Today was the last day of the dragonboat competition. I can't believe we actually made it to the semis! Miracles DO happen. Even without proper training. A good strong start is the key :)
It was exactly a year ago I was at this very same place, doing the very same thing. Except now, bb's not here waiting for me. Felt a little lost, but hey, life still goes on eh? It was a tough race, at least to me. On the row towards the starting point, my back felt quite strained. Can you imagine? The race hadn't even started and my body was about to give way :/ This marks the last time I participate in a competition without proper preparation...
When the horn blared to signify the start of the race, I rowed like I never rowed before. It's amazing what adrenalin can do to you. I was amazed. haha...apparently we had a good start (we were leading the pack) but fell back after the first 100m. At least we tried, and we put up a good fight. Finishing last didn't matter, and this time, I wasn't swearing and cussing in my head. An achievement! Sports is as much a mental thing as well as a physical thing...that's what I learnt :)
At such open events, you get to meet teams with cute names like "Singapore Paddlers" (I know, it sounds juvenile to the untrained ear but according to Eug, they're GOOD) and unlikely participants like the "Cancer Survivors" (Waaaay to go!) and "SIA Cabin Crew". The latter was a good source of jokes ;) Perhaps their pre-race preparation goes somewhat like this:
It was exactly a year ago I was at this very same place, doing the very same thing. Except now, bb's not here waiting for me. Felt a little lost, but hey, life still goes on eh? It was a tough race, at least to me. On the row towards the starting point, my back felt quite strained. Can you imagine? The race hadn't even started and my body was about to give way :/ This marks the last time I participate in a competition without proper preparation...
When the horn blared to signify the start of the race, I rowed like I never rowed before. It's amazing what adrenalin can do to you. I was amazed. haha...apparently we had a good start (we were leading the pack) but fell back after the first 100m. At least we tried, and we put up a good fight. Finishing last didn't matter, and this time, I wasn't swearing and cussing in my head. An achievement! Sports is as much a mental thing as well as a physical thing...that's what I learnt :)
At such open events, you get to meet teams with cute names like "Singapore Paddlers" (I know, it sounds juvenile to the untrained ear but according to Eug, they're GOOD) and unlikely participants like the "Cancer Survivors" (Waaaay to go!) and "SIA Cabin Crew". The latter was a good source of jokes ;) Perhaps their pre-race preparation goes somewhat like this:
All rowers are seated on board the dragonboat. The coxswain steps up and everyone's attention is focused on him.
Coxswain: Good evening ladies and gentlemen, this is your coxswain speaking. My name is xxx. Kindly remain in your seats as we prepare for race-off. Please pay attention as I demonstrate how to put on a life vest, which are located under your seats.
Coxswain proceeds with the demonstration.
Coxswain: The weather is sunny with a slight breeze blowing eastwards. With your coporation, we will arrive in approximately 4 minutes to our destination. Dinner and drinks will be served shortly. Thank you for your attention, and we hope you enjoy your row with us.
HAHA!
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