Updated: Mon, Dec 16 2002 by Yiling
"I can't believe Safra beat Safsa!!!"
This exclamation was overheard at the prize presentation ceremony where Safra was presented the trophy for coming in 3rd in the National Championships 24-Crew Mixed Final race.
Consider Safra's opponents in the Finals line-up: Ngee Ann Poly, NJC, Safsa, NY Poly; teams made up of lithe, young bodies that are on an average 10-15 years younger than Safra rowers. So, we veterans still got some crowing to do yet. It is really something to cheer about!
To be sure, the weekend's weather reflects our sentiments. Grey and uncertain. Safra turned in an excellent performance during the 2002 June race and expectations inadvertently ran high for this Regatta.
The ladies's team had an easy win in their heat on Saturday, leading by almost one boat length when they crossed the finishing line. The mens' team was not as lucky. They were in a difficult lane (1). The Mixed team came in 2nd in their heat, narrowly losing out to the Canadian team (by 0.04 seconds) but proceeded to the final because of a "false" start by the Canadian team (which added "ominous" 5 seconds to their total time).
But the ladies were to be dealt a disappointment on Sunday in the Semi finals. Their opponents were strong and they had to settle for 4th place in a closely contested race. This put them out of the Finals.
So, it was eventually left to the Mixed Final, Safra's last ditch attempt to bring home a medal. But the wait before the race was interminable; rowers went from being expectant, to tense, to tired (when will the race start?!?!?!?!). They were soaked to their skin, uncomfortably wrapped in their oversized life vests and their limbs were numb (from the cold as well as the awkward sitting positions).
Finally, the VIP settled down and the race began. Safra (lane 4) powered off with a good start and was showing signs of leading the pack by the 200m mark. As we neared the ending point however, Ngee Ann and NJC charged up from behind and Safra had to settle for 3rd place. Hey, who cares? It was a well-rowed race, we got a medal and we've proven Safra has IT (to win one of the top spots)!
I must commend rowers for their concentration and "never say die" spirit. The race could have gone any direction but our rowers held on, stayed co-ordinated and gave their best shot right till to the finishing line.
Many thanks for our supporters too, those who never give up on us. Rowers who were not rowing but came down to show their comradeship; ex-rowers whom we never get to see for the whole year; friends and families of rowers who brought nibbles, hot drinks for the rowers and our sponsor for the fruits all the way from Toa Payoh! Guys you know who you are.
Are we going to do it better next year? I think I can hear a resounding YES!!!
So, guys and gals, can we count on seeing you at our trainings and activities next year?
Meanwhile, I think I can dust off the dirt from my bicycle.....