Saturday, August 23 was a scorcher in Richmond, and Team Nothin’ Dragon was feeling the heat at the Freshco Richmond Dragon Boat Festival. Under bright skies and with tides pushing against us, the Fraser River served up a true test of grit, focus, and teamwork.
A Day of Ups and Downs
We kicked things off with a solid 3rd place finish in our first 500m race. Spirits were high and our strokes were sharp. But by the second heat, the combination of mid-day sun and ebb tide made things tough, and we crossed the line in 5th place.
That only set the stage for what was to come. In the G Division Final, Nothin’ Dragon came together like never before — digging deep, syncing up, and believing in ourselves. The result? A gold medal finish by just .167 of a second!
Waiting for our boat on the docks in Steveston
From the Captain’s Log
Captain Bob captured the day:
“Our team sorted through early communication issues to register a 3rd in the first race. Heat and ebb tide had us place 5th in the second race at midday. In the G final the team came together in timely fashion, gathered up belief in themselves, and posted a hard-fought gold by .167 of a second. Thanks for all your effort, team.”
Of course, a Nothin’ Dragon race day wouldn’t be complete without a few memorable moments:
Rob V saved the day (and Bob’s nerves) by finding his wallet.
Roy W earned props for being a great sport.
Bev delivered the quote of the day after race two: “I thought we had won and then I looked up!”
And Julie shared a milestone moment: “That was the first final I’ve been in and won a medal.”
The Fraser River
Our Leaders on the Water
Special thanks go out to Bruce on steer and Carol on drum, who guided us with steady hands, sharp calls, and plenty of heart. Their leadership was vital in navigating challenging conditions and keeping us locked in when it mattered most.
Proud to Finish Strong
From a bronze start, through a midday battle, to a golden finish, this festival was a reminder of why we paddle: for each other, for the challenge, and for the joy of crossing the line as one.
Proud to race together, proud to finish strong.
