Dragon Boat Racing & Family Fun Day
Sunday 9 May 2010
CSSC and HASSRA came together to stage the first joint dragon boat event -and what a fantastic day it was. Six dragon boat teams competed at Southport Marina, with each group putting in a sterling effort on the water. Friendly rivalry between competitors ensured a fun atmosphere throughout the day.
After arriving at the Marina, crew members tucked into hot sandwiches and cups of tea and coffee, while team captains registered their groups. They then attended a safety meeting given by the host, Waterside Lodge Southport Ltd.
The first race kicked off shortly after 10am. Each team took part in 5 separate races, with the fastest 3 teams going head to head, to decide the overall winner. The 3 remaining teams also competed in head to head races, with the slowest team being awarded a 'golden spoon'
Being a 'Family Fun Day' it was very encouraging to see parents crewing alongside their children. Crews quickly realised that if they were synchronised, they could go faster than a physically stronger crew. But each member had to work hard to achieve synchronisation.
For the smaller children, who could not take part, there was a bouncy castle and free face painting. However, it was not long before some of the crew members decided to get in on the act; one particular team had their faces decorated with black stripes; apparently it was to help them go faster!!
A DJ announced the teams for each race and gave a running commentary, as well as playing music throughout the day.
The aim of this event was for CSSC/HASSRA members and their families to have fun by either being part of a dragon boat team or simply by attending as spectators; to enjoy free entertainment in a family atmosphere. I think we achieved this.
What has CSSC to offer? www.cssc.co.uk
- North West members can exclusively shop online for cinema, Camelot, Chester Zoo, Southport Flower Show tickets and Hi Life cards.
www.cssc.co.uk/RegionalSites/NorthWestSite
- Trips to the theatre and a variety of other events/offers organised throughout the year by your local CSSC committee.
- A varied regional sporting events calendar; with some being qualifying events for national finals. Once in the North West Regional website click on 'Events' for a comprehensive list of events.
Phil Burke
NW Regional Treasurer
