Brilliant atmosphere at final day of Dragon Boats

By Volunteer Michelle Harris

It was the last day of the Dragon Boat event at the Lagan, Belfast. The sun was shining and everyone was smiling!

When I arrived at the Waterfront Hall I was greeted by Games Ambassadors from all around the world. From Spain to all the way from America! I had some interesting conversations with them about how they were finding Northern Ireland while suggesting to them the lesser known attractions in Belfast. One of the volunteers even said that if she won the lottery she would move to Northern Ireland!

That’s quite the complement!

Another volunteer from Spain seemed to be a bundle of energy as every time she met anybody from back home she greeted them with excited chatter!

The event began with the Mixed-10’s and after beating Singapore Police Sports Association and York Dragons, the German Police and Fire Team won the whole section! In the Mixed-20’s York Dragons won the section after defeating the German Police and Fire Team  and Aurora Australis. When Canadian side York Dragons were walking down to the boats, they had a bagpipe player which excited the crowd. He surprised the crowd by performing a rendition of Jingle Bells on their way down to the final race! They must have been so excited that it felt like Christmas!

Throughout my time at the event I have noticed the wide range of spectators. Today, it felt especially family orientated with many families making a day of it. Young children were getting involved by picking their favourites and cheering them on. One set of siblings weren’t sure who they wanted to win so they just picked their favourite colour and supported them! Seeing the children get excited about watching sport made me think about how our games could inspire a generation like the events over the water last summer.

The volunteers were offered the chance to take part in a Dragon Boat race of our very own. Why would I decline such an offer!? We helped each other into the small boats which didn’t feel as steady as they looked! The competitors made it look easy! It was very hard for us novices to keep in time with each other but it was all good fun. Just one of the perks of being a volunteer!

I’ve grown to enjoy the Dragon Boat event and I have really enjoyed my two days watching it. I’d definitely encourage people to go and watch a sport that they usually wouldn’t consider!

My next volunteer shift is on Wednesday at Queen’s Sport Upper Malone which will be hosting Gaelic Football, Rugby 7’s and Soccer 11 A-Side. Bring it on! 

Find out more at www.2013wpfg.com