CSSC and HASSRA once again joined forces to stage their second dragon boat event following the huge success of the previous years' event. 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 10.15am. Each team took part in 4 separate races, and times were accumulated to sort out the order for the final set of races, the 5th and 6th team took part in a head to head to see who would end up with the wooden spoon, the remaining 4 teams had two races each and their times were added together to sort out the final positions.
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, and a couple of dance classes for them, Once again, it was not long before some of the crew members decided to get in on the act; doing everything in there power to try and intimidate the opposition.
The resident DJ announced the teams for each race and gave a running commentary, as well as playing music throughout the day.
Once again 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.
The eventual winners were the Titans, under the guidance of their team captain Ashley Robertson, however the day was all about having fun, and I think everyone who attended whether it was participating or as a spectator, seemed to be enjoying the day.
Thanks need to go to the Waterside lodge staff who once again were fantastic and kept everything running smoothly, I would also like to thank Ashley Robertson and Suzanne Wharton who organised the event, and also Phil Burke, who although away on holiday and unable to attend, had put a lot of effort in leading up to the event, and finally all of the people who were there and helped make the day as good as it was, and thank you for all the feedback sent through, it really was appreciated. I look forward to seeing you all (and a few more) next year.
