So, the 31st Annual Canadian International Dragon Boat Festival was a smashing success. I had a riot at this event. It was three days of absolute pandemonium but worth every second of it. If you have never had a chance to attend, mark the dates on your Calendar for next year – June 19 -21, 2020.
Over 5,500 people on 200 teams spent the weekend paddling their asses off around False Creek trying to be the best they can.
This is the last race of the whole weekend. It is called the “Guts and Glory” race. There are 16 of the top teams (mixed) and they do a 2 km race. It is one of the most exciting of the races.
It was also the only race I got to see.
I am the Stage Manager for the Peak Performer’s stage. We had an amazing lineup of music for this weekend:
Before Jill Barber’s performance, we had out opening ceremonies – Dignitaries from all levels of government, corporate sponsors and representatives from First Nations and the Chinese Community all were present to pay homage and tribute to all the racers.
We had performers from the Chinese Community – gotta love the costumes. My boss was jonesing to have a picture with these amazing ladies.
The rest of the weekend was spent listening to music:
The only downside was a slight mishap. In my zeal to try and get everything done, I tripped and went down on the bike path. Skinned myself reasonably well, too.
On another plus note, I walked my ass off…
No wonder my feet hurt.
Al Zylstra 