After several months of very little water activity due to the river conditions, the Wraysbury Dragons & Waka Ama re-scheduled annual long distance race was eagerly attended by local dragon boat and outrigger clubs. The 7 kms dragon boat race and 12 kms outrigger race took place in glorious sunshine and friendly river conditions. The dragon boats and outriggers lined at the start made a splendid sight.
Henley Dragons brought a young crew to this event, including a number of GB Premier paddlers who will be competing at the European Nations later in the year, whand it proved too powerful on this occasion for the seasoned Wraysbury Dragons campaigners. WSPC’s Dave Taylor presented the perpetual trophy to Cat Cassell of Henley Dragons, worthy winners of the race.
Wraysbury Waka Ama were drawn to start last in the outrigger race, and overtook the crews in front to win the perpetual trophy. The winning crew comprised Jenny Williams, Lucy Scott, Lynne Ruddick, Boris Hales, Colin Smith and Jack Wormald.
It was great to see Hurricanes and Kingston Royals enter both dragon boat and outrigger crews, encouraging all their members to take part.
Hard racing and great camaraderie amongst all the paddlers are what these two wonderful watersports are all about.
