Dragon Boats: Day 1

By Volunteer Michelle Harris

The action hit the Lagan today for the Dragon Boat event which proved to be an enjoyable and fun day for competitors, spectators and volunteers alike.

When I arrived at the area, I took a walk around the Waterfront Hall. There was a real buzz in the air between competitors and volunteers with some competitors giving away pins to show their gratitude.

While waiting for the event to start I caught up with two volunteers, Chloe from Belfast and Jacquie from Bristol. When asked what they were enjoying about the Games, Chloe said: “I think it is nice meeting new people from different countries, becoming friends with them and staying with them throughout our shifts. It’s nice meeting the competitors and hearing their stories.”

Jacquie said: “What I find interesting is that people follow the gamesaround the world and the amount of effort that’s put in.”

Everyone involved have different reasons for wanting to play a part in the World Police and Fire Games. For Chloe, it was the London 2012 Olympic Games: “ I think it was the London Olympics and when the World Police and Fire Games came along I thought it would be a good way to give back to the community.”

 

South Australian Fire Power dominated the Mixed Senior-10’s race from the start against the Irish Prison Service. Although, the Irish Prison Service were only introduced to the joy of Dragon Boat racing two weeks ago! They put in a fair effort but simply couldn’t defeat South Australian Fire Power who won the Mixed Senior competition.

In the Women-10’s race, it was initially a victory for CPS Bad Buoys. In the following races, however, Philadelphia Police Boat Team took the lead against them and Aurora Australis. Philadelphia Police Boat Team went on to win the section! Maybe it was the loud chants from their supporters that gave them the motivation! Their supporters were very vocal in their support, showing that they were very competitive and determined that their team would win! I even overheard one of their supporters teaching a volunteer about the technical side of the event!

It is nice to see people from all over the world come to Northern Ireland and support the World Police and Fire Games. Let’s continue to prove that we can produce the ‘Friendliest Games Ever’!

The Dragon Boat event continues tomorrow with the Men-10’s and Men-20’s races at Lanyon Place from 11:00am. On Sunday, we have the Mixed-10’s and Mixed-20’s races with the first race starting at 11:30am. Come along and see this unique event!