And Longwang Ruled

The Dragon Kings (Longwang 龍王) are the most widely worshipped rain deities in Chinese culture. Residing in underwater crystal palaces, the Dragon Kings control the weather, rainfall, and bodies of water. And boy did they have a field day today.

Here we are again…first race of the season, and it was a day alright. We knew there’d be rain, but were still surprised by the sheer amount of it. And the temperature of that divine water. It was pouring today, ice cold water, heavy winds, and no let-up at any time. It got so bad that tents started blowing away…which was right around the time Alkame decided to throw the towel into the ring and cancel the last part (2K) of the day. Everyone wanted, needed, to go home.

After getting up at 5AM to make some fresh regatta pasta, we quickly made our way to Kelso Lake and found a prime parking spot – which would later save our lives. Well, mine anyway. On today’s agenda were 200m, 500m and 2K races, the latter eventually being omitted by vote of teams and their captains. Maui actually had a very good day, even in this weather and especially with a strong head wind. No medals were earned but the first 500m heat produced a second-best ever time, which is saying something under the circumstances.

Staying dry and warm was as much work as paddling it seemed, and yours truly didn’t fare well so he retired into the closely parked car for a bit, just to warm up. Supporters don’t have the same workout as the racers do, so mild hypothermia and boredom-fatigue are real concerns!

Let’s pray to the Dragon Kings for more favourable weather next weekend, when there’s a double-header at Pickering. Go Tribal!