Nagambie Lake Regatta: my first regatta since my return to dragon boating. It is also my first ever regional one too. ‘Was I ready for this? Did I still have it in me? You don’t know until you try Linda!’, I thought to myself.

The day had come and I woke at 4:40am and surprisingly felt really good given that I had only slept just over 3.5h. I checked the weather forecast multiple times and tried to envisage the day. ‘I think we’ll be ok, some rain won’t hurt us. The heat? It’s a water sport for god sakes. Thunderstorm? Pft. Come at me.’ That’s me psyching myself up.

My ride came...it was go time. It was great to have good company on the way to Nagambie, Jack driving and Connie in the passenger seat. We watched the sunrise, drove through rain and sunshine and made a much needed Maccas stop. When we finally arrived, the weather was great. Perfect weather, overcast and light breeze. Not too hot, not too cold. Beautiful. It was going to be a good day. I just know it.

At first it was slow going. I kept myself occupied by chatting and snacking. Carlos was in competition mode. Serious but with passion. Very inspiring. I was happy to hear that the first race was 1km and my god did we do well. I felt good after it too! And thought to myself, ‘That wasn’t so bad. I can do this!’, I was pumped. I had a nice break and was on reserve for two races.

By the afternoon, the real day began. Back-to-back paddling! I don’t think I’ve ever experienced back-to-back like this, let alone 500m! I didn't count how many. I didn't want to know! I just went in and paddled, reminding myself to keep good technique, timing and feel the resistance. In rain, thunderstorm and sunshine, the regatta still went on. Not once did I stop in the middle of the race (even though I was seated in row 8-9, I was proud of myself).

The day ended on a high! We had won four bronze but I was stoked for the team for achieving a gold as well (medalling in all categories we entered). It just proved that hard work, good team work and good technique and strategy really do pay off and I got to experience and see that in action. It was truly a great first regatta experience back!

When I first started dragon boating, I wasn't so confident. I needed to warm up to the sport and teammates. Second time round, I feel a lot more confident and more motivated. It was good to see some familiar faces and new faces. Everyone has been so warm and welcoming! It made it so much easier to get back into it. I am also very impressed with the marketing efforts and branding. Really well done! It was also great to come back to a new and improved shed with showers as well!

I’m glad that my body still remembers how to paddle 😊 and I am very happy to be back.

I hope to become stronger and fitter and look forward to hitting the water with this great team!

*hand in now* “SEA DRAGONS!!”