. You could feel the excitement on our arrival at our team tent, as today's competition was going to be in the Viaduct, in front of hundreds of people who had ventured down to the waterfront to view the activities for the day.

On looking down where the course was going to be, I wondered how were the competing dragon boats going to fit in between all the pleasure boats moored around the course. We would be racing right through the centre of the boats moored along the side, as well as towards the big launches that were moored around the course. It was going to be fun trying to stop at the end of each race!

The dragon boats looked magnificent with their dragon heads and tails, and the callers had drums to beat out a rhythm to encourage our paddling. We loaded into the boat for the first race, venturing out towards the startt line. There was a very strong wind to contend with out on the water and this was pushing the boats around while we were trying to line up. Finally, we were off for a very fast and furious race and then we were at the finish line, but it felt like we had only just got started!

Looking up after there race, there were people on every side clapping and cheering, with cameras recording our efforts. So much atmosphere to soak up and enjoy. Before we could compete in our next race, there was to be a display by the tug boats coming into the Viaduct. The first one was so much like "Little Toot," then shortly afterwards all the various sizes of tug boats were paraded in front of everyone. Then it was back onto the water for another race, 4 in total today. The final race was against 2 other teams of women only paddlers and was so close in the end, less than a second separating us all at the finish line. (The Jaffettes 59.65sec, Pink Dragons 59.88sec, Busting With Life 59.91sec)

This was an event that I hope we get to participate in again in the coming years. I am certainly looking forward to next year!

Wenderholm, Super 12 Dragon Boat Beach Races - Saturday 11 December 2010

Congratulations to Kay Willcocks selected as today's MVP - Well done Kay!

Newbie Margaret McLean writes for the first time ....

For a 'newbie' it is quite daunting heading out alone into the unknown to your first ever regatta. In hindsight, it would have been preferable to take up the kind offer of a lift with some established team members.  After getting comfortable in the BWL tent, best just to sit back, look relaxed and confident, chew a bit of fingernail, quietly wonder 'am I up to this?', wait for something to happen, and it certainly did. It was a privilege for a newbie to paddle in 4 out of the 5 races. 500 meters into a head wind, in a different boat, mixed teams (some big units in those other boats), running/rolling starts.  Wooohooo!!! It was a most enjoybale, amazing day with a great bunch of ladies (and blokes.) The lunch time entertainment was amusing. Did anyone else see Sean jump on a competitor's sack in the sack race? Accidental? I think not. Is the Coach eligible for a fine? Can't believe that after so many training sesssions, still finding some muscles that have never seen the light of day! I knew dragon boating would be strenuous but oh boy, what a wake up call! Mastering the technique is so much harder than imaged and I can see it all requires fitness and determination. 

The real bonus - I have discovered a sure cure for insomnia. Total dragon boat exhaustion and a little (?) wine lead to lights out!

 

Kay Willcox also contributes .....

It was a lot of fun and a lot of hard work. Especially the long paddles out to the marker buoy to begin the race and then the mad dash back to the beach straight into a head wind. Being out on the water was magic. The weather was gorgeous and a real kiwi 'picnic on the beach' atmosphere prevalied. It was my first regatta as a stroke and Anne's as a sweep, and it was lovely to feel supported by the team even if the race results were mixed.

A popular visitor to the site was Santa with a big bag oif lollies for the scramble. Our representatives, Anne & Sean did well in the sack race, and we won our heat in the tug-of-war. 

'Le Mans' starts add a whole new dimension. The sweeps run down to the boats, take a flying leap (especially in Sean's case) into the boats and then the race begins. Terrific fun. At the end of the racing the water proved irresistible and a few of us dived in fully clothed. What a great way to end the year.

Waikato Dragon Boat Association, Super 12 Hamilton Lake - Saturday 04 December 2010

Fabulous weather, fabulous racing conditions, "heaps of Aroha" and another well organised event from Waikato DBA.  

A full day of racing saw us compete in 5 races culminating in the much anticipated BC final against Pink Dragons, Boobops, Waikato Treasure Chests and Taranaki Dragons. Well done to all teams for an extremely close finish but by the skin of our teeth BWL brought it home......again!

First racing experience for our new team members Erica, Judy, Glenys and Anne.  

Anne Owens shares her thoughts on the day

Not one to shy away from a challenge, I accepted the roll of sweep. I had practiced twice! Surely that's enough to get the motor pathways in the brain to repeat patterns and allow us to go in a straight line. I hope so! The first race was a little nerve racking. All I wanted was a straight line and not some scenic cruise. Well, we got it. I was so pleased. Of course, there were those guys beside us whose arms were bigger than our thighs. We gave them a run for their money and they had a new found respect. It helped a little that their sweep lost his balance, steering and then had to correct his course.

The racing was fun, trying to push strategy and where to line up on the start line, getting that rolling start rolling and positioning well. The energy in the boat was exciting. As for Sean saying it is a practice event and it doesn't matter where we come, man - once on the water it is all on. The last race I got to paddle again, with Sean as an experienced sweep using the wake of the other boat to help push us along. It was so tight, who knew where we had finished. It was thrilling and competitive, the exurberation came later when it was announced we got 1st.  The rememberance gathering and prayers, thanks and offerings, were special. A great way to give thanks and take time away from the competitive side of things and think more of others and the comradeship from each other.

 

Dragons Abreast Festival Darling Harbour, Sydney - Sunday 31 October 2010

  Debbie Garrett writes

 I was incredibly excited with the prospect of my upcoming first International regatta - the thought of an extended weekend in Sydney, paddling on one of the most beautiful harbours in the world, little bit of retail therapy, little bit of eating and drinking (well, not so little as it turned out!) and a huge amount of laughs and camaraderie was the recipe for a fabulous trip. Well done to Dragons Abreast Australia who turned on a magnificently organised Corporate & Community Regatta at Darling Harbour on Sunday 31 October, and threw in a perfect mix of warm sunny weather and light seas which made for near perfect racing conditions. First time in our black International racing strip made me realise how an Olympic athlete feels when proudly stepping out donned with the silver fern to represent NZ. With heads held high and chests puffed (where applicable) we joined six Australian BC Teams plus our NZ compatriots, Pink Dragons to compete in 2 heats plus a final. Both heat wins saw BWL make it into the final and a very tight finish saw us coming 3rd – we were delighted. The Corporate and Community racing involved 80+ other teams representing, businesses, the medical community, tertiary institutes and even folk who randomly got together and formed a team, who were keen to be involved, to fundraise and to support a very worthwhile cause.

 

Another perspective from Kay Willcox ....

This was an excellent team building weekend in Sydney. We were able to attend thanks to our fundraising efforts, the hard work of the committee and other 'behind the scenes' people like Team Manager, Ocke.  Our hotel, the "Quest Apartments" in the Haymarket area was only a 20 minute walk from Darling Harbour and spacious enough for pre-dinner drinks and Team meetings.

The first morning we had to prove to Captain Kelly's satisfaction that we could swim 50 meters in the hotel pool, then we were free for the day to be tourists.  The ferry to Manly was a popular choice as it was a stunning day to be on the harbour.  Trips to the Botanic Gardens and the 'Rocks' area, plus shopping, were also high on member's 'to do' list. 

Sunday was the big day so we met early in the lobby to walk down to the racing site. In our two heats we recorded the fastest times of the day, even though we graciously allowed our Aussie hosts to win the finals.  The two NZ teams, "BWL" and "Pink Dragons" came home 3rd & 4th. A bonus was our Australian sweep Robin. A lovely, enthusiastic woman who enjoyed herself as much as we did. Darling Harbour had a wonderful vibe as the crowds enjoyed the sunshine and cheering the teams on.  Sean, our coach, now has a glint in his eye. Perhaps he is planning future trips across the ditch?  Thanks to everyone who made the weekend such a success and a brilliant start to our season.

 

Leslie Ash writes again!

We dusted off the plonkers, plonked on the thermals and headed down to Westhaven Marina for an "All-comers" Super 12 regatta hosted by the Auckland Dragon Boat Association. It was a spectacular winter's day with near perfect conditions throughout the morning's paddling. 

The race card was very different this time. The first race of the day was a 3.7km course out past the breakwater, up to the Harbour Bridge, turn and then home. For most this would be their longest dragon boat race. 

This challenge was met by nine BWL paddlers and three Pink Dragon paddlers with Jo Jo as sweep and Susan as caller. The composite team was named "Pink Busts" (!!??) for the race and after a warm up and a quick practice to see if we could still remember how to hold a paddle, we were off! 

What a sensational ride down towards the bridge with the wind and the tide helping us along. We did a huge banshee shout out as we went under the bridge and then the turn for home, parallel to the breakwater where a great group of supporters from both our teams were there to cheer us along.

Into the wind and with a few more waves to contend with the team powered along - impressive!

Our times weren't too shabby either with a finish of 23.19 minutes.  For many of us it was a real confidence kick to push ourselves a little harder than usual and come out smiling.

A series of sprint races of 200 meters across the basin followed and then it was off to Swashbucklers for seafood platters and a pat on the back for a paddle well done. 

The same format will be used for the "Silly Spring" regatta in September so shake your "sillies" out and come along.  

StarLake Express Waka Ama Regatta - Lake Pupuke 11 July 2010

Rosemary Jenkins writes on this event ...

The conditions were ideal. It was a beautiful clear, sunny winter's morning. The lake was calm which was in stark contrast to the previous two Sunday's where we had practiced in windy, rainy, cold conditions. BWL entered two teams, an all women's team and a supporter's team which consisted of four males and two females who were co-opted to make the full compliment of six paddlers.

After a welcome and a karakia the women's team were in the first race along with five other teams.  Under Irene's expert guidance they gave it everything they had around the 4.5km course. The supporter's team did likewise when it came to their turn.   Although no match for the more experienced teams, both teams did themselves proud coming in towards the back of the field.  Overall a very positive experience and one that I would encourage other BWL members to consider in the future.  Dont be put off by the 4.5km distance. It was very doable and lots of fun.

Thankyou to the supporters who came to watch and cheer us on.

Also thankyou to Sugar and her team from NZ Taniwha Dragon Boat and Outrigger Canoe Club for the opportunity to compete in this event.  

 

National Championships - Ashburton - 27 March 2010

Leslie Ash writes on Lake Hood triumph ...

You have to love Canterbury weather. 30 degrees C on “travel” day and a balmy 15 degrees C on race day!

The 2010 NZ Dragon Boat Nationals hosted by Aoraki DBA and held at Lake Hood near Ashburton was a wonderful venue. The weather conditions were challenging; the competition was hot. Kudos to Meri Gibson and her team for running such a fantastic event.

We had brought the National BC trophy down to Ashburton with us knowing full well that we would have to paddle the race of the season if we wanted to bring it home again this year.

Busting with Life made a commitment as a team this year that we would fully align with the international standards for BC teams which requires all those on the boat to be BC survivors including drummer and sweep. Our coach Sean was looking forward to staying warm and dry from a safe position on the shore!

Each of the 6 BC teams raced in 4 open division races throughout the day, monitoring times, energy levels of team members and honing strategies in the build up to The Breast Cancer survivors’ Division Grand Final.

There may not always be the muscle strength and  stamina of youth across the BC teams but if the measures are about  passion, willingness to participate and dogged determination then this collective group has it in bucket loads.

Sean believed we could do it and he never waivered in that belief. He sent us off to the start line reminding us to have fun and breathe!

“Ladies, we have a start line – ATTENTION! – GO!!!”

It gets a bit blurry at this point. The noise, the water, the excitement and tension as we race down the course towards the finish at a frantic pace. Sweep JoJo was brilliant, found her voice and did she use it!

A photo finish for confirmation of results was required…..

We had 7 boats rafted up for the Flower Ceremony on Lake Hood. It is such a poignant reminder  of all the elements that encompass the journey that is Breast Cancer and allows us all to pay respect to those who are no longer with us.

The plaintive call of the karakia by local iwi followed by the haka from the combined armed forces of the NZ Army and Air Force rang out across the lake. The aroha and inclusiveness of the NZ dragon boating family towards the BC teams is truly overwhelming.

Lakeside drinks and nibbles were generously provided by the Abreast of Life team as we cheered on the remaining finals with all thoughts of being wet and cold forgotten.

Big party and prizegiving at the Ashburton Hotel – a great time was had! What goes on tour stays on tour!

The NZBCF sponsored breakfast held at Lake Hood Resort Restaurant on Sunday morning was a fun mix and mingle event and it was great to chat on an informal basis with fellow teams who had been in opposition  just a few hours before.

Oh, by the way… the Trophy was repacked in it’s carrier bag and brought back safely to Auckland by the triumphant Busting with Life Team! We won by the narrowest of margins and we know that margin is shrinking all the time!

 

Auckland Regionals - 13 March 2010

What a proud day for Busting With Life. We didn't get the final race result we were hoping for (oooohhh - that start !!!!), but we "put it all out there", never giving up, and proved our ability to work together brilliantly as a team. All day we achieved terrific race times, and as a 100% breast cancer survivor team, we more than held our own against the "hail and hardy" mixed teams.

Bring on the Nationals !

 

Wenderholm Super 12 Fun Day - 23 January 2010

Veteran paddler Judith Overington gives the scoop on a great event ...

Busting With Life paddlers took part in the recent Super 12 fun day at Wenderholm organised by the Auckland Dragon Boat Association. Some of us who have been in regattas at the beach in the past were a little nervous about sea conditions and also the thought of doing turns during the racing was new for some paddlers. But when we arrived and saw the sea was like a mill pond we could relax and enjoy the day.

Although I don't think relaxing was the word we thought of when we paddled and paddled and paddled out off the beach for the first race (without turns because of the wind further out). This race was apparently 800 meters in to the shore, so it was quite hard going. After that we had a few 600m races and after the lunch break had 2 races with a Le Mans start and turns around buoys (approx 200m races I think).

Having Le Mans starts with the sweep getting in the boat last and the finish being a race up the beach by the callers added a fun aspect as did the lunchtime games of tug-of-war between teams and the jandal throwing competitions. Chris's son threw her jandal so far it ended up stuck in a high pohutukawa tree which our nimble coach Sean managed to retrieve by quickly climbing the tree!

We were in the Firefly final with Pink Dragons who beat us to the finish and we were ahead of Waikato Treasure Chests, but we all enjoyed the fun picnic atmosphere of the day.

 

 

Hamilton Super 12 - 18 Nov 2009

New BWL team member Eila Wild writes about her first regatta...

I had something of a coming out experience at the Waikato Super 12 Dragon Boat Regatta held in Hamilton at the city lake on 28th November. Not that having breast cancer is exactly a private matter when chemotherapy makes your hair fall out, but a lot of it is personal and unshared. So to stand in a linked circle with team-mates all in pink shouting "Feel It Find It Fix It!!!" prior to a race certainly blew the cobwebs off any remaining privacy, and left me feeling profoundly proud of the strength and solidarity of my new Dragon Boating friends. This feeling occurred again when the five breast cancer Survivor teams linked boats at the end of their race and shared a moment's silence for all our friends present in body and in spirit.

It was a wonderful day for we new members. We had the thrill of racing; of losing and winning; and we got to see the point of training! We also had the thrill of joining with a community of women who have a shared experience and a deep understanding of the loveliness of this life.

 

Mid Winter Flipping Freezin Fun Fundraiser - 5 Sept 2009

"Mid Winter Flipping Fun Fundraiser" was the billing. However it was officially spring by the time the event went ahead, after being postponed from the 8th of August. The Auckland Dragon Boating Association was putting it on as a pre-season get-together and to raise money to make some repairs to the trailers and boats.

 

The competition started at 9am and ran through to noon and consisted of a series of 250 metre sprints. At least it did until the tide went out too far, and our last race - our fourth - had to be cancelled!

It was a gorgeous sunny morning only marred by a biting wind, but team manager Ocker had put up the tent, so we were grateful for the comfort, and also for the grandstand views of Westhaven and the bridge. It was also an excellent view point for selecting the "Gin Palace" we want for our team base this season.

Paddling in the waka ama over the winter had honed the skills of some of the team, but others struggled, notably me. It has been a long time since the end of March. Quite discouraging really, but lovely to be welcomed back by such a wonderful group of people - and great to be on the water again.

There was one unfortunate incident towards the end of the morning when a member of Pink Dragons stepped out of their boat onto the "beach" only to sink thigh deep into the mud. Galant Sean, our coach, raced to her aid and managed to lift her on to the boat before he could be sucked into the mire himself.

After the races we rounded off the morning with a drink and platters of chips and seafood at Swashbucklers Bar - right on the waterfront - to enjoy more sun and sea and good company.

What an excellent start to the season for Busting With Life.


Kay Willcocks - BWL Paddler

 

 

STARLake Express - 18 July 2009

The day dawned ...  heavy rains - gale force winds - freezing temperature - black skies - but nothing could deter BWL's "infamous 6" who braved all to race in the 5km STARlake Express Waka Ama Corporate Challenge on Lake Pupuke. Dressed in thermals from head to toe, but still visibly sporting the BWL pink shirt, not even competing against the fellas could shake our ladies' determination. And finishing a respectable 3rd against experienced waka ama paddlers ... just enhanced what was a really fun day.  Well done ladies!

 

BWL Trophies Now On Display at NZBCF

With committee member closets overflowing with team trophies, it was time to find an appropriate home for all the silverware. On behalf of the NZ Breast Cancer Foundation, Executive Trustee Heather Shotter accepted all the team's awards from President Deb Stevenson and Committee member Irene Muller in a formal presentation on 8 July 2009. All the hardware will now be proudly displayed in the Parnell, Auckland offices of the NZBCF.
  
Deb Stevenson, Irene Muller, Heather Shotter

 

The National Dragon Boat Championships: 28 March 2009

Judith Overington reports on yet another "Golden" regatta for Busting With Life...

  Busting With Life has just completed a very successful season by winning gold and retaining the National Championship trophy in the Breast Cancer division final at the Nationals held at Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) in Rotorua.

We gathered on Friday for a relaxing barbecue at our weekend base - Blue Lake Campground. On Saturday we had four races against Open and Corporate teams in the lead-up to the ultimate race - the Breast Cancer Division final. We were ecstatic to win the title of national Champion once again with the competition becoming tougher with each regatta this season. Following the Final, we had a moving "flowers on the water" ceremony which was held close to shore where we could see all the other teams and supporters and the respect they have for breast cancer paddlers. Then, as we paddled in, we were very honoured to be greeted by a haka performed by the young Rotorua boys who were helping with crew loading. That capped off a wonderful day on the water for us!


Later we attended the prize-giving where we received our Gold medals and championship cup. On Sunday morning we enjoyed a wonderful breakfast with all the breast cancer survivor teams. During this breakfast, Trici Nelson (founder of Breast Cancer dragon boating in NZ, and founder of Busting With Life) spoke, followed by both new and long-serving paddlers from each team - all sharing their dragon boating and team membership experiences. Leslie Ash and Robyn Brown represented our team very eloquently - thank you to them.

Thank you also to our fabulous coach Sean for getting us to the level where we can keep on winning; to our manager Ocke for making sure everyone had accommodation and transport; to our captain Kelly for making sure we were all doing what we needed to do; and to our president Deb for holding it all together and thinking of all the little details that needed to be sorted.

We look forward to next season !!!!

Check out the Gallery for more photos.

 

Lake Pupuke: 14 March 2009

Winning is Habit Forming !!!
On 14 March, Busting With Life competed in the North Shore City Regional Dragon Boat Championships on Lake Pupuke. The early morning mist cleared to reveal a beautiful day, and the lake shone like a mirror. But, this was not to last ... as the day progressed the temperature dropped and rain showers moved in. The weather could not dampen this team's enthusiasm though. BWL competed in 5 races - all on a long 580 meter course! ... and took out the Breast Cancer Survivor final in a photo finish - pipping silver medalists Pink Dragons at the finish line. Boobops took the bronze position. It was an agonising wait for the results! Following the final, Breast Cancer Survivor teams rafted together for the traditional flower ceremony, with some well chosen words by BWL captain Kelly Smith.

BWL's win was celebrated at the prize giving ceremony held at R'Toto's, with Judith Overington accepting the cup and medals on the team's behalf.

The team's "home bake" and "wheelbarrow wine/beer raffle" were a great success - raising over $1,100 for the team's activities.

Tauranga Super 12:  14 February 2009

Veteran BWL paddler Clare Brown, after 10+ years on the team, writes on the most recent regatta ...

The Tauranga Super 12 is very popular with the team and was held this year on 14 February. Unlike last year, the weather was perfect. Only 12 paddlers are required in each race so with the popularity of the event we took it in turns to paddle.

We had five races in all including the Breast Cancer Division race. Five boats competed; Busting With Life, BooBops, Waikato Treasure Chests, Pink Dragons and, competing for the very first time, a team from Taranaki. Busting With Life had a very good race, winning by a good margin and breaking the one minute record for the course. To be honest the record was only broken with the assistance of a huge outgoing tide which almost carried the team under a wharf at the end of the race.

After the race, the breast cancer teams rafted together for a flower ceremony which is very sad as it gives us a moment to reflect, but then we turn our attention to the present, all our friends, and a great day on the water.

We also competed in an Open Division Final, finishing third, ahead of mixed teams.

Our thanks go to Sean, our excellent coach, and the team manager, Ocke. Thanks guys.

 

Hamilton Super 12: 29 November 2008

The 2008 - 2009 regatta season got off to a brilliant start with the Hamilton Super 12 on 29 November 08. The Waikato put on a fabulous day - bright sunshine, calm waters, an easy breeze - perfect conditions to accompany great organisation, a huge turn-out, and wonderful comraderie on and off the water. Busting With Life flew through 5 races, winning their open division semi-final, and coming second by only a whisker in the Breast Cancer final (congratulations to the home team BooPops).

New team member Leslie Ash writes about her first regatta experience...

The anticipation for a "newbee" of the first regatta held both excitement and a bad case of the nerves as we arrived at Hamilton Lake for the first Super 12 regatta of the season.

The day was, in a nutshell, gorgeous! Calm water, bright sunshine and clear conditions made it a paddler's dream.

The team (with able assistance from Ocker and Dave) quickly assembled tent, awnings and umbrellas like a well-oiled machine. The scene all around us was similar... Big BBQs and chilly bins, guitars, singing, and of course the coffee and ice cream wagons to complete the scene.

Coach Sean prepped us all for the first race and with nervous butterflies we set up and headed out to the start line. The splashing and sparks flew as we powered up and all around us the shouting and tactics of the other teams could be heard. The spirit of competition is alive and well in the mighty Waikato.

Nothing quite prepares you for the rush of your first race! You forget to breathe, you wonder how you will ever keep up with the seasoned talent already on the boat and all you can think about is keeping time and not clashing antlers with the paddles front and stern of you. The legs feel like jelly when you climb out of the boat and you have a silly grin on your face!

That grin only got bigger as we powered through 5 races. Our performance was solid throughout the day. We won our semi final in the open division and came second in the Breast Cancer race. A great day with a great team!

One of the "newbees" was heard to say at the end of the day, "That was about as much fun as you can have with your clothes on!".

Onwards and upwards for the girls.

 

Auckland National Dragon Boat Festival: 29 March 2008

In 2007, Busting With Life was pipped at the post for the Championship Shield by Christchurch’s Abreast in a Boat, but not this year !!!

Busting With Life saved its best for the 5th and final race of the day to win the NZ Breast Cancer Dragon Boat Championship Shield, missing the gold medal by only a whisker to the visiting 80-20 Dragons Abreast Gold Coast (80% of the team being breast cancer survivors.

The Nationals were held for the first time on Lake Pupuke on Auckland’s North Shore. This was an exciting new venue for Dragon Boating in New Zealand, providing a full 500 metre  course and excellent spectator viewing.

Go to gallery to view more photos

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Wellington Dragon Boat Festival: 15 & 16 March 2008

Wellington put on magnificent blue skies and calm waters for its annual dragon boat festival. The weather brought out cheering crowds to urge on the 1800 competitors and 72 teams from around the country for the 1st day of the event. Wellington City Council's WCC Conquerors took the gold in the corporate grand championship final, and Masterton's JNL team took honours in the open section.

The Wellington Festival did not have a breast cancer division, so survivor teams competed against mixed teams (guys and gals) in the Open Social section. Busting With Life brought home the bronze medal in this category, the top finishing position for breast cancer teams all day, and the team's first medal in an Open Social Grand Final. And - they did so while being short 2 paddlers. Quite an accomplishment for this determined lot of ladies and their coach Sean Ogden.

... Bring on the National Championships !!!

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Tauranga

Super 12: 1 March 2008Another success for Busting With Life - winning the breast cancer final in the 2nd annual Tauranga Super 12. Not even the blustery weather and strong currents could deter our ladies as they left even mixed teams (guys and gals) in their wake. The team celebrated in fine style at the post regatta medal ceremony with the odd glass of bubbly and wine, followed by a team dinner.

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Tiger Beer Dragon Boat Festival - 16th February 2008

Held in Auckland's Viaduct Harbour, the festival was brought forward this year to coincide with the Chinese New Year. The timing provided a reminder to all of the sport's long history and roots.

Congratulations to Busting Wth Life for winning the Breast Cancer Grand Final, Hamilton City Watersports for knocking KPC off their crown as Open Grand Final Champions, and the Airforce…winners of the Corporate Grand Final and recipients of $28,000.00 towards airfares from Cathay Pacific to race at the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Festival in June later this year!

Breast Cancer Grand Final:	Time:
Gold - Busting With Life	1:28:93
Silver - Boobops	1:29:15
Bronze - Ascot Radiology Pink Dragons	1:33:39

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