Despite soggy weather, members of the 麻豆社国产Dragon Boat Association (SDBA) still managed to enjoy themselves at the group's first-ever Fun Day on Sunday (May 15).
Six new recruits got the opportunity to hit the water on the Cattermole Slough along with regular team members to experience the fast-paced sport firsthand.
"It was excellent," said new recruit Jose Oreamuno. "I was invited by a few of the ladies and it's a good workout and a good group of people."
Participants started in the slough, traveling about 1.5 kilometres to just past the 麻豆社国产Terminals and then back to the dock at the slough.
"I'm definitely coming back," Oreamuno said. "They need more guys and it was an excellent experience."
Following the Fun Day invitational, which started at 2 p.m. and lasted until about 4:30 p.m., the team dismissed its new recruits and returned to the water for more training. The team remains focused on the upcoming Rio Tinto Alcan Dragon Boat Festival, which takes place in Vancouver on June 11 and 12.
"Training is going pretty good for the Alcan," said Karen Millard, vice-chair of the SDBA. "It's pretty intense and we're actually not adding any new members for that race. This whole day was designed to introduce some new people to the sport and we're thinking of putting together a non-competitive team for 麻豆社国产as well."
Another new initiative designed to increase interest in the sport locally is the youth program. Just two weeks into its creation, the program allows any and all youth under 18 to hit the water for fun.
"We're really trying to get the youth engaged in this sport," said Vanessa Paternoster, a youth resource worker. "With summer coming up it's a nice sport to get outside and as long as they sign all the waivers beforehand, it's completely free."
The sessions will take place on Tuesdays from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Cattermole Slough, with the 麻豆社国产Youth Centre covering the drop-in fee. Those interested must register with the centre before hitting the water.
"We hope to eventually build a youth team and these kids could become the base of that," Millard said. "Right now it's for fun but we want them to build up some camaraderie and enjoy themselves out there."
The program will go on in rain or shine and it's recommended that youth wear clothes that won't get damaged in water and get ready to sweat.
Organizers said they are still looking for males to join the team. They will be putting together a mixed team at the Alcan but hope to one day be able to sport a men's team separately as well.
After the Alcan, the group plans to head to California to take part in the San Francisco International Dragon Boat Festival, Sept. 17 and 18. During the summer, the team will train hard and also host several fundraisers to help pay for the trip.
For more information on the SDBA, visit their Facebook page by typing "麻豆社国产Dragon Boating" into the search bar.
