With a solid winter off-season preparation, the team was set for its first regatta for race season 2016/17.

There were many firsts in this regatta:

1. First time competition for Bella, Sue P, Alex, Andrew & JJ
2. Women's 20s crew (with welcome support from 5 Southern Storm girls, Tony on sweep and Crispy on drum)
3. We win our first race of the day (Open 20s) against our Docklands-based counterparts (YRD, Flames, Storm and Dragon Masters)
4. Trish officially drums her first regatta - lots of energy and motivating drive
5. Celebrated Thi's birthday - sang to her twice (and with cake)
6. Vix almost got taken out (row 10) during the turn of the second lap of the 2 km sweeps race by the dragon head of a competitor's boat 
7. Importantly, we came home with well-earned and hard-fought bling. 

We are proud to say that we placed third overall in each of the four categories that we entered:
- Premier 20s Opens, Mixed & Women's (200 m)
- 2 km sweeps race. 

What hasn't changed:
1. Our lunches - need I say more
2. The great support we get from the CYSM Sea Dragons family and friends - thanks Thi and Karen for volunteering for the day
3. Great photos and videos to relive the experience
4. The awesome fun and camaraderie we have
5. Our resolve to always learn from the experience and improve for the next race/regatta.

A big thank you to everyone who made this regatta a success. In particular to coaches Joe and Phil, Eric (regatta captain), Mandy (race day management), Thi and Karen (club volunteers).

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Read what some of our newest members have to say about their very first competition.

Check out photos from the regatta on our Facebook page.