River Spirit competed in six regattas this year finishing well in all their races.
They paddled to a “golden” finish to end their racing season.
Despite the pouring rain, the team paddled strong to finish with a gold medal in Port Alberni last weekend.
In the final, they beat out their long time rivals the “TriPort Warriors” from the North Island and “Hope Afloat” from Comox.
The friendly rivalry between these three teams has been long standing, they compete many times in different venues throughout the season. The teams are mutually supportive of each other, cheering and encouraging at every festival and regatta.
Part of the allure of dragon boating, is the sense of solidarity that comes about from the experience.
Everybody must be able to rely on everyone else in the boat. There is no hierarchy in that regard. The speed of the boat comes about from everybody paddling as one, everybody must hit the water with their paddles at exactly the same time. There is no age limit, weight limit, fitness level minimum, or experience level requirement. That is why it is one of the fasting growing water sports in the world.
Anyone can do this! If you are interested in trying Dragon Boating or would like to take a group out, contact teamriverspirit@gmail.com or find them on Facebook, River Spirit.