“GET ME OUT OF HERE!….”

…called our steersman, Andy, when he wanted us to press hard toward the finish. The Paddlefish loved this and responded.

A great day of racing on June 13th at St. Catharines, ON. We were the only team from outside Canada. The competition was stiff but the team walked away with a bronze medal in Division B. The medals were determined by points and we missed the silver by one!

Andy writes:

“I just wanted to send you a note saying how great your team was at the St. Catharines Dragon Boat Festival this past weekend. In over 15 years being involved in the sport and 10+ years of coaching and working events the Paddlefish are at or near the top of my list in terms of crews with which I have worked.

Thanks again for being such great competitors and making my job at the back of the boat a breeze.”

Racing! The final hook in our newest fish Carol. She writes:

“Just a few notes from the newbie. This was one of the best experiences of my life. I had a wonderful time. I know I made mistakes and I found new ways to see how I can improve. The best part of the trip was the camaraderie and the racing, wow what a rush. It was better than I ever could have imagined.

I’m sorry I couldn’t stay the extra day but I had a family commitment. I have to admit that it never dawned on me until this morning that there would be after-effect. Oh my goodness!!! I am so sore, Bengay is my best friend LOL!!! I now have proof that I rotate to the catch, my hips hurt, my core hurts, my back hurts, my shoulders hurt my arms hurt and I’m exhausted…what happened to me??? LOL I can’t wait to do it again next month!!!!!”

Race Site with luxurious docks and good water:

Athlete’s Village and setting up camp:

Ready to Rumble:

The P’fish Compete in the 1000 Meter Race:

High Fives All Around:

Our Cheering Section:

Thanks to the R-D Canadian Clan: Peter, Heather, Margaret, Simon, Rebecca, and Annie the Dog! And of course the R-Ds!

TIMES:

Team Dinner

A group pleased with their performance for the day followed by dinner in a cozy private dining room with a view of barges passing through the Welland Canal……just a wonderful day all around!

Random Shots: