An array of marquees lined Milford Beach and there were smiles all around from the 18 Auckland Dragon boating teams. It really was a festival of colour and energy. Once again, thrilled that the Busting With Life shirts are so vibrant and identifiable, it made finding the team a breeze in a crowd!
It was with excitement and apprehension that I looked forward to the Christmas races at Milford. Pleased that my first racing experience would be slightly different for everyone, experienced and recent paddlers and that in the business of the waves in the sea I mightn’t look too bad at my new sport.
Proud to be part of a well organised and supportive team with everyone willing to answer any newbie questions without ridicule, I lined up for a warm up routine led by the indefatigable and ever enthusiastic Lol.
We may not have the intimidating counting and calls that the other teams have to stretch and flex but the smiles on the BWL women’s faces show that this dragon boating has many benefits both physical and mental.
There were to be 4 races - the last was the final. Leslie went through the team selections explaining carefully the need for experience to balance the newbies in each race. Gayle my fellow newbie and I were fortunately flanked and assisted by encouraging team mates who helped us through Race 12 and 14. I was also thrilled that the race organiser decided to insert a lunch break in between our 2 races so I could get my breath back!
Mindful of the fact a team’s boat had flipped and a sweep had been swept off another I listened carefully to all the wise words of our coach about leaning out and staying calm. It really is wonderful having Leslie, an extremely cool cucumber and world class sweep as the person in charge!
The final was against The Pink Dragon ladies of course and I had the exciting experience of being the (non)caller for the opposition. It gives one an interesting perspective looking back on the paddlers in the boat and seeing how important it is that everyone works together in time.
This race was the ultimate triumph for BWL as they romped home to win with a significant lead! The murmurs at training the next day were that the race time was even better than a few of the other women’s teams! Roll on Nationals...
This team is made up of an enthusiastic and encouraging group of women who really love the sport of dragon boating but mostly love to share and care for others who also want to reap the benefits of exercise and teamwork.
3, 2, 1, Busting!