Yesterday (Saturday 8 December 2018) the CYSM Sea Dragons competed at the Carrum Regatta and continued to grow stronger as a team. The day was jam-packed with 44 or so races, of which we participated in:

• Premier Mixed 10s 200m - with two boats named Lightning and Thunder (luckily we didn't get any of these weather conditions!)
• Premier Open 10s 200m - placing 2nd overall
• Premier Womens 10s 200m - placing 3rd overall
• Premier Mix 20s 2km - placing 3rd overall
• Premier Open 20s 500m - placing 3rd overall

The day could not have happened without the support of all the race officials and volunteers. We would like to especially thank both Zoe and Papa Meyer (Shane) for their tremendous help throughout the day!

Matt Ma's First Racing Experience with CYSM Sea Dragons

We would also like to highlight the experiences of one of first time paddlers with the club, Matt Ma! Read about his experience below:

Carrum Regatta 2018. What a way to end the year! My first Regatta with CYSM and it was an amazing experience. Throughout my time in the CYSM family, I have met countless people who strive to achieve success through the level of passion, commitment and dedication towards the sport and also to their team. This was evident to me on day one of my trial period and because of that, I signed myself up pretty much immediately.  

The training sessions that I attended alongside CYSM team members and coaches on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays geared me up for Race Day and inspired me to try and perform better from one training session to the next. It was a truly amazing experience to know that all the hard effort of the team and the fruition from that commitment would be on display at Carrum.

On the day, I must say there were a lot of highlights! I love the moments prior to the race starting where the whole team is focused. One Mind, One Purpose, One Goal. The exhilaration which hits you when you hear the word “Go!” and your body kicks into motion. And the point where your legs, body and shoulders are on fire, but you push on until the race ends. For me, that was an amazing feeling when you push yourself to the limit but to know you’re not alone and all your buddies are next to you doing the same thing for that same goal.

That teamwork, friendship and comradery is not only displayed on the boat but also off the boat as well! The banquet of food available from team members bringing a plate to share with everybody, the sound of laughter from the team which was resoundingly louder than any other team AND to the point where it’s hard to hear announcements, to borrowing thongs from friends because I snapped my only pair and had to walk barefoot everywhere. I believe the Carrum Regatta was an amazing experience due to the amazing team I am so lucky to be a part of. So, thank-you CYSM for letting me join your family!

As for next year, “Bring It On!” 2019 should look out cause Sea Dragons are coming to dominate!