CYSM Sea Dragons had an amazing regatta yesterday at Nagambie Lakes! The weather didn't play up and we exceeded our expectations once again. We entered into 5 categories and placed in all 5, even the dreaded 2km race! We also had so much fun joining forces with Southern Storm and Mount Beauty to create a formidable Premier Women's 20s boat and boy did they deliver by placing 3rd overall! We hope all of you ladies had a great time paddling with us and continue to join forces in future races. Go Sea Storm Beauties! We would also like to thank our volunteers on the day, Bella, Thi and Alethea. Without all of you, we would not have performed at our best!

Tracy Crasto recounts her first ever regatta experience!

I was totally excited and couldn’t sleep the previous night, in case I overslept and missed my ride to Nagambie Lakes. However, everything went well! I woke up on time, got picked up and reached the regatta at Nagambie Lakes in no time.

I was nervous and super thrilled that I had just one women’s 200m race to race in but then I saw my name for the 2K race and my fears got to me. Both Captains came along and said that: “you’ve been doing more than 2K long runs for training so don’t worry about it, you’ll be fine, just enjoy yourself and have fun.” Anyway, the day went along, I’m already here and can’t runaway, so just go with the flow… that’s my favourite policy. Life is full of surprises, so make the most of your time now. It was a long wait before my race started, but it didn’t bother me at all as I enjoyed watching the races and cheered for our team who were out there. I enjoyed lunch with the crew, specially prepared by Claire, Carol, Young and Tina, which was simply amazing!

When we got ready for the race, everything was organised really well. The nerves were getting to me while I waited to get onto the boat, but once I was with the crew, I was fearless and suddenly gained so much confidence with the crew. Everyone’s’ words of wisdom was to “do your best and keep in time.” We paddled away to our starting point and got ready. The referee announced “Are you ready?” “GO!” At that moment, the whole crew burst with exceptional energy as the race began. Everyone was focused and confidently paddling, keeping in time and listened to the sweep’s calls. It was fast and in no time we arrived at the finish line. Wow I felt so good; I did it! All the training prepared me for this first race.

It was so much fun to paddle with such an amazing team who are so united and connected with each other. Thank-you so much for giving me this chance and making this memory wonderful for me. Tracy