Moving in sync to the beat of the drum, the Bundaberg Dragon Boat team triumphed over their competitors in the Wide Bay Series trophy.
Hosting the Dragon Boat Wide Bay series final in home water on the Burnett River, may have given the team the edge they needed to take out, last year’s winner and close rivals, the 1770 team.
But it was more than competing at home that secured the win as the comradery between teammates peaked as they hit the water leaving them to win each of the beginning three rounds before crossing the finish line first to smash the Dragon Boat Wide Bay Series out of the water.
Bundaberg Dragon Boat secretary Christine Cross said the team from 1770 was a very strong team, and to beating them was the icing on the cake, after winning two of the three previous rounds in the Dragon Boats Wide Bay Series.
“They go to a lot of regattas, going down south and win against some Brisbane teams, so they are experienced,” Christine said.
“We’ve recently been doing a lot of rebuilding of the club, with a lot of training.
“It showed on the water today, as everyone was so pumped and ready to get out there and win.”
Christine said timing was everything as they hit the water, and the paddlers who ranged from 12 years of age right up to the competitors in their late sixties strived to win.
“The average age in our boat was 54,” she said.
“Made up of family members, and we often have husband-and-wife teams, like Stan and Linda Tincknell who competed together today.”
Joining Bundaberg Dragon Boat Club six years ago for fitness and companionship, the Stan and Linda said they both enjoyed the water, and this was a sport they could do together as a couple.
“We love the water, and this was something we could do together – and I don’t like fishing, so this was it!” Linda said.
Before the last race took place Stan said the final would swing either way, but they were already winners by just turning up.
“This is a sport for all ages, it’s all fun, we encourage anyone and everyone as this is a sport for all fitness levels,” Stan said.
“We’ve made some great friendships across the group.”
Bundaberg Dragon Boats paddle all year round for exercise, and they train Wednesday at 3.30 pm, and Saturday at 2.30 pm for longer sessions.
For more information check out the Facebook page.
