Kootenay Rhythm Dragons LOL team dodged grape sized hailstones while attending the 12th Annual ATB Financial Lethbridge Rotary Dragon Boat Festival in Lethbridge, Alberta July 6 to 9.
Luckily, the weather cooperated long enough each day allow the races in all heats to finish without a problem.
“It was a fabulous experience testing our paddling skills for the first time as a team, while building friendships with paddlers from teams throughout Alberta, BC and Montana,” said team captain Rebecca George.
The Lethbridge Dragonfest volunteers and sponsors ran a smooth and efficient festival with live musical entertainment, vendors and refreshments for the participants and spectators to enjoy during the weekend. As usual, the Rose Ceremony commemorating the lives of people with breast cancer was the highlight of the weekend.
An exciting twist to the races was the last minute delivery of brand new Elemental International Racing specification Dragon Boats.
Of the 62 participating teams, 46 mixed and 16 women’s teams competed. Overall, the LOLs placed fourth in the Women’s B Final competition with times of 2.47.73 and 2.51.22 on the 500 meter course.
Throughout the season the Kootenay Rhythm Dragons’ two teams will participate in three more festivals. The SIS team will compete in Kelowna July 27 and 28, and in Kalispell September 7 and 8. The LOL team will be in Penticton September 6 to 8.
