Are we proud? YES!
Are we exhilarated? YES!
Did we have fun? Most certainly YES!!
With the recent successes at the Queensland Dragon Boat Federation State Championships still fresh in our minds and hearts, a reduced contingent of 25 Manly paddlers took their determination, hunger and self belief to Canberra to compete at the 2011 Australian National Dragon Boat Championships.
The venue, Lake Burleigh Griffin proved to be a spectacular setting, the predicted cold, windy and wet weather conditions did not eventuate and we were treated to virtually ideal racing conditions.
As a team we were keen to test ourselves at National level with the desire to repeat our victories from the Queensland State Championships, only this time the playing field was much bigger (2500 paddlers) and located on a much higher plateau.
Manly Dragons were able to exceed our initial goal which was to place in a Grand Final.
Results are as follows:
Masters Mixed 20's Crew 200m - Bronze Medal
Grand Masters Mixed 10's Crew 200m - Bronze Medal
Masters Women 10's Crews 200m - Gold Medal*
Masters Women 10'S Crew 500m - Gold Medal*
In addition we finalled in 6th place in the Masters Mixed 20's over 500m distance and finished 5th out of 10 teams in the Masters Mixed 20's 2000m distance and turn race.
These results from a young club just 4 years old that was established from totally green roots without experienced paddlers or coach proves that with commitment, vision and determination anything is possible! Hard work and strong leadership forms part of this successful formula.
The message to other developing clubs is to push yourselves to the limit - you might just find that you too are rewarded with success. There is nothing to lose and a great deal to learn & experience.
Naturally the advent of 10's racing has opened up greater opportunities for young clubs to be successful during their developmental stages. I can clearly recall the early days at Manly, we paddled in Premiers Mixed category at every regatta, this traditionally was the way that all new clubs' cut their competitive teeth.
To be able to race within specific age's divisions is positive change welcomed by many emerging and developing clubs.
Accolades to the indefatigable Manly paddlers, the dedicated coaching and training team, sweeps and drummers, all have made personal sacrifices to get us to this exalted position.
Everyone has been a much valued member of our team! The enthusiasm displayed by every paddler to do the work and accept my training plan has made coaching this crew an absolute pleasure, made all the sweeter by our results.
It has been a fantastic experience thus far, and now…… where to from here?
To be continued……………………
Maggie Boyce
Head Coach Manly Dragon Boat Club Inc.
|
