If you look back at the last half decade of Harrison races, I've put in a team every single time. I've been a part of teams for several years before that. I'm even going again this year. I'm not hating; the forum is a way to discuss how to make the sport and its races better. Thanks BackwardRowing, I appreciate it, but I don't think Kryssee wasn't belittling my input. She was just acknowledging the opinions of both mine and hers. Valid points from most.
I've said this on Facebook but I'll say it here.
I absolutely love paddlesports and all its disciplines, especially dragonboat. Lots of teamwork, camaraderie, and sportsmanship. People tie the boat up for each other. People high-five after a good race. People cheer each other on when watching the races. We aren't rude to each other when we are tent neighbors. We say hi to each other while passing by.
I started working on the Dragonzone docks since I was 16. I plan youth dragonboat programs for inner city kids. I run a dragonboat team. I founded a paddlesport training company. Ian (the director of Harrison) is awesome, we met in person. He knows I'd love to see his festival get better. I think the dragonboat community as a whole is a warm and welcoming group of people. When I think of dragonboat, I think of Ann, Greg, Alexis, Kamini, Jackie, Andrea, Ben, Kerry, FC, OW... I don't think about the random person with 2 posts who uses an acronym as a username.
What I don't understand is how a team can go from Rec to Comp and then suddenly think the way you do. Your team did great this year and I love supporting them as I have lots of friends on that team. FCHP doesn't trash talk One West and vice versa. There's mutual respect. And it's the same with Ares. I find that you have some of the best captains around. Someone's always says hi to me before I do. All of the girls smile or wave when we see each other. Basically, what I'm trying to say is, where did that comment even come from? Confused.
Your team is dedicated and has a good heart; please don't ruin it for them. It's unfortunate that you feel that way about Ares; I'm not sure what I've done to upset you. At least I've put my real name on the internet. Find a single post I wrote out of 400 on this forum that involves me starting an argument. If you find one, let me know. Regardless, have a good rest of the season.
Stay classy paddlers. And thanks everyone for the conversation. No hard feelings, just opinions
