Sunday, September 30, 2007

Sunday, Sept 30, 2007 Race Finals Australia

Race Day Sunday 9-30-2007

After Saturday’s races the BC team was in the top one third. Our first race today we came in 3rd missing out on being in the semi finals by one tenth of a second. However, this ended up being in our favor, because we were seated in the race prior to the flower ceremony- only one of six full teams, along with 6 global mixed teams- to be on the water for the ceremony. We were ale to throw rose pedals in the water. Later, to our surprise, we actually came in first in our fun final division, because of a lane mix up. This afforded us both the opportunity to be in the flower ceremony as well as win in our division.

Our supporters lead masterly by captain James Cross and by strokers Ann-Marie and Aussie Michelle came off the start in first place and continued at breakneck speed. We were beaten only by an Australian team, who practice year round (taking Christmas off). The supporter team was a combination of members from Dragonheart, Singapore, Australia, Italy, Canada and Ester a gold medal World Champion from Australia (OZ). Glenna reports her race was “power paddling” and she loved her drummers Donna (OZ) and our very own Laura. Paula reports the races were empowering. And Jeanne said she almost felt like throwing up- she paddled so hard. Mary Alice found the experience life changing and enriching. Carol said “what a rush” Jane is very grateful to have been able to partake in this enriching and moving event.

The finals of the Abreast in Australia 2007 had four Aussie teams and two Canadian teams. In the end it was the exuberant Missabittatitti Aussie team that won the final race. They are not to be confused with teams Tittytittybangbang or Twintitties or Titavators.

With most of us heading back to the hotel, we were lucky to have Karen and Peter stay to collect our medals and certificates.

To cap off the feeling we experienced the entire weekend, we won first place in our first race and our last race. We really are winners.

10 Comments:

lynne balman said...

Congatulations, Livona and Ira... so much to celebrate this year in being joyfully alive with such love and courage and strength. Your face glows in each photo taken and sent to us.

I'm just cracking up at those Aussie names and having fun spitting them out for friends. So proud of all of you - - what amazing paddling strength and spirit! I expect there will be some let down now with the races ended, having spent so many months planning for this festival-- keep your spirits high and continue having wonderfu adventures there.

Sending lots of love your way - -
Lynne Balman

September 30, 2007 1:01 PM  
christine said...

Hats off to all of you from Montana. A few of my breast cancer survivor friends were cheering you all on from here. I will let them know how you did! Congrats!

MaryEllen, yes, one week without hearing from you and I forgot what your voice sounds like!!!!! Of course, getting the phone call at 5:30 a.m. had nothing to do with it! Lots of love, enjoy the rest of your trip! Christine

September 30, 2007 6:38 PM  
Phyllis Patnode said...

Happy anniversary Vona and Ira!! We still have you beat since our 48th anniversary was the 26th. Where has the time gone?!

I am so glad you could make this trip Vona. You look wonderful and so happy!

Love,
Phyllis

September 30, 2007 9:16 PM  
Linda said...

Proud as Punch of all of you! And I get to brag at the Central Vermont Medical Center Breast Care Open House tomorrow, and brag I will!

Two teachers today commented that my smile was bigger than usual and what was up. They were sorry I asked, 'cause they were trapped as I launched into the whole story...!

Go forth and have fun, knowing the Willabee Wannabees are walking around with huge grins on their faces....

And cudos to Missabitatitti...they were such a hoot in Vancouver and I'm sure they have been working off 'another body part' for the past 2 years getting ready for this amazing event.

And Mary's soccer team won their homecoming game--winners all around this weekend! OK now I'm really going to stop writing--miss you all, safe travels.

Linda Mc.

October 1, 2007 11:19 AM  
Anonymous said...

Congratulations to all of our Dragonhearters from Vermont - WBCS paddlers, supporter paddlers,supporters and friends! Can't wait to hear the exciting stories first-hand when you return. Think abou it - you finished 24th out of 72 international teams; that puts you all in the TOP 3rd in world dragonboating. Love to all.Ralph
& Eleanor

October 1, 2007 12:13 PM  
Anonymous said...

Sooooo proud of you all! Yaaaay Dragonheart!! Hugs all around - you ROCK! - Liisa :)

October 1, 2007 1:21 PM  
gayletorrey said...

You all look so happy,what an experience!Carol and Laura enjoy your time together.I can't wait to hear all about everything!
love and hugs,Gayle

October 1, 2007 10:41 PM  
Paige said...

You all are so awesome! You have done Dragonheart proud. Congratulations on the two 1sts! There's no way to tell you what a thrill it is to read these blogs and imagine all of you over there, sitting beautiful. May the deep glow of the festival stay with you forever. Happy 45th, Livona and Ira! Woo hoo! Love to all..Paige

October 3, 2007 7:10 AM  
Paige said...

You all are so awesome! You have done Dragonheart proud. Congratulations on the two 1sts! There's no way to tell you what a thrill it is to read these blogs and imagine all of you over there, sitting beautiful. May the deep glow of the festival stay with you forever. Happy 45th, Livona and Ira! Woo hoo! Love to all..Paige

October 3, 2007 7:11 AM  
Trina said...

Hi Mom (Allen)!! Reading about you drumming, almost felt like we were there with you! It sounds like you're having such a fantastic time, with a truly amazing bunch of people. We can't wait to hear about all of your adventures, things you've seen and the people you've met.
Liv crossed most of the monkey bars at school today-very proud. Ben starts clarinet lessons next Mon.-very excited!!
Love you, love you, love you!!
Hurrah for DRAGONHEART VERMONT!!!
Many congratulations on all of the teams successes! So proud of everyone, the togetherness, sharing, caring and love for life. Way to go, mates!!
Love to all, Mark, Trina, Ben & Olivia

October 3, 2007 9:04 PM  

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