You can lead a cow to water...

We had a fantastic time at the Dragon Boat Festival at Bristol City Docks!

Imagine if you will a team of athletes at the peak of physical condition, driving their trusty vessel through the water in a symphony of perfectly streamlined synchronism.

Unfortunately that was the opposition.

The Send a Cow/Rotary Sundown Club’s Dragon Boat team was more of a collection of individuals not necessarily paddling in the same direction or indeed remaining on top of their seats but doing so with an admirable enthusiasm.

That was the first race, during which we got to know each other, the boat, and which direction was forward (and, sadly, the joys of last place). However, with some further practice (on the way to the start line) and some truly inspiring drumming we soared to second place in our second race (out of 3 teams).

Between races we were treated to a BBQ and sandwiches thanks to the nice folks of Rotary Sundown who also provided cow ears, enthusiasm, and a hurried application of black and white face paint, which, combined with Moo-Macs instantly transformed us into a very realistic looking herd of cows. And even more importantly they were raising money for Send a Cow through the event.

The weather was kind to us and the atmosphere was one of good natured rivalry (in varying degrees – some teams had been spotted practicing for weeks in advance, while others were clearly just there for a fun day out), and where else could you see a boat full of men in Nun’s habits paddling for their lives against a boat load of zoo animals?

By the time of the final race the BBQ lunch and strawberries had taken their toll and again we brought up the rear so our presence was not required for the finals. But I think I speak for the whole team when I say we had the time of our lives and would be very pleased to be asked back again next year!