A letter from our captain. Arizona Dragon Boat Race 2012. Tempe, Arizona
Dear Trojans,
Congratulations on a phenomenal weekend of racing! I am honored to have had to opportunity to race with a team that showed so much courage, determination, and strength. I hope that everyone is proud of what they’ve accomplished this semester in the weeks leading up to Arizona. This year’s Cardinal Boat was the strongest Cardinal boat I have ever seen – you guys have come such a long way. I remember watching your final race and thinking that I got the heat number wrong, you guys looked like one of the adult teams that have been paddling for years! Gold Boat, we are pushing the limits every day and every race.The journey to Arizona has not been easy. This weekend I saw the results of the countless hours of practice and hard work out on the water and in the gym. I couldn’t be more proud of the ferocity, the focus, and the discipline that both boats showed. We generally make too much of winning – such is the nature of competition, someone has to win. However, the mere fact of winning doesn’t make one great. We all achieved greatness this weekend – we came together as a boat, we trusted each other, we fought for each other, and we established a team identity. We raced at and beyond the limits of our capability. We earned the respect of other teams. These intangibles are the hardware we all carry back from Arizona – they are worth far more than any medal.During the week off, I’d like everyone to reflect back on the races this weekend and what they meant to you. Be proud that you always raced your best, without compromise. We could all be champions of C division, but would that really mean anything to you? Wanting to test yourself against the best, to thirst for greatness in the face of defeat, to fight for every inch of water – that is what makes this team so special.I want to thank the E-board and Coaches for all their help this weekend. A semester’s effort goes into making sure that one weekend runs smoothly. Thank them the next time you see them. Also thank you to Evelyn and Keith for calling and steering for us. We couldn’t have done it without you guys.Enjoy your well deserved rest and prepare to come back more experienced and hungrier than ever. We still have improvements to be made in the gym and out on the water.James“Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is”
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College Finals (Forgot the times. .5 seconds between first and third):
1.UCLA Blue
2.UCLA Gold
3.USC Gold
