ROW, ROW, DRAGON BOAT

Have you ever been captivated by the beauty of “strength” as seen through uniform strokes? I saw that beauty when a champion dragon boat team did their thing - synchronized rowing motion. Power in one fluid movement.

The beauty of Manila Bay before the sun fully shines gives drama to what looked like an ordinary practice day. They’re perfect subjects. They were very much focused and in control – these too registered well in their photographs.

They were also a nice lot. The opportunity to ride the boat and row it too was the highlight for me. It gave me a feel of how it is to be a part of the team. But being the real deal is not easy. You have to be fit and you have to have the rhythm.

The experience was both fun and exciting. But I wouldn’t be a rower. I don’t see it happening in this lifetime. For one, I can’t wake up that early for practice. They do warm-ups around 5:30. They go down the bay around 6. They wrap-up around 7. Secondly, my work place is not within the vicinity. Most of the team members go to work right after practice. It’s nice to have tried it. But for me, it ends there. But that’s me. I admire all of them for having the passion and the drive for the sport. Their being champions attest to the kind of dedication they put in to perfect their skills.

SUPERWOMOM’S NOTES:
If you’re interested to try the sport, you may want to contact PDRT Fireblades: Victor Tapic Jr. at (0916) 570-5158 or email: citation_jr@yahoo.com. You may also visit this site, http://tubbyfinch.multiply.com/journal/item/25/Schedules for other dragon boat rowing teams.