|
Republic Polytechnic’s very own Dragon Boat (RPDB) team competed in the inaugural Singapore International Water Festival (SIWF). 2 Men’s team and 1 Women’s team raced in the Inter-POL-ITE category. This is the first time RPDB is racing at the Marina Barrage, so it was a whole new experience for the team.
The first to compete was the Women’s team. As there were no finals, all the Dragon Boat teams had to vie for the fastest timing in their specific categories. RPDB’s
Women’s team paddled their way to victory, beating the other teams and earned themselves a Gold!
Next up was the Men’s team, which had a tighter race compared to the Women’s. Due to delays
from the previous races, teams were rushed at the starting point and the command to start was called abruptly. Despite starting the race with their boat pointing towards the wrong lane, RPDB’s Men’s team managed to clinch a victory in their set. However, their efforts were written off by Ngee Ann Polytechnic as they got the fastest timing in the category when they paddled in a separate heat.
However, our Men’s team still managed to get Silver, ahead of Singapore Polytechnic.
RPDB also sent down another team, comprising mostly of juniors, to compete in the Inter-POL-ITE Men’s category.
As this was their first Dragon Boat race, it was understandable that they did not manage to win
the race. However, the experience gained from the race was valuable as it will help them excel in future races.
The SIWF was a preview to the upcoming POL-ITE games, which will be held on Friday, 26th June 2009. RPDB will be out there to vie for their 3rd consecutive Gold for the Men’s and 2nd consecutive for the Women’s. All the best to RPDB – continue bringing success to the team and the school!
| 
