Round Ubin Kayak Race 2008 - 9th November

This is an equation - SIM Canoeists style:

Weeks of intensive training


plus


Preparations the day before the day

On Saturday morning, the canoeists were at Kallang getting their battle equipment ready. Making sure their paddles were in tip-top condition, doing their oh-so-inspiring wave-breakers, transporting the boats, psyching each other for the big day...

Cutting, pasting, writing, painting... and finally all done!


Playing with doggie Lucky!


The Canoeists with their preeettty masterpieces!


equals


Performance

9th November 2008 - the day where the weeks of intensive trainings culminated in the final race for this year - the Round Ubin Kayak Race! Even though it was a maiden marathon experience for most of SIM Canoeists, we went and we conquered, all 22km of it!

Despite the favourable weather, the relentless currents, choppy waves and protruding rocks around Ubin island provided much challenge. Coupled with our inexperience, the race was quite a daunting task for many of us.

From the very start of the race, we had to pit our sprinting skills with the rest so as to not be delayed by other canoes' backwash. During the race, utmost effort - both physically and mentally - were required as we strategised and paced other paddlers. And finally, drawing on that last bit/drop of energy to give that perfect final burst to the finishing line.

The Team - after the race!


Receiving the Certificate of Participation


Yet, in spite of the challenges and blablabla mentioned above, our very own Captain Junsheng still managed to beat the odds and emerged 3rd for the T1 Senior Men Category!! Congrats Junsheng! You're definitely our club idol! :))

Our dear humble Captain Junsheng...


... and his medal!


Alright, so here's a sneak peak on what motivates Captain Junsheng when he paddled 22km to clinch his bronze medal!

"STEPH MY DEAREST" => :)))
"Sarah is at taka touching my car!!!" => -__-
"Focus on your strokes" => There, strokes are important!


Finally, not forgetting the people behind the scenes, who made sure that we were well-hydrated, well-fed and the event, well-chronicled. Your very presence at the event meant a great deal to us, really!

Caroline


Pamela Goh


And dearest Steph

It was, without a doubt, a fantastic experience! So guys and gals, train hard and join us on this amazing journey at the next marathon race!

Proud of you guys!!



-Nizam and Sarah