Rowing
The Future of Kai Tak W ords: M ark W el l es and Melissa Davis | Photos: Jennie Chao
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n 5 October, the Hong Kong Water Sports Council hosted the inaugural Kai Tak Water Sports Demonstration drawing participation from the Canoe Union, the Dragon Boat Association and the Hong Kong and China Rowing Association. Rowers and paddlers from the Club participated in support of their respective National Sports Associations. Although a member-only event with no participation from the public, the demonstration attracted a total of 180 paddlers, with 12 for water safety and over 20 volunteers helping to
support things on the day. All participants had a wonderful time and the day was seen as a great success. The Club’s dragon boat team was one of the first dragon boat crews to spear paddles in untested waters at Kai Tak, but they were also encouraged to ‘make it fun’ and wear a costume. With this in mind, Club member Jennie Chao sourced some slick Captains’ hats that were teamed with white polo shirts and black shorts to finish off the look of a smart, well-dressed crew. After a quick beverage and
timely salute, all 12 Captains eagerly boarded their vessel and paddled out. To the crew’s delight, they were greeted by another dragon boat crew who happily accepted the offer of a few friendly races to test the race conditions in the channel. After many laughs and light banter, the crew was replenished with yet another beverage to end an enjoyable and amusing Sunday afternoon of paddling. The demonstration has certainly shown the suitability of the Kwun Tong Typhoon Shelter and Kai Tak Approach Channel for these water sports and the organisers could not have been more pleased with the outcome of this demonstration day.
FOR SALE – SCORPION RIB The Scorpion Serket 98 T Top RIB is probably one of the fastest boats in Hong Kong with a top speed exceeding 60 knots!
Photo of actual RIB approaching Clearwater Bay Marina. This model as selected by Sir Ben Ainslie as a chase boat for the Americas Cup
2013 fully-loaded demo boat sold with the balance of the manufacturers five year warranty on hull and tubes. Available for viewing and sea trial at Clearwater Bay Marina. Sensible offers invited based on HK$1,688,000
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1 28ScorpionRibAD-3.indd | NOVEMBER 2014 AHOY!
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28/8/14 3:34 PM