Dragon Boat Races!

Teamwork, community and spirit is what was captured during last weekends Dragon Boat Races at the Asian Festival, Riverfront in Hartford.

I had the privilege to experience a Dragon Boat Race from the eyes of a beginner. Our boat originated from The Glastonbury Chamber (Glastonbury Chamber Paddlers).  This fabulous Chamber offers opportunities for businesses and people from all walks of life to participate in many team events, many are fitness orientated.  This Chamber places a strong stance on wellness and helps to educate small businesses on the importance of wellness in the workplace.  I have participated in several and just keep going back for more.  The experience of these events is so rewarding, it is an opportunity to push yourself a bit, try something new and add value to a team event. The next upcoming one is September 30th in Southwick, MA Rugged Maniacs.   

A group of people came together, like-minded absolutely!  Many fitness enthusiasts, many triathletes, a few full marathon runners, runners, bikers and a yoga person. We joined together at 6:00am weekly to practice and learn a variety of techniques, skills and drills in order to prepare for the race! Awakening to a 6:00am practice on the river just connects you to nature, it is such a soothing way to start your day!  

The event day, started with a little rain, then eventually the day turned to sunshine, fun and a new experience for those who have never participated in this event.  

Lot of heart-pumping adrenaline is what you feel when you approach the start line, all in line with the other boats (a total of five race at a time).   You start off giving it your all and try to keep a good race pace to get to the finish line before the other boats!  You come off of the boat a little shaky from all that exertion and adrenaline, but return back to normal shortly.  

There were a total of three races.  Actually, you need to qualify for the third race, so not all teams participate.  The Glastonbury Chamber Paddlers did race in all three, each time was better than the previous race time.  Eventually taking the bronze in our category!  We very happily accepted!  By the way, The Glastonbury Chamber did have a second boat, they did come in first in their division and went home with a gold medal!  Congratulations to Boat #2!

OK, so this Saturday back to Yoga!  Join me at 8:30am for Yoga with Weights and 10:15am for Yoga for Everybody at Anytime Fitness (a little plug, winners of boat #1 and Turnpike Autobody too!).  

Lynn MacDonald, ACE Personal Trainer, Registered Yoga Teacher
www.rhillyoga.com