That moment in time

Nov 3 may be just an ordinary day. To dragonboaters, it has plenty of significance. An event that dragonboaters look forward to. It’s the Singapore River Regatta 2007. I remembered the night before I was tossing and turning on my bed for quite a while. Fortunately I had few hours to recharge on bed. That night’s dreams composed of haphazard images of the race. Must be the anticipation and pre-race jittery. I fixed 2 alarm clocks just to make sure that I’ll get up on time. The first thing I did in the morning was to grab my I-pod and listen to one of the motivational songs – I believe. I had compiled 20 of such songs to psych myself up before the race.

After breakfast at Ya Kun, I took a walk to UOB Plaza. Instead of the usual office workers in executive outfits, the financial district is transformed into a lively fiesta of assorted teams in tees, singlet and tank tops, paddles lying neatly in rows, teams zealously warming up before their events, etc.

Team B was the first to compete at 9.45 am. They started off really well, a little ahead of the other teams. However, after midway, two other teams caught up and team B emerged 3rd at 1.40.70. Then came team A’s turn at 10.15 am. The starts were fast and furious, almost neck to neck with other teams. But, during the last 50 m, team A showed signs of energy depletion. Like team B, team A was placed 3rd at 1.44.31.

The highlight of our events is undoubtedly the 20-mixed team. We were against not only strong opponents but top teams. Unfazed and not looking intimidated, we decided that we’ll row our best. Indeed, we did. The boat displayed no sign of letting up. Our impetus showed that we are a boat to be reckoned with. The feeling was exhilarating. The experience was astounding. We simply got absorbed in the process of rowing, be in the present, trust our bodies and allow the performance to unfold – the kind that makes us feel great to be alive. The team came in 4th but we created an excellent battle – an experience that the will leave an indelible mark in our memories.