A group of 麻豆社国产women has made quite a splash in the dragon boat racing community with a podium finish at the sixth annual Harrison DragonFest on Saturday (July 24).
The 麻豆社国产Dragon Boat Association's Team Chawanda took the bronze medal in Women's B division on a pristine day at Harrison Hot Springs.
"The weekend was spectacular, with blue sky all day long and the wind coming up only at the end of the day," said team member Cathie Greenlees.
The Harrison DragonFest attracts approximately 60 teams from throughout B.C. and Washington State to form 24 women's teams and 35 mixed teams.
With only little more than a year of practice - though diligently, three times a week rain or shine -the 18 committed women aged 30s to 60s have reaped the benefits with their latest feat.
The team's achievement, said Greenlees, is a testament to their coach's abilities.
"Coach Carl Mendoza, whose men's team won the Canadian Nationals in Whistler earlier this month, takes great pride in passing on his knowledge and passion, so long as you're willing to put in the work," she said.
"He is very technical, so we understand the mechanics of paddling, and our practices are very regimented. Once we're in the boat, he is in charge and has our complete attention."
Mendoza said he's "extremely proud" of what the women have accomplished in just over a year and with only two other races under our belt.
And that means everything to the team, said Greenlees.
"It's an amazing feeling when you've put every bit of energy and spirit you have, your completely drained and you look up and you see the smiling face of your coach and he's saying good job ladies, good job!"
The team is always looking for more members and offers drop in fees for those willing to try their hand at paddling on the Cattermole Slough Wednesdays and Fridays 6 p.m., and Sundays 2 p.m. Meet at the gravel lot across from the Brew Pub at the end of Cleveland Avenue.
"The hour and a half on the water three times a week takes us away from everything else that's going on and provides us with an amazing work out and sense of pride in the improvement we've made," said Greenlees. "It's also a great social sport as well. I've met some great people."
For more information, go to the Facebook page "麻豆社国产Dragon Boating," or watch the Harrison DragonFest race on You Tube at "Chawanda 200m Race - Harrison Dragon Boat Festival 2010."
