Wasabi Paddling Club

Sunday 500s

2011-08-07T11:04:00.000-07:00

No medals for psurgers today. Fought hard though and I ended up with lots of new jerseys. Word is Hungary in 2013. Let the training begin!

Senior a ten man boats

2011-08-06T13:35:00.000-07:00

Second yesterday in 200m and third today in 500m with Connie calling and Sooze driving. Fun time though no bling.

200meters

2011-08-05T12:17:00.000-07:00

Looks like no bling for wasabians at worlds today. I can say that the senior a boat felt better each run but just didn't get the job done. Psurgers off tomorrow unless they are seated in a ten man race late afternoon. Rain delay right now.

Kathy's back

2011-08-05T05:50:00.001-07:00

finding our groove

2011-08-04T14:10:00.000-07:00

All wasabians now sporting bling. Not sure of all the colors but my boat took bronze by .04 seconds. Lummie has taken over my role as the claw. I humbly hand over the tube of Neosporin.

2000 m

2011-08-03T13:04:00.000-07:00

The weather gods were kind today and we had a cooler day than those preceding for the race. There was a light mist coming down and I thought that might play to our advantage. Unfortunately for the power surgers here, both boats had off starts. At this level of competition you just can't give up the start and get to the podium, even if it is a 2000m race. So, no medals for the Wasabi psurgers today. Of course, Senior A had the same experience in Prague and went on to medal in each of the remaining distances. Just need to find the hang and bang and that will take us to the glide.

Opening ceremonies

2011-08-02T18:54:00.000-07:00

Whenever I have seen sporting events held in different countries like the Olympics I have thought that the athletes hosting must miss the fact that they aren't traveling to some distant location. I had no idea what it is like to represent your country at home. People talk to you from their cars to say "go USA". They honk in support. It is really amazing.
Tonight we went to opening ceremonies. There was the usual corralling of the athletes by country to parade in. Lots of pictures taken so I am sure some will be posted. Went inside and had the normal dignitaries giving speeches. Then the music started and we were soon dancing in the crowds. Then the us contingent started dancing over to the other countries and it ended up a huge line of international dancers high fiving. The energy was great and it was nice to see Connie enjoying us enjoying it.
Then, the evening got even more amazing. One of our teammates had met a restaurant owner at starbucks when he was impressed by her biceps. He invited her to bring her room mates back with her to Malios prime where he fed them a three course dinner for free. He told them to bring the team back for free appetizers. We had taken a picture for them and the teammates that had met him had framed it and taken it to him. When we got there tonight we had bread, shrimp, steak tips, cheesecake, chocolate cake... Going back to normal life is going to be tough!
Tomorrow is the 2000. Stay tuned.

Florida

2011-08-02T10:24:00.001-07:00

Ok, not to complain, but let's talk about conditions for just a minute....it's hot. No, really, I am talking HOT. Like, 6:30 am on the balcony and you are sweating already kind of hot. We have been hydrating like maniacs for a couple of weeks (because we always do what coach tells us to) and STILL it is just overwhelming. Our second practice was more in the middle of the day, sun is beating down, and at the end we are just dragging our butts off that boat, totally wet from sweat, salt water, the total slimy feel you get from sweating everything out of every pore in your body, salt getting in your mouth, hair sticky, sun screen running down your face. Wow. Now drinking so much more water and electrolyte stuff that most of us can barely make it through our team meetings without visiting the restroom.... All the east coast paddlers look at us and comment on how red our faces are - they've had some more experience with this, I guess. Felt good to see a lot of red Canadian faces as they got off their boats, too.

Tuesday

2011-08-02T08:53:00.000-07:00

The boat is definitely coming together mentally and physically. The 2000m race is tomorrow and should give us the fine tuning we need. Our steer had a dream last night that she was on top of a post and a buffalo was trying to get her. Sooze informed us that in native American totem buffalo is raw pure power. Chills all around.
We are learning some great drills. Feels like camp where you spend time with friends from last summer as well as friends from home and are getting ready for the camp wide competition. Paddling here also gives you time to think about how much we get from paddling in terms of being fully present, committed, in the moment and part of something much bigger than ones self.
Loving the expectant feeling. We are going to nail this.

Familiar Sites

2011-08-01T18:59:00.001-07:00

For those of you who were here at Nationals in 2005 ... here's a couple sites you may remember. Jackson's restaurant and those brilliant sunsets! :)

Monday

2011-08-01T18:05:00.000-07:00

Senior A hit the water at ten this morning. Lummie led us in a warmup first and I think the counting we did in the warmup helped with the San Diego style counting in the boat. We also did a great dry land hit drill before we hit the water and we seemed to blend together better today. We had hoped to get a second practice in but the only slots available were when the sun was way to hot. So, we watched video, lsughed a lot (amazing how quickly things get out of hand) and enjoyed watching our inflatable pet Tuffy the Turtle in the pool and Laurie charm a significant portion of the pool population.
Tomorrow we continue to work on blending and have opening ceremonies in the evening. Rumor is there are some ten an races we may get to do. Thanks Wasabi for buying a ten man for us to practice in.

Sunday - Completed 1st practice day

2011-07-31T19:31:00.001-07:00

SUNDAY, 31-July-2011: Tampa, Florida
Sunday was a day of practice and bonding with teammates. We started the day by meeting in the lobby and scaring some of the other teams with our strength and poise (or was that pose) ? Hmmm? Anyway, you read Michelle & Vassar's accounts of the festival racers cheering us as we walked through the crowd. It was truly an uplifting and yet humbling experience. I even signed a couple auto-graphs. That felt ... odd!

Thunder and lighting came through so we waited patiently for practice and finally got out on the water. Tonight Senior A women did a team dinner. We sat in groups of 10 and worked on getting to know each other. Tonight I sat with Wendy from Wisconsin, Lynn from Pittsburgh, Jackie and Annette from San Diego and then Vassar, Christine (Bridge City) and Barb Wells. Very good day! :)

Oh, and last night there was a wedding in the hotel. Today we stole the groom ... just for a minute though ... for this picture! :)

From Tampa Florida...

Laurie

Master's women

2011-07-31T14:54:00.000-07:00

Truly an amazing day - we are walking to the race site together, wearing our matching practice jerseys, and along the way we go through a part of the waterway where they have been having a dragon boat festival all weekend with rec teams competing. All of a sudden, we hear people shouting "Team USA". "You go!" and lots of stuff like that and then it swells into a chant of "U-S-A. U-S-A" that follows us all the way to the race site and ends with people wildly clapping and whooping. It was INCREDIBLE! We are smiling at first, then sort of looking at each other in disbelief, then we all walk a little slower and tougher, like, yeah we're here to BRING IT. When it's over, we are just speechless - just amazed at the pounding support, being the recipient of that crowd PRIDE. Never felt anything like it. Will never forget it.

We will not let them down.

worlds in tampa vs outside usa

2011-07-31T11:56:00.000-07:00

walking thru the village of festival racers in out team usa practice jerseys, the racers started clapping and chatting usa. brought chills. something extra special about representing the us on home turf...

Saturday night

2011-07-30T18:30:00.000-07:00

Most of women senior a is now here. We enjoyed cooling off in the pool and meeting some people doing recreational racing before dinner. The team meeting brought familiar faces, introductions and some great visualizations. Looking forward to great things. First practice and video review tomorrow.

10th IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Championships -- Tampa Bay USA

2011-07-29T10:35:00.000-07:00

The 10th World Dragon Boat Racing Championship will be held in Tampa Bay, Florida, USA on 1-7 August 2011 with racing commencing on the 3rd.
I'm packed ... the uniforms are packed in my carry-on and the flight leaves tonight. One of the more interesting pieces of this year's uniform kit is the skort ... I thought it rather ridiculous at first but it's growing on me. The polo (for dinner's out and other official things) is nice. The tank top has caused quite a surge in retail sales around the Portland area for something to make it less revealing! Ahhh, the fun we have! Anyway, just thought I'd test out the blog site to make sure everything is working. Talk to you all from Tampa!!! Laurie Hansen...

Tampa 2011

2011-07-28T20:17:00.000-07:00

Adding the final items to the bag before heading to the airport and finding out how accurate all our visualizations have been.
And testing to see if I can post...

Racing Day 2 - From Satina

2010-09-04T13:59:00.000-07:00

Satina wrote an email to Wasabi Paddling Club. I thought it should be included in the blog as it captured so many great memories....

So, come to find out I was supposed to helm the men's races after all. A certain someone from a certain coast opposite from ours who shall remain nameless played around with the masters crews rosters and had tried to remove me as the men's helm. After his helm(s) put the masters men through the extended race course yesterday Les Hopper felt I would be a better choice today and I steered the men's semi and final 500m races. Bronze! Straight and true all the way down the pike.

The Masters crew had two 500m races today also. Our final was a zen race. We took benches on every stroke. .083 seconds between first and third places. We beat out Canada and stayed right there with Germany and Hungary. Hungary is killing it here. Mind you this is their course we are racing on, the same course that is used for the European kayak and canoe championships constantly, and we are racing against most of their retired olympians, so hanging right there with them in a race is pretty freakin' cool.

The women's crew is locked in and giving the Hungary women and run to remember. They had champagne waiting for us after the final and then gave us gifts on the podium during the medal ceremony. Each one of their members gave one of our members a key chain that had the name of that Hungarian paddlers home town inscribed on it. The medal ceremony was of-course wrapped up with the line up to say congrats and shake hands/high five each other that somehow turned into giving each other hugs and then an arch that both teams took turns dancing through to Shania Twains 'Feel like a woman" playing in the background. Pretty cool I must say. My cheeks hurt from smiling and laughing with these women.

So the medal count so far:
Master Women Silver 500m
Master Men Bronze 500m
Master Mix Bronze 500m

Please keep in mind that the master crews are made up of primarily west coast paddlers with a few folks from Texas and Florida thrown in. A really great group of people really doing good with making the U.S. look good on and off the water. The Iranians made a point of
attending our medal ceremonies and quite possibly were louder than the rest of the U.S. contingency. Of-course we then attended theirs and cheered for them. Both their men's and women's crews have had a great showing so far.

That's all for now. It's late and I have to catch a 7am bus to helm the 200m finals for the mixed, women, and men tomorrow. I will only get to steer the 2000m for the mixed and men tomorrow. I will not be on the womens boat at all since they are running the women's and mens 2000m simultaneously. Freaking genius right? The 2000m race will be very interesting since the only rule is "Don't hit another boat." That's it...no guidelines to passing, overtaking, space between boats, etc. Should be an interesting race.

Miss you all -

SaTina

Life Is Too Short,
Break The Rules, Forgive Quickly,
Kiss Slowly, Love Truly,
Laugh Uncontrollably,
And Never Regret Anything
That Made You Smile.
Life May Not Be The Party
We Hoped For, But While We' re Here, We Should Dance...

Bring it Home

2010-08-28T13:34:00.000-07:00

Laurie, Jen, SkinDog, Gavin, Mike B., Les H. and the rest of Team USA.......

You guys are great. We have enjoyed reading the blog and seeing the pictures. Most of all we all want you to know that we are all pulling for you back here. Many of us wish we could be there.

You make us proud!!!!

Remember that you must believe that you are the best paddler, for that bench, on the water that day.

Larry

Day 1 of races done

2010-08-27T13:30:00.000-07:00

Day one of races is over. Team USA has mad a great showing so far and the PDX paddlers have been bringing it like nobodies business. Of all the other countires here I would have to say that the Iranians are by far the friendliest. I am helming for the Masters Mixed and Womens crews and we have done great so far. The women are gaining ground on the Hungarian women each race. The mixed crew has taken a third in every race giving the Germans a fight for second and leaving Canada in the dust. The mens team has gone of course in two of their three races and had a tough day. (just for the record it wasn't me on the back) I am the only female helm in the mixed division so I am enjoying kicking some arse in a skirt. tee-hee. Tomorrow we race a 500m and two 200m races and we are hoping that it cools down a bit. 6-9 races a day in 96 degree heat is a bit much for all of us.
We are fortunate to have a free concert outside of our rooms every night we have been here. Right across the river, a river not half as wide as the Willamette mind you, is the Hungarian Youth Festival. Think Lollapolooza in 3-4 different languages and you get the drift. Not to worry though, it only goes until 2am. Do you smell sarcasm?
A group of us ventured out to find a non-hotel dinner tonight. The hotel food is part of our package, but you can only eat so much soup, then salty starchiness, then soggy dessert-like substance even if it is free.

Friday - Race Day #1

2010-08-27T12:53:00.001-07:00

Today was the first race day and, oh, what a race day it was. The competition is incredible. Countries like Germany, Russia and our host country, Hungary, have brought in the big guns. They've got Olympic kayakers, high knee paddlers, etc. on the teams and they are SOLID!

But maybe instead of 'oh', I should 'OW'. There was a whole lot of racing going on today and a whole lot of sore muscles tonight. I think many people were ready to fall asleep on their dinner plates. Our day started with a 5am wake up call, breakfast at 5:30am and off to the race site by 6:30am. Today was preliminary races for the 500m and 200m standard boats and 200m 10-man boats. Racing started with the 500m races. In the first round, I raced 3 back-to-back 500's on the Senior Mixed, Masters Mixed and Masters women. Then we got a little break and started round 2 of the 500m races where I raced 2 of those (Senior Mixed and Masters Women).

For the Master's division, instead of running Prelims, Repechage, and Finals, they are taking the combined time of 3 races for medals. Should be interesting. The 3rd race (and final) for this division is tomorrow (Sat.) afternoon.

Then it was on to the 200m races...

I raced my first race in a 10-man boat in the Senior Women's division. Our team age range went from 16-50 (or maybe older...not sure how old our steersperson is). Ashley Blundetto (18 years) and our own Jen PeArt were the lead strokers and Brittiney Blundetto (16 years old) was our caller. We had a mess of a first race but our second was solid putting us into the finals which will be on Sunday.

The first of the standard boat 200 meter races also were this afternoon. In the Masters division, race #2 will be on Saturday and on Sunday race 3. Again, this is accummulative.

As for the Senior division 200m standard boat. the Senior Mixed advanced to the finals, which are on Sunday. I'll have to go figure out the men's divisions and other or you can go check out the results on the official page. http://results.mkksz.hu/en/timetable/

I think 5 500's and 4 200's is a record amount of races for me in one day so with tired shoulders, back (Kurt where are you when I need you?) and bum I've off to bed. By Wasabi land...sweet dreams. Laurie

Opening Ceremonies ...WOW!

2010-08-26T14:33:00.000-07:00

Often I've found that opening ceremonies can be long and dull but no this one! Szeged outdid themselves. And what is being worn on the red carpet this year ... well, RED, of course. To the Chinese, Red is good luck and it seemed that 80% of the teams were sporting it tonight: USA, Germany, Switzerland, Hungary, Canada, Russia, etc, etc. etc.

The images of the night are wonderful...light-footed dancers of all ages, officials with short and sweet speeches, the sea of competitors in their uniforms, one of the best stage areas that will double as the medals stand, the race course in the background just beckoning tomorrow's thoughts. Running into old friends, making new friends, cheering teams, and Hungary's top Opera tenors singing his way down the race course in a candle-lit dragon boat and to the stage while nearly a full moon rose in back him. And then...the fireworks! WOW!!! Nicely done.

Kicking around Szeged

2010-08-26T14:06:00.001-07:00

As I mentioned in the previous blog entry, Szeged has a lot of statues. Some old, some new and inbetween the sleep, eat, practice, blah, blah, blah routine the team has either been going to the Turkish baths (I haven't been there yet) or kicking around the town. You can't help but notice the statues. Some inspired us!

That's Gavin striking a pose! :)

Practice and the Olympic Water Stadium

2010-08-26T13:48:00.000-07:00

The last few days have been a blur. With a cancelled flight and everyone dispersed to the wind (literally), we trickled into Hungary. Since then it's been sleep, eat, practice, eat, meetings ... sleep, eat, practice, meetings. For 2 days, we've practiced at Szeged's Olympic water sports stadium (See picture) It's wonderful with some great permanent buildings along the course. There is a grass-topped island border that runs the length of the course with entrances onto the course at variuos distances. So you approach the coarse on the one side of the island and then drop onto the course to line up for your race.

Team USA has 2 main categories here: Senior (no age restrictions) and Masters (over 40). Our practice times have corresponded mainly with the Iranian and Hungarian teams. There's been lots of picture taking and wonderful exchanges with both the men's and women's teams from Iran. We share a bus to the race site which was been fun. Practices have gone well and I have finally got to try out a 10-man boat. IT'S FUN!!! The Senior division has 200 meter 10-man boat races as well as the standard 20-man boats. As the rest of the distances (500 m. and 2000 m.) will be in the standard boats.

Szeged has a lot of statues. The main one at the race course has to be honoring "The Speedo"! I wish I has a copy of the picture we took with some of the Iranian men. It was fabulous.

Views of Szeged, Hungary

2010-08-26T13:38:00.001-07:00

2nd day

2010-08-25T05:25:00.000-07:00

Back in our rooms after out second Team USA pracitce here in Hungary.

We had our first practice yesterday approximately 20 minutes after arriving in the hotel. Please note that the race site is a 10 minute drive. We dropped our bags in our rooms, put on paddling gear and off we went. It felt good to be on the water after the trek from heck via Delta airlines. Did you know the DELTA stands for Didn't Ever Leave The Airport? 14 of us had a great flight on Sunday, oh wait no we didn't since it got cancelled. We then got scattered to the winds and had to make connecting flights with minimal time allotments to do so. Whatever, we made it in one piece and that's all that counts, right?

The entire Team USA contigency had a 3 hour water session this morning. It looks like a strong group all around. It's "interesting" to watch all of the different styles of paddling to say the least
I will be paddling in the 2000m on Sunday due to a paddler having to fly out early and the fact that there are only 20 masters women. Bummed only get to steer the Mixed 2000m but it will be fun to race in a bench again.

Write at ya again soon-
SaTina

Failure to Launch

2010-08-22T20:26:00.000-07:00

AT LAST! It's finally here! The day we leave for Hungary for the ICF World Championships!!!

Twelve of us gather at the airport. It's so cool, we're all on the same flight. We stop in at the Rogue Brewery on the C Concourse to enjoy the atmosphere and then off to our gate.

Oh, wait there's a mechanical problem so we'll be delayed an hour so back to The Rogue and now we've picked up an ER doctor who is also on our flight and knows Skinner. We're the fun crowd!!! So here we are, round 2 at The Rogue, catching up on a little email, etc. Then back to the gate. Oh wait, it's going to take a bit longer so the airlines hands out $6 food vouchers. My goal ... how many things can I get with the voucher! We disperse and shop. I've scored 2 Sweet & Salty Nut Rolls, 2 packages of Choc Chip Cookies AND a Rice Krispie bar. Whoo hoo!

So back to the gate, board the plane, sit for a while. Plane finally pulls out and then for about an hour we drive around the tarmack ... sightseeing? Luckily some didn't take their Ambien yet for then the announcement comes ... we're going back to the gate! Another mechanical!

So back at the gate, the mechanic shows up, he's checking ... he's checking ... he's checking. Hey we make some new friends on the flight. A lady 2 rows up thinks we're fun and comes back to visit. Well, maybe we're fun for some people and not others. The lady and guy in front of us were pretty up tight. So the women has a panic attack, jumps up and runs up the aisle in tears. The man scolds us for visiting near his seat. Luckily there's a social worker on board.

Oh wait, a new announcement ... the flight crew will now go over their allowed time so Delta cancels the flight.

So, 10 after leaving my house this morning our happy party of 12 has now dispersed and will depart out on several flights over the next day. So here is Skinner and I ... back in my living room. So much for the first day!

Is it a full moon?

Lasting Memories of Macau and first impressions of Phuket

2010-08-05T02:20:00.000-07:00

As I sit in my spa pool villa at the Banyan Tree Resort in Phuket Thailand I feel the need to comemorate the most vivid memories of Macau and the racing and somehow contrast them with my after race expedition to the Island of Phuket. (OK, I can hear some of you now saying...my God this poor guy is bored stiff.........Well perish the thought.)

Macau was:

Clean
The people were engaging. Especially our little rebel helper, Dawn.
Alex in the hotel restaurant was exceedingly helpful. His English was good but because he was from the Phillipines originally, we had better success speaking Spanish.
The Casino architecture was amazing.
There were no billboards.
The teak dock built to accomocate 20 boats was superb. Because of the dock and the number of boats the entire race weekend ran on-time. Imgaine a dragon boat festival race running on-time. The secret is adequate dock space and boats to make the crew turns necessary to stay on-time.
The heavy humid hot air made it so hard to breathe during races. Was I the only one that noticed this?
Competition at the highest level. I honestly think I have not seen faster crews ever. Wasabi, to our credit, was in the thick of it.

Phuket:

The Thai people at the Banyan Tree are so well trained in their jobs. It is amazing.
This area where the resorts sit was once a moon cratered tin mine that the UN environmental group said was undevelopable - it was so contaminated. The Singapore money group behind this area came in anyway, removed all of the contaminated earth and relpaced it and shaped it to fit the plan. We are talking several square kilometers. The result is that one group is now providing jobs to the local residents who had seen there industry, tin mining, disappear and leave them with uninhabitable surroundings.
I can say I have swam in the Adaman Sea.
It is hot and humid like Macau but I have my own private pool. OK, I do have to share it with my wife.
The food is exquisite. They have tiger prawns the size of small lobsters.
Oh, and the best part in the compare and contrast department. In Penang two years ago we found Tiger beer to be so refreshing. There was no Tiger beer in Macau. We had to settle for Macau beer. Well, in Phuket they have Tiger Beer - frosty cold - and served in a chilled Weizen glass.

I was going to upload some pictures but our wi fi here in PhuKet is capacity contrained and therefore very slow.

Racing has concluded

2010-08-01T04:03:00.000-07:00

The racing has concluded and now many of us head off in various directions for a well earned vacation. Some will depart for mainland China and some for other parts of Southeast Asia.

A summarization of the racing experience would go something like this;

Great venue

Super job of organizing by the Macau Organizers

Wasabi represented the U.S. well earning a bronze medal in the Senior B Womens 2000m.

The big winners were the German and Australian crews in our racing categories.

The strongest teams in the premier categories were the Singapore military team, The Pacific Dragons (Australia) and the Chinese teams.

If I compare the racing in Macau this year to Penang 2 years ago I would say that the competition was higher in Macau. In Penang the Canadian teams dominated the event but in Macau the same Canadian teams, although very competitive, were not dominate.

Wasabi earned the right to compete with the highest level of competition in the world. What we learned is that the level of competition is getting higher everytime there is a World Championship and that we, Wasabi, can compete at that level. (There was never a race that we were blown out of except perhaps the GMMixed 2000 meter. The majority of the races we were in the thick of it.) That being said, we will have to continue to elevate our game and continuously think outside the box for new and creative ways to do so.

That is my opinion based on my observations and the workings of a sun-baked nearly heat-stroked mind.

For Laura and I we are off to Thailand. More from PhuKet when we arrive there.

SOLD

2010-07-31T03:43:00.000-07:00

Apparently what was thought to be a nice gesture was a little more than that. Jeannette handed me a philippines wrist band only to be told this morning that she had sold me. So now I'm a kept women by someone on the Philippine team..
200 m races today. We made it to the grand final but could not bring home the bling. But we were right in there. Took 2 seconds off our semi heat race. Weather is HOT.... I don't think I have anything dry in my bag.
So a short recap... Wearing a racer back jersey... Hmm who new you needed to put sun screen on. Sold to the Philippine team for a wrist band. (Too cheap if you ask me). Raced 2000 M and 200 M. Now on to the 500 m tomorrow. Just another day in China.

Saturday

2010-07-31T02:54:00.000-07:00

Saturday is now winding down. Masters Women started out the day with the 200m races. The heats felt like they were back to back to back and they were. We started around 830 am and were done by 1030. Supporters from the shore gave us great insight on how things looked and tweaks were made after the first race. The semifinal was a zen race where we came in second and advanced to the Grand Final. We didn't medal in the final but it was a great race and we hope to bring it altogether in the 500m tomorrow.
Grandmasters Mixed took over for Wasabi in the afternoon racing their final distance, the 500m. Didn't see all of their races but they did great in the minor finals. No medal this time but a great effort.
Among the lessons learned or relearned in Macau.
Get the front water.
Get the body moving.
Enjoy the process.
Don't take a bracelet from Jeanette.
(At breakfast this morning someone was commenting on the livestrong type bracelet that said Philippines that Skinner was wearing. Skinner commented that Jeanette had given it to her. Jeanette then informed us that what Skinner didn't know is that Jeannette had sold her. Skinner is trying to determine who exactly purchased her. We still plan to try to bring Skinner back. )

Friday is coming to a close

2010-07-30T05:01:00.000-07:00

The 200 meter races are over for the GM crews. They continue tomorrow morning for the masters women and finish at around noon. The masters women having had the day off today.
Tomorrow afternoon the 500 meter races start with the GM Mixed crew racing at 1:30pm...... Oh Boy!! the heat of the day in the tropics.

Macau is a very clean city given how crowded it is. The only thing that looks trashy is the older buildings and what the heat and humidity can do as far as discoloration and rust goes. Not to mention the ever present mold. However, it is actually cleaner, to my eye, than downtown Portland.

This may be because they have cleaning crews everywhere and it may also be because there are no homeless residents. (If there are I haven't seen them or perhaps I do not know what to look for.) Regardless, there aren't any people living and sleeping on the streets that I can tell. There are no beggers either.........however......near the casinos there are hookers aplenty.

The other thing that there is plenty of, at least near the casinos, are high end jewelry stores and high end watch stores. In these stores there are no bargains but in Macau as a whole it is relatively cheap to dine and shop as long as you stay away from the big name stuff. For example, our hotel which is not a casino, has a restaurant that we are told is one of the best Portugese resturants in Macau. Gary, Laurie, Laura and I had a full 6 course meal for under $100 US and the food was excellent.

More later...........time for bed.

Roomates??? You got to love them

2010-07-30T02:22:00.000-07:00

Ok, so traveling with friends can always be an adventure. Take your roomate who gets up to use the bathroom at 3 am and learns that if the key is not all the way in the electric card key switch, and you push it in all the lights in the room will light up. Ahh you have to love jet lag....
Yesterday was he 2000 m races and the Gm Women took bronze. We on the other hand had a bunch of Aussies and Canadians who had other plans for us. It didn't help that it was 150 degrees, plus the nerves set in. I think I was out of breath by the first 200 meters, forgot to spit out my gum until 1400 meters. Never so glad to hear Connie call the last power.
Off today but back on for 200 m races tomorrow.

Update from SaTina

2010-07-29T09:30:00.000-07:00

SaTina is having some issues posting to the blog so I'm posting her latest update for her here:

4:49 pm Thursday Macau time

2000m race results

Wasabi GMX 8th place

Wasabi Master Women 6th place

Wasabi GM Women 3rd place. - and they looked amazing - I couldn't be any prouder of them.

Most of the GMX women also raced a 2000 on one of the women's crews. A grueling way to spend the day in this heat. Today was the first day since we have arrived that we have experienced full force sun without the blessing of overcast clouds and rain.

Wasabi participated in the opening ceremonies. Each country took out a boat holding their flag on an 8 ft. pole. We then did a little parade of nations for the peoples in the stands. You will be proud to know that Wasabi was the only USA team on our boat (of the 3 USA teams in Macau) and that we sang the national anthem not once, but twice while on the course.

Tomorrow the GM's mixed and women race the 200m races. The masters women have the day off.

GM Women win Bronze in the 2000M!

2010-07-29T06:42:00.000-07:00

2000 meter race day is drawing to a close

2010-07-29T01:03:00.000-07:00

Thanks Rachel for providing all of the information for everyone to keep informed. The IDBF Club Crew Championships has really embraced the new technologies;

Real time race results
A gigantic big screen TV that you can see in direct sunlight
A paddler database (ugh!!!! but I guess it is a necessary evil) (Team Managers hate it).
The credentials have a barcode that ties back to you, your picture, date of birth, gender, passport number, and whether you are a coach, helm, paddler etc. All fed by the ...... yes. The database.

The crew rosters for the different distances are done ......... on the database.......and then we have to turn in a copy that is a print from the database or (if you didn't bring a printer or if the Hotels business center is useless) you do it by hand.

All of that being said. The race site is really top notch. It is the best dock arrangement I have ever seen at a race. They can handle 16 boats at one time which makes marshalling and rurn around times a breeze.

The Macau folks organzing the race have gone above and beyond. They have more than enough staff to take care of everything necessary. Our personal staff person, Dawn, calls me every evening to make sure we know the race times for the next day and to see if we need to be escorted to the race site.

There are, however, the typical glitches as with anything this size. The opening ceremony, for example seems to have been hastily planned to be squeezed in between the final 2000 meter races. I can hear the announcer from my hotel room as I write this, so I know the opening ceremony is under way. (I am in the hotel room and not at the opening ceremony because I need to do tomorrow'a rosters in the database.)

The great news is that with such a well sized facililty the program is running on-time. Such a rarity in events this size.

The last comment for today, sorry no pictures, is about the weather. We had monsoonal rains that started yesterday afternoon about 4 pm and lasted for about 5 or 6 hours. A few more heavy downbursts came through during the night. Today however, the skies have not threatened once although there are large clouds passing in the distance.

The temperature is hot and the humidity is staggering. It is hard to breathe during a 2000 meter race in that kind of heavy air when you are not used to it.

More to come - follow the real time race results at IDBFworldchamps.com and click on live race results. It is the best way to stay informed.

Larry

Follow results from Macau in real time!

2010-07-28T21:41:00.001-07:00

For all of you who are sitting in Portland, like me, wondering how Wasabi teams are doing in Macau, you can follow the results in realtime!

Just go to this site and click on the "live results" link.

Best of luck to all the Wasabi paddlers in Macau this week!

2000 meters gm mixed then senior women then gm women....

2010-07-28T17:52:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow the races begin

2010-07-28T04:45:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is 2,000 meter day. The first one goes off at 10:00 am local time and is the Gm Mixed in an 8 boat race. 4 Australian crews, 2 Canadian, 1 German and 1 US. The Masters Women race at 12:15 pm followed by the GM Women at 1:45 pm. We then take part in the opening ceremonies with the parade of athletes and the dotting of the eye ceremony which starts at 3:45 pm.

To add to the adventures from yesterday (menitoned in Laurie's post below)

here are a couple of additional pictures.

The one directly above is of Laura and Laurie leaning through the windows of the central atrium of the Mandarin House and the above it is showing just how narrow most all of the streets are in Macau. This street is empty which is not normally the case. On most streets delivery trucks, taxi's and cars (Mercedes and the like) will come flying down the narrow streets. Pedestrians and motorbikes, gillions of them, must beware.

It's Started!

2010-07-28T01:25:00.000-07:00

Yes, it has started! Practices started and so have the rains. It seems that it is a rule:

Get on the boat ...check

Sky opens up and pours ...check

Get off the boat ...check

Rain stops ...check!

However, with that said, the rain here has been very welcome. With the heat in the 30's (that's Celsius, my friends) and the humity in the 60's (probably 70's now), the rain is a refreshing respite from the heat. You're either soaked from sweating or soaked from the rain. I chose rain.

GM Mixed was the first to practice on Tuesday and both Women's teams practiced today. It's wonderful to see Connie standing up at the front of the boat yelling sweet remembraces in our ears. It's often intimidating to other teams to see her standing there so calmly. LOVE THAT!

Practices went well and we left the race site with confidence. The racing starts tomorrow with the 2000 meter races! YIPPEE! Let the games begin!!!

Oh, and there was ALMOST no fighting on the boat!

Walking Past History

2010-07-27T05:40:00.000-07:00

Macau is rich in history and with it's narrow streets and alleyways and plaza's with beautiful mosaic tiles, it seems that walking is the best way to see it. (Ok, so we don't have a car.) Macau seems to have a bit of everything. European and Chinese architecture alongside Christian and Buddhist places of worship.

A-Ma' Temple existed before the city of Macau did. It seems to combine a bit of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. You can purchase incense such as these spiral burning one and hang them and your prayer at the temple. Built amongst some incredible rocks on a hillside, it is quite an inspiring and peaceful place. Cut into the rocks are Chinese symbols and prayers.

Then it was on to the Moorish Barracks which were built in 1874 to house an Indian regiment to reinforce the Macau police force, stopping to enjoy the view and one of Macau famous egg tarts.

Then past Lilau Square which used to be the main source of natural spring water in Macau and on to Mandarin House which is a traditional Chinese residential compound built in the mid-1800's. It had many open air courtyards and Larry, Laura, Gary and I found it facinating and beautiful.

And what else would you do in an old Chinese courtyard, but have an arm wrestling match!

It was then on to St. Lawrence's Church which was built by the Jesuit's in the mid-16th century, the Dom Pedro V Theatre which was the first western-style theatre built in China and on to Senado Square which has been Macau's urban center for centuries. The square is surrounded by pastel-colored European-style buildings.

Following the walking street up the hill from the Square, you run into Macau's most famous landmark ... the Ruins of St. Paul's ... a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The front facade is all that is left of the cathedral that was built in the early 1600's by the Jesuits and Japanese Christians who came to Macau to escape oppression in their own country.

Alas, the feet gave out and it was back to the hotel for some air conditioning, cool beverage, and dinner.

After all, tomorrow is another day. Hmmmm, where to next? Maybe one of the other islands?

Greetings from wonderfully charming and friendly Macau.

Ooh, and did I mention the bakeries? OMG! They are heavenly!!!!

Cheers, Laurie

Tuesday and everything is taking shape

2010-07-27T04:56:00.000-07:00

Today opened with meeting our guide and personal race concierge named Dawn. She is Chinese and Dawn is the English name she has taken. She is a lovely young lady and so very willing to help. We followed Dawn to the race course which takes us down a narrow switchback road and then across a busy street. If is very close and very convenient to the hotel.

It was practice day for the GM Mixed crew. The weather was hot and humid to start the practice. After about 20 minutes the hardest rainstorm I have seen in a long time came through with rain that fell so hard is was actually beating the drum. Towards the end of practice lightening and thunder rolled in to puncuate the downburst. I have to admit that the rain was very refreshing as it took an edge off the heat.

The picture above right is of the narrow road leading to the race course and the picture above left is of the race course itself taken from the old church on top of Penha hill. The old church sits just above our hotel.

The picture to the right is of the Grand Lisboa hotel and Casino. It is one of the more unique buildings you will ever see and is an imposing landmark on the Macau skyline.

The photo below is the bridge (one of the bridges actually) between the Macau pennisula and the isalnd of Taipa which is also part of Macau.

Tomorrow is an early morning practice for the Womens teams. There is also a coaches/captains/managers meeting tomorrow morning to go over all the little items we need to know.

More news and information to come.

Larry

Dragon Boat Carnival Race Site

2010-07-25T07:20:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we stumbled across the Dragon Boat races that are going on this weekend in Victoria Harbor. Here's a picture of the race site from up on top of Victoria Peak.

I believe the 2012 World Club Crew Champion- ship race is in Hong Kong. I wonder if this will be the race site? They park a bunch of barges down the right side of the race course to stabilize the water.

The walkway out in font of the building in the lower right is the Avenue of the Stars where yesterday we were trying out our Bruce Lee moves.

Where's Laurie?

2010-07-25T06:52:00.000-07:00

Another lovely day!

Started with an excellent massage ... 2 hours of pain and bliss!!!

Then DIM SUM. OMG! Had the most incredible steamed egg yolk custard cream bun. I'm going to dream about that tonight. YUMMY!!!

Then off to Hong Kong Island on the Star Ferry and up to the top for this shot and others.

Back to the hotel for a swim in the pool to cool down. GAVIN, WE OWE YOU!
THIS HOTEL IS INCREDIBLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Amazing Seafood buffet tonight!

Hmmmmmm?

2010-07-25T06:32:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't it suck to be out drinking,

maybe have a bit too much,

and have to find your way home?

OMG!!!!

July 24th Travel Day

2010-07-24T22:33:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

Today started out pretty well. Bright sunny skies, warm temperatures and the excitement of getting ready for the BIG trip.

There were two large groups leaving today. One group was to leave around 2 pm via Delta Airlines to Narita and then on to Hong Kong arriving at 10:30 pm the next day. The other group, a smaller one, was leaving at 6:30pm on Air Canada to Vancouver and then direct into Hong Kong arriving at 6:30 am the next day.

As fate would have it the Delta flight was canceled. By my count and that of Sue Fischer's 15 out of 16 from the first group were re-routed on the Vancouver bound flight at 6:30.

So picture a DeHaviland DH8 loaded with two groups of Wasabians, all very grateful that the cancellation of the first group resulted in no worse of a delay than four hours. There were 4 non-Wasasbians on the plan that I am sure were wondering what they had gotten into by taking that flight. We all arrived safely in Vancouver and now we get to hurry up and wait.

It is 10:45 pm and we are all sitting at gate D51 in the Vancouver airport waiting for the Sidney flight to leave so we have room to breath. We then get to wait another two hours until our flight leaves at 2:00am.

That's all for now. Time to find a place to try and take a nap.

Larry

Good luck in Macau!

2010-07-24T19:40:00.001-07:00

To all the racers, steerspeople, callers and coaches headed to Macau:

Have a great time!!! I know you will all be wonderful ambassadors of Wasabi and the USA! Wasabi is proud to support three crews racing at the 2010 Club Crew World Championships in Macau, China. We are sending you all our best and look forward to the wonderful stories you'll have to share!

Paddles up...finish to win!!

Tracey Miller
Wasabi President

HONG KONG -- Skyscraper City!

2010-07-24T17:07:00.000-07:00

24-July-2010: Here we are! The first to hit Asian soil. Ran into a few teammates at the YVR airport. Then didn't see Bon, Connie C & crew until the airport at HKG. Whew! Long flight and we are very happy to be here.

We split up and headed into Tsim Sha Tsui. It was 6am and a beautiful day. After dropping luggage at the beautiful Langham hotel, my husband, Gary, and I headed out to introduce ourselves to Kowloon and get a look at Hong Kong.

In the morning we did a walkabout. First down to the promenade to look at Hong Kong Island & Victoria peak. Then a walk along the Avenue of Stars which is dedicated to the stars of Hong Kong's movie industry. Names, handprints and signatures of the stars like Bruce Lee, Jet Li, Chow Yun Fat, Jackie Chan and Michelle Cheung lined the walk. Of course, we had to match up a few handprints or strike a pose! :)

Then, what did we fun into but the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival being held in Hong Kong hardor. After watching the False Creek men swamp their boat during their race, we ran into some friend from San Francisco's Dragon Warriors! SMALL WORLD!!!! Dragon Warriors also had a tough time keeping water out of their boats. Slightly rough water over what looked like a 1000 meter course (probably was shorter), we saw at least one boat in each race swamp.

In the afternnoon we explored some areas where Gary used to live and in the evening caught the Hong Kong light show (they light up the buildings and have it set to music).

WELCOME TO HONG KONG!!!!!

Macau 2010

2010-07-19T12:59:00.000-07:00

Lists are being made, last minute purchase bought, bags are being packed, dog and house sitting arrangements have been made.

The final count down until Macau. Some leave earlier than others. The exodus begins Thursday on through Sunday the 25th.

12 Noon Portland time is 3:00am Macau time (the next day).

Stay tuned to this blog site for the latest updates, race results, sites seen, delicious cuisine consumed and pictures.

Larry

2010 World Club Crew Championship in Macau, CN

2010-07-19T12:25:00.000-07:00

All my bags are packed (almost),
I'm ready to go (almost).
I'm sitting here
My mind on ...whoa
Where is all this stuff
going to fit?

I'm leaving on a jet plane
I'm off to China once again!

YAHOO!!! GO WASABI!!!

This is a test, this is only a test. Yeah, I'm back on the blogger site!

A series of updates from Jim Hinsvark

2009-08-31T14:14:00.000-07:00

Digging through my email spam box today, I found a host of email updates from Jim Hinsvark sent from Prague. I'm posting them in chronological order from the earliest to the latest.

Update #1
Today we race the 2000m. Woke up early with thoughts of racing running through my head. It seemed as though the entire team woke up early and was down eating breakfast in anticipation of the days events. Today we find out where we sit in regards to the other teams that have come to race. Hopefully the race goes well and we place in good stead.

Yesterday Janet and I walked the old town area and up to Prague Castle. This city is amazing in so many ways, the culture, the archetecture and the people that live and visit here. We walked for hours and were constantly amazed at tne varying types of stuctures in the city. When we alked throught the old town square the local vendors were out in force. The smells of the smoked ham, sausage sweets and potato dishes was WOW. We ate ham, potato pancakes and corn for dinner as we watched the sun light fade over the city.

The hike across Chalres Bridge and up the streets to the castle was very cool. I had to explain to Janet the almost overpowering erge for men to spit off bridges. I told her that I had surpressed the erge so she waited a moment and dared me to spit. A dare! I readied myself and as I leaned over the rrail I saw, just in time, the paddle boat below. What a stinker!

We ran into some teammates and so I walked up behind Skinner and gently grabbed her behind. The look o her face as she realized everone in her group was ahead of her was great! She spun around, red faced ( after enjoying the moment of course) and saw me. Gret fun!

Gotta go and get ready fo the races.

Update #2
Hi there, trying to catch up and fill you all in to what is happening here. Wed. we raced the 2000m. Thought we had a pretty good starting postion ,3rd, and took off ready for the race. First turn we caught the wake of the lead boats and took on water. Came out of the curve into hugh waves and took on more water. The waves were enough to our callers ass wet! By the time we came into the second turn we were half full and then the turn began. Sloshing water is not a good thing to have in a curve! Side to side we rocked and filled, sinking as we finished the turn. We drug the boat to shore and called it a day!

Next was the 1000m Thurs, and we did fairly well, but had to come up through the loser bracket, we were .013 out of the final. We placed third in the next theat and were off to the minor final, again by hundreths of a second. 6th overall was where we finished. The day ended with an amazing lightneing storm alll around. We sat in the bus instead of watching the final races.

Today, more of the same. Finishing out of moving into the finals by hundreths of a second in the 200m

Day off tomorrow, so Janet and I will spend the day checking ou t the city. It will be a nice break as we can get some good sight seeing in and the paddlers can get ours minds around how to pick up those hundreths!!

Update #3
Hi there, It has been a few days so here goes.

We had Sat off from racing so Janet and I took off on foot to explore the city a bit more. We planned a route that looked like it would take all day and headed out to see the city. Meghan would be proud of my figuring out the transit system as that was always her task in Thailand. We jumped on the subway and took off walking. The route led us through some less touristy areas and into the large park area on the west side of the river. There was an orchard in one area that had pears (ripe) and what we think were almonds and apples and it was like anyone could pick what they wanted as there were no signs to hint otherwise. The walk was much shorter thatn we thought and we were back at the castle in a couple of hours.

There was an orchestra of some sort playing that we could hear from quite a distance. I think it was some sat. concert in the castle. Hungry we headed to the Old Town Square and to the vendors that were roasting and smoking various meats and treats. Enjoying the huge kelbassa we had beer and margaritas (Janet is not to fond of beer).

Sun races

It was great. My birthday and I was racing for Gold! We worked our way through the heats and into the medal round. Sadly, I set my goals to low and we only raced for the gold. We finished .06 seconds out of 3rd. I have never been in so many races that were determined by so close a time. Our heatsfor advancement or medals were missed by no more than .13 secs . Crazy, fun racing.

We are coming home early and will see you soon.

Final results from Prague

2009-08-30T11:37:00.001-07:00

From Michelle Rudd:

Senior Women and GM Women took bronze in the 500m. Hard to believe Worlds are over. US did great but just wait till next time!

Day off for the women in Prague

2009-08-29T07:35:00.000-07:00

Report from Kathy Skinner:

Ahh.... we have today off and will be back on the water tomorrow for the 500 meter races. Our team has been getting stronger with each race we have had. Canada has won all the gold in our division but we close the gap in the 200 yesterday losing by less than a second. After all was done we went back to the hotel for a meeting. One of our teamates made a comment of how sore she was and it was decided it was due to all our stretching. We won our first race yesterday putting us directly into the finals, which was much later in the day. This allowed Lisa time to take some pictures of some rather hot men. The Slovakian men and the Austrialian men so far have the hottest bodies. Lisa jumped on a pole, holding her body out to look like a flag. It really impressed the Slovakian men who were late getting to marshalling because of her. On to the 500 tomorrow and hopes of knocking off Canada. Its time they heard our national anthem.

Short update

2009-08-28T19:50:00.000-07:00

From Michelle Rudd:

Short update: Great day for Wasabi Women in Prague today. GM Women took Bronze in 200m. Senior Women took Silver in the 200m. The teams are really clicking. Tomorrow all mixed racing for the 200m distance. Then Sunday we do the 500m races. I'm sure more colorful commentary will follow from others...

Cloudy Sky and Positive Thoughts in Prague

2009-08-28T06:45:00.000-07:00

Update from Michelle Rudd:

Up early today for a 7 am bus departure. For Senior Women A the hour ride to the site provided some time to both rest a bit more and visualize our race as a group. The weather is quite different from yesterday with a thick fog present. Our first race has us bracketed such that we are hopeful we’ll be able to proceed straight to the grand final. It’s a 1000 meter race straight shot. People are hungry after the disappointment of coming so close to a medal with a fourth place in the 2000. I can already see us peeling out the fog, ahead of the pack…
First race we REALLY wanted to win because it meant we bypassed the semi and could save up our strength. Alas it was not meant to be with Germany nudging us out at the end in a photo finish. Turns out that wasn’t so bad because the semi gave us another practice as a team. This time we found the glide and cruised to first. Off to the grand final….
Word is that even though we didn’t keep them, we had Canada at the start. Germany edged us again but we pulled it out for the bronze. Liking the weight around the neck. Looking to continue to improve tomorrow in the 200. Hopefully the shorter distance will be an advantage for us over Germany since they will have less room to make up distance on us and we can put some serious pressure on Canada. Make ‘em fight for it. Positive thoughts….

Update from Prague with 2000m Race results

2009-08-26T12:18:00.000-07:00

Michelle Rudd had this update today:

Hey Wasabi. It's late in Prague and we have an early day tomorrow but we wanted to check in.
2000 meters today. I think the following is correct:

Premier Open Gold
Premier Women Silver
Grandmaster Women Silver
Juniors Gold
Grandmaster Men, swamped, did not finish
Senior Open Silver
Senior Women Fourth

Strategy decision was made from above not to run any of our mixed teams today.

Coach Carol and the GM women did us in Power Surge particularly proud with their silver and I think Annie and Carolyn were interviewed by roving correspondent aka Coach Jeff.

Crazy wake on the water. Multiple boats got swamped. Unfortunately first was Grandmaster Men in the second turn, caught at least in part in Ukraine wake. Everyone's ok. They were close to the grandstand when it happened so it wasn't far to shore. When the Open men went later in the day, about half the boats ran with an empty seat to lighten the boat and that strategy certainly seemed to work for our men. Felt bad for the Iranian men who lost it in the last stretch, continuing (as our men had) to paddle in an attempt to get it done.

Kathy Skinner loves her racing tank top and next time will probably order the skort.

Prague update from Vassar Byrd & Kathy Skinner!

2009-08-26T12:16:00.000-07:00

OK -SOOOOOO we can't seem to get the wasabi blog page up in english and our Czech is rusty. This means we are currently blog challenged so we're sending this to YOU. Those of us who arrived late did our first practice with the Senior Women's team - the boat felt great and very strong. The race site is WAY out of town - beautiful countryside, bucolic farms, very lush. After many hours of flying and almost none sleeping, it felt GREAT to get in a boat and MOVE. The most difficult part of this trip so far for Skinner and me is that we underestimated the vicious and tenacious nature of true jet lag...went to bed last night so tired we could hardly move, only to find our brains pinging awake, and completely unable to get back to sleep. Listening to the sound of the HVAC...listening to the sound of Michelle SLEEPING.... listening to the sound of each other NOT sleeping....
After our practice, we wandered around town without a map, hungry, and very sleep deprived but we fixed most of those issues. Except the sleep deprived part. -Vassar

So now the rest of the story. Practice seemed to go fine, of course there was video taping that occured which we have yet to see. However, fear struck poor Vassar when Jeannette called her and asked her to hang around so she could talk to her. Of course Vassar was convinced that she was the only one who looked bad on the yet to be viewed video. I of course, took no mercy on her and insisted that if anything could go wrong I was sure it was her fault. Alas all was well, jeannette only wanted to see her to say thanks for all her help with the Portland paddler's financial stuff. Than off we went to find some garden that Michelle insisted was somewhere in Prague. We proceeded into town with no map. After each picture Lisa, Holly, Vassar or myself took, someone would ask what is that building? Of course we had no idea but figure we will try to match up the photos later. Thank God we have races tomorrow. I need a break from all this tourist stuff. Skinner

We Made It.

2009-08-24T13:38:00.000-07:00

Update from IDBF world championships in Prague from Jim Hinsvark:

We are settled in Prague after a good trip over the ocean. It was a very good (short feeling) trip intp Amsterdam where we had time to play.

We figured out hoe to get tickets for the metro and were off to the city for an exploration. We had 8 hours to sightsee and wanted to make the best of it.The first problem was that it was 8AM and there was hardly a soul in sight. After a walk around we found a small cafe and had a buffet breakfast. We drank coffee and juice as the city began to awake and start the work week. When there was a fair amount of folks out there we ventured out to see what we could see. Canals and flower shops and sex shops it ran the gamut.

Then we found a bike shop and rented 2 bikes, grabbed a map and were off to see the city. Amsterdam is laid out for walkers and bikers. The cars know that there is always another biker coming so they keep an eyeout. The only unsafe part was the bikes are old style and you need to back break. After a few bumps Janet finally stopped bumping me. Bike are a great way to see the city. So many sights and so little time :-). We returned the bikes and headed back to the airport to rest up and then off to Prague.

Arriving a bout 10PM we were ready for the hotel. Problem.... the other plane was late so we had to wait for them. The driver let us in the car and turned on some music. Techno and rap for 45 mins. Not my favorite music, but I was better off than Janet, she picked up a stomach bug along the way and was in no mood or condition to sit around anywhere to long. When we finnally left the airport the driver , who felt bad drove fast to make up lost time. Not good when one has to hold onto not only thier seat, but "other "things as well. We arrrived at the other hotel first so Janet ran in and the driver, who had been informed that Janet needed a toilet, and I chatted for a bit. We arrived at the hotel late and I , shall I say, slept better than Janet.

Breakfast was buffet and large. Off to the metro and down to old town for a walk. It is easy to see why people were telling us to just walk. The stuctures here are old, ornate, amazingly well crafted and great fun to look at and try to pick up all the detailing the old craftspeople did. Lunch in a park by the river, across form the Nat. Theatre, was quite pleasant. Back to the hotel and I was off to practice. Janet slept most of the afternoon to try to recouperate. She did that that well and was ready for dinner when we got back.

The venue was built for an Olympics a while ago, no one could remember which one, so it is very nice. Good practice. The last member of the team joins us tomorrow and we go do it again.

Love you all.

Jim

Angelica goes to Prague to paddle for Team USA

2009-08-22T11:10:00.000-07:00

From Kraken coach Randy Stokes:

As we all prepare for the PDBA Club Crew regional championships this weekend, I wanted to send a quick note to everyone reminding them that we have a Kraken team member, Angelica Liharik, that is traveling to Prague to compete as part of Team USA in the IDBF World Championships that will be held next week.

Angelica was part of the incredible national team that swept all three (mixed, open, & women) Junior A berths last year in Long Beach.

I am very excited to see one of our own team members participating in the event and hope others can experience this level of competetion in the near future.

I know Angelica will represent Kraken and Wasabi very well as she travels abroad. Please join me in whishing Angelica and Team USA all the best as they go up against the top junior teams in the world.

Go USA and Go Angelica!!!

2009-08-21T07:14:00.001-07:00

Finally done with work and can focus on the task at hand. First off, Seattle.

Announcing the Premier womens crew for PDBA qualifier‏

2009-07-31T17:40:00.000-07:00

Wasabi premier women's coach Carol Hoekstra announced the Premier women's crew for the PDBA qualifier today. Below is a re-post of Carol's message to the club.

Club, please join me in welcoming the following women who are being offered a seat on Wasabi's open/premier womens crew. These women represent members of 4 standing Wasabi crews and trialed amidst nearly 80 women for a seat on one of the women's crews for this event! (Announcements for the masters and grandmasters crews should be following soon from Connie).

Members of the crew, please watch for practice plans to be announced soon.

PDBA

Alyda Rodriguez

Amy Reese

Becky Hall

Christine Pezzulo

Franchesca Harper

Holly Ansari

Janet DeAustria

Jen PeArt

Jesse Draskovich

Jessica Lowman

Jodi Burroughs

Julie Borsetti

Karen Mayhew

Kat Gilbert

Kellen Todd-Quinn

Kristen Peterson

Lexi Olson

Lisa Hillhouse

Lisa Lum

Lisa Stewart

Nancy Butler

Piper Gallucci

Stephanie Sherwood

Tracey Miller

Steering: Joyce Chua

Calling: Suzi Cloutier/Carol Hoekstra

Nice work, ladies!

A Month in Taiwan, Last Week ...

2009-07-28T17:44:00.000-07:00

Kim Ketcham, our team manager, sent out her notes from the trip and I just had to share them. I think it was Jim Hinsvark who had one of the best quotes at the end of the first week ... he said, "It's been a long month this week." It really did feel like a month. We packed so much in during the 7-10 days that we were there and so many things happened so us -- natural (earthquake, typhoon, solar eclipse) and unnatural (well, we won't go into those).

Here's Kim's notes...

Every one of the team added to the fabric of this trip. What crazy memories!! What an unforgettable time in Taiwan!! Never to be duplicated. Every time I do a trip like this, I feel as if my horizons have been broadened – that I understand the world better. There are so many common bonds with people from other countries; it’s great to see everyone laugh at the same things & cheer together. Dragon boat and other sports are good for the world!

I hope you are proud of your accomplishments on the water. Most of the team is either of Senior or Grand Master age (how many need reading glasses???). I believe the reason we did as well as we did is because you are in great shape and you are experienced dragon boat racers. Mike did a great job of coaching you into one team, and you gave it 110%. We had very little time to put this team together and together we were amazing. We had the heart and desire to do our very best. Your best is all you can ever give. Congrats on representing the US honorably. Hope your jet lag isn’t as bad as mine. Cheers,Kim

A Month in Taiwan Last Week (Kim’s view)

Friday, July 10

Evening departure from PDX to SFO (Rachel & Kim on a laugher)
Picked up a Thai lady along the way (she loved us)
Met Jim Hinsvark’s friend and his son at SFO
Jim’s friend bought sushi and beer, our Thai lady friend shared awesome homemade food
Late night flight to TPE

Saturday, July 11

Saturday didn’t happen, flying over the Pacific
Laurie, who left earlier, arrives in Taipei

Sunday, July 12

VIP arrival in Taipei at 5:30am, met at the airport and escorted to the City Hotel
Woke up Laurie; went shopping at the street market (wonderful fresh fruit and baked goods)
Laurie, Holly, Kat, Rhonda, and Kim had a crazy (hard, couldn’t breathe through it) massage
Jim and Rachel went to the jade and flower markets
Excellent beef noodle soup
Simon arrived and looked after us
Dr. Chen calls and tells Simon to not let us eat street food ... TOO LATE!
Taipei Night Market
Late night arrivals of California and Philly contingency
Beers and laughter in the lobby
Midnight-- celebrate Mike Jr's 19th birthday!!!

Monday, July 13

Dr Chen arrived
Tailor in the lobby, Opening Ceremony outfits
Practice on the Chinese Taipei team’s boat
Trip to the bank with Dr Chen
Video review in the computer lab at the school
Bus compliments of Dr Chen
Lunch & refreshments compliments of the Chinese Taipei team
Visited Taipei 101 building
Mongolian BBQ compliments of Dr Chen
Nighttime EARTHQUAKE!!!

Tuesday, July 14

Practice on the Chinese Taipei team’s boat
Drinks compliments of the Chinese Taipei team
Lunch at Taipei 101
Bus trip the length of Taiwan, club humor in the back of the bus, conversation & sleep at the front, fun and Starbucks at the rest stops
Bus compliments of Dr Chen
Accreditation at Kaohsiung City Hall
Check into the Garden Plaza Hotel in Kaohsiung
Night Market

Wednesday, July 15

Met Jeff, our attaché
Tour Lotus Pond race venue (beautiful!!)
Karaoke on the bus (Sweet Caroline, da-da-da)
Unbelievable tour of the Buddhist Temple:

o Audience with the Venerable Master Monk
o Calligraphy, the whole team silent, wind chimes
o Largest free-standing Buddha in Asia
o Omi-toe-fo

Dinner at TGIFs in the Dream Mall, compliments of Simon's brother:
o Crazy waitress named "Cat" silenced "Fish-head" bill
o ICF officials joined our party
Bus compliments of Simon

Thursday, July 16

"85 Degrees" coffee and baked goods
Skirmish with the Canadians over the practice bus (Marc & Jimmy, wall of men)
Met our security detail
Practice at Lotus Pond on the race course
BBC Charley on the boat
Team leader meeting
Typhoon rain, running with Dr Chen and Arny
Opening Ceremonies (meeting other athletes in the field, waiting under the stadium, entering the stadium, singing Volare and We Are The Champions, laying on the ground watching fireworks)
Way, way too hot and humid for Kim in wool!!!

Friday, July 17

"85 degrees" coffee and baked goods
Race day number one – 200’s and the 2000
On-the-water battle with Germany
Team leader meeting after the 2000m
Team quarantined (Go to your room with no supper and think about what you’ve done!):
- Wall punch, team unrest
- Beer and pizza in rooms

Saturday, July 18

Race day number two – 500’s and the 1000
CNBC correspondent (The Business of Sport)
Ambulance and hospital visit (excellent care)
“Rocco’s going to kill me!!” – Jimmy Small
“Nee-How homie” – Mike Jr.
Fancy thank you dinner for Jeffrey (attaché), Richard, Yvonne, and Roger (security detail)

Sunday, July 19

Early morning lobby action:
o Team members up all night with the Russians
o “Enjoy your supper” - Jeff
o Farewell to the Philly group
Move to the Hotel New Image
Flying Disc competition in the main stadium (Heinekens and Starbucks); invented the US cheer
Chiropractors under the stadium or bus & lunch with the US Flying Disc team
Team USA Evening:
o Press Conference (yikes!), TV interviews
o Dancing, gifting mock tees to officials/dignitaries
o Meeting other US athletes (Rocky – racquetball, Chris – bowling, Kenna – sumo, etc)
TGIFs with Simon, security detail, and American Sumo team
o Rock/Paper/Scissors drink game at Simon’s insistence and hosting
Racing taxi cabs!!!!!! (really racing)
Night Market – really, really hard foot massages

Monday, July 20

Some West Coast departures
Running around in cabs with American Sumo guys, Jeff, and security detail
Flying Disc in main stadium, refined our cheers (Ike!!)
US Aerial Team (ecstatic to see our flag when they landed)
Bowling (didn’t get to see Chris but the Koreans were good)
World’s hottest soup on the hottest day (first non-Asian to eat at the stand)
Visit 11th Floor Temple, lighting incense, dripping sweat
More West Coast departures
Korfball (Chinese Taipei vs. Netherlands)
Hong Kong dinner (thanks, Tommy!) or German House with sumo guys

Tuesday, July 21

Jeff, Richard, Yvonne, and Roger still with us
Racquetball (Canadian thanked us for our support)
Chiropractor (cute Irish guy)
NRT train to "85 degrees" (chicken blood & rice popsicle) then on to Ju Jitsu
Walk through tunnel to Ju Jitsu
Dim Sum (best ever!)
Flying Disc Gold Medal match:
o Led the stadium in the US cheer and Jiao, Jiao, Jiao, USA!!! ("Go, go, go USA")
o GOLD!!! Photos with the team, captain wore my flag
o Medal ceremony, parents so thankful to us, flag very sweaty
Mid-Games Athletes party
o Cold Heineken six packs - music, dancing, singing
o Lighthouse bar (owned by an American), tequila shots – Richard’s first ever
o Jeff, Richard, Yvonne, and Roger still with us (we’ve completely corrupted them)
o Laurie and the poker-playing table of old men
o Crazy cab ride (Tom exuberant in Chinese)
o Night market (dumplings)

Wednesday, July 22

Laurie & Tom early morning departure
Total solar eclipse
Free Rx from pharmacist to Rachel
Cab to high speed train station
Farewell to Jeff, Richard, Yvonne, and Roger – I bet they miss us!!
High speed train to Taipei
Farewell on train to Ike and Cat
Very cramped and uncomfortable flight to LAX then on to PDX
A cool 90 degrees in Portland

Thursday, July 23

All day nap

Friday, July 24

Back to work and reality (missing the rock-star status of an athlete’s ID badge)

Observances:

The people in Taiwan are very FRIENDLY, all of them!
“City dogs” know how to cross the street with traffic lights
ICF dragon boat race officials are excellent (calm and calming)
Taiwan is clean and eco-friendly
World Games was bigger than imagined
I don’t do well in heat and humidity
Dr. Chen and Simon are amazing (and as always, lots of fun!)
Buddhist monks shine
Big dogs and families ride on scooters
We should have more street markets and night markets
Sometimes you don’t win but you always do your best
Public transportation is excellent in Taiwan
We can out-party sumo wrestlers
Dragon boaters and Ultimate Frisbee players get along well
1-2-3, 4-5-6, U-S-A (4 times!!)

Pictures by Tommy Leonardi

Back from the Abyss

2009-07-28T08:57:00.000-07:00

WORLD GAMES

Ok, so I did fall off the face of the earth ... I blame the Russians and Roommates! I've gotten a lot of slack for keeping everyone hanging so ... "what happened"!

So, Saturday 18-July 2009 .... tempers cooled down and we all kissed, made up and finished racing. In fact, after the races, several of us were out drinking with members of the German and Russian teams, including the German coach. It's all just the "heat of the battle" tempers that flaired and both steerspeople (US and German) made some questionable choices. In the end, the US, Hungarian and one other team were DQ'd from the race ... seems like there was other stuff going on besides what we were doing in that 2000 meter race. Anyway, it was a 2000 that will be marked in our minds and my blade forever (yes, it has battle scars)!

Saturday's 500 meter races and 1000 meter races went pretty much like the rest with the US usually finishing about 5th. Russia took all the gold medals. They were a rock-solid group of 20-25 year olds that are a true National team. While drinking with them and members of the German team all through the night, we had an opportunity to get to know them better. And, no we weren't drinking Vodka ... seems like tequila is a true international border breaker!

Then it was time to shower and move hotels. With our competitions finished, it was time to move out of the official athlete's hotel and into a new hotel. With the new hotel came a new roommate and so the computer went with the old roommate making it less accessible to blog. Sorry ... didn't know we had such a following.

For the next couple of days, we tried to attend as many of the other sporting events as possible, support the other USA teams, especially the Ultimate Flying Disk team who we befriended early on, and experience Kaohsiung as best we could. We saw a bit of aerial (formation skydiving), racquetball, korfball (yeah, we didn't know what it was either but the Dutch are exceptionally good at it!), jujitsu, bowling, and Wushu karate (I probably spelled that wrong).

We used our athelete credentials to get on the field for the medal ceremony when the Ultimate Flying Disk team collected their GOLD! It was awesome although it really unnerved our security detail that we were all out there. :) (The US, Israel and one other country all had security assigned to us due to some threats made.)

Overall the World Games were the ultimate experience of a lifetime!!! The Taiwanese people were so friendly and welcoming, I can't even begin to explain it. I feel so fortunate to have had this opportunity and great people to share it with.

Pictures (from the top):

Opening ceremonies - Olympic flag leading in

Germany paddler and Laurie hamming it up on Saturday (see we really did make up)

USA's Jeannette and Tom taking in a little Russian Gold!

On the stadium field to photograph USA's Ultimate Flying Disk Gold (Laurie, Cat, Rob & Rachel)

Letting loose with Security on the last evening (Yes, they were off duty!)

Sorry so late on this posting but I'm now...

Back in the US, back in the US,

back in the US of A!!!!

Laurie

Today's report

2009-07-17T03:39:00.000-07:00

Friday, 17-July 2009: OK, yesterday was too packed with events to get a blog in but the Opening Ceremonies were Olympic-style grandeur which, as athlete's, we got to watch the end of it from the infield of the stadium, while sweating in the tunnels below for the really cool show part. But it was truly amazing to be there.

Today was the first day of racing. The 200 meter races were the morning event. We took 3rd in our first heat, 3rd in second heat which was the fastest 3rd which put us in the A final. We ended up in 5th but ironed out a lot of things that you would normally do if you practiced together more often.

Then there was the 2000 ... we were DQ'd! We battled the German boat 3 times and hit the Japanese boat ... pinning the steers-person to the tail of the boat and spinning it across the race course which disabled all teams behind us from passing. This enabled the slower teams in front of the pack to enjoy their clear water and eventually medal. We were wondering why the Canadian teams congratulated us coming off the water.

Afterwards security whisked us away to a nearby hotel and the German team to a separate hotel. It was suggested that we not attend the all-teams buffet dinner tonight to let things blow over. Nothing like a little drama!

Racing Begins

2009-07-16T13:05:00.000-07:00

Following Gang Green's exceedingly successful excursion to Ulsan South Korea. We are sitting on pins and needles back here at home, waiting to hear the outcome of the Team USA race events at The World Games.
Thanks, Laurie, for the very detailed account of the honors and activities so far. Please let everyone know on Team USA, that all of Wasabi Paddling Club is pulling for them back here at home.

Larry
President
Wasabi Paddling Club

Honors

2009-07-16T00:01:00.000-07:00

, 15-Wednesday 15 July-2009: Today was a day off the water. The morning was ours and we had a chance to just relax. Felt good. By noon, it was time to "hit the road".

We piled in the bus with our officials, Dr. Chen & Simon, along with our attache', Jeff. First stop of the day was to see the race course and check out the boats. The pulse of the city is definitely getting excited about the games. As our bus drove along and other busses pulled alongside, people saw our USA baseball hats and frantically pulled out their cameras and were taking pictures and waving. Everywhere we go, people waive and say hi. It's really incredible to be a part of this.

Lotus Pond is the race site and it is beautiful (see picture...that's the finish line). The boats are great but can't say what they are ... I understand that they are Vietnamese. Anyway, I like 'em!!! After walking the race course we piled back into the bus and were on our way to Fo Guang Shan monastery. It is a huge complex and Dr. Chen arranged for us to meet and be blessed by the Venerable Master of the monastery. He was incredible and we heard that he actually delayed a trip to Australia by a day in order to meet us. I understand that Dr. Chen and he have known each other for quite some time and was especially thrilled to see such a mix of races on our team for he spoke a lot about blending the 'East' and the 'West'. Here's a picture of him presenting Dr. Chen with a gift of a calligraphy scroll.

We then toured the monastery, where we all had a chance to practice a little calligraphy ourselves (see picture). It was the quietest this group has ever been and quite a contrast to the karaoke that was happening on the bus on the way to the monastery. The golden Kwan Yin statues at the top of the place were breathtaking (picture).

After the monastery, we went to a mall where Simon's brother, Jay, treated everyone to dinner at TGI Fridays. In the middle of dinner, the president of the ICF (International Canoe Federation) showed up to join Dr. Chen along with several other dignitaries. They then joined us on the bus for the ride back to the hotel.

What an honor!!! It's an honor to be here, to meet the Venerable Master, and for the heads of the ICF to come to meet us. WOW!

Tomorrow we practice on the race course.

Quick answers to questions

2009-07-14T22:04:00.000-07:00

Hi gang, Thanks for the blog comments. Answers to some questions that have come in.

The Earthquake actually turned out to be a magnitude 6.3 and lasted a long 31.96 seconds. No major injuries or damage reported.

The typhoon missed us but we could see it off to the east as we travelled south to Kaohsiung.

Opening ceremonies are the evening of the 16th ... and apparently Kaohsiung built a new stadium for all this. The picture at City Hall looked impressive.

Races are the 17th & 18th.

Cheers, Laurie

The Magical Mystery Tour

2009-07-14T20:11:00.000-07:00

Taipei to Kaohsiung -- Tuesday, 14-July-2009 ... Moving day!!! But not until after practice. It was back to the beautiful BiTan Scenic Area for another practice session after an intense video review. Imagine 25 people in a very small hotel bedroom. You might say it was a bonding session ... definitely a time to get over that American 'personal space' issue. Practice was short and intense, ending with a fierce 200 meter race piece. WHEW! We'll see what the video looks like tomorrow.

After showers it was time to move the type-A's out of Taipei (I know we crack ourselves up!) We packed up our luxury coach (aka 'Bus') and were off to Kaohsiung. Imagine - enclose over 25 aggressive, high-strung, particular personalities into a small confined area, add music (yeah, Laurie brought the iPod Speakers - heh, heh) and what do you get ... boisterous, loud, rowdy raucous fun on wheels. We were amused at the sign at one rest area [see the picture with teammates Gerry (Philadelphia) and Rocco (Florida]. We were questioning just where they were taking us?

Upon arrival in Kaohsiung, we went to City Hall for our accreditations (ID Badges, etc.). The countdown to the games sign (see picture) was in the middle of the city hall building. Then it was off to the hotel where we immediately ran into members of the German Dragon boat team. One man was particularly anxious to speak English with us and he has been extremely helpful in telling us where to find the 7-11 for water, restaurants, etc. We've nicknamed him Team USA Attache' as he's our new best tour guide. Oh, by the way, Kaohsiung has assigned an attache' to the team who escorted some of our group to the local night market in the evening ... his name is Jeff.

Kibitzing from Kaohsiung... Laurie

Shake, Paddle & Roll

2009-07-13T14:57:00.000-07:00

Taipei, TW -- Monday, 13-July-2009

SHAKE - Most of the team arrived Sunday evening with the rest including Dr. Chen arriving Monday morning. We're all here!!! Time to SHAKE off the jet lag, after all today is a work day for both the Taiwanese and Team USA. Breakfast buffet was served, the tailors arrived and every one stood for their fittings of their opening ceremony slacks and jackets. The hotel lobby was abuzz, with passer-bys looking in the lobby windows. and hotel staff and guests watching. Then it was time to head to our first practice together as a complete team.

PADDLE - We piled in our bus and were off to the Hsintien River in the BiTan Scenic Area. Beautiful location! There were was a cliffside dwelling and even an area where a diving board attached to the top of some rocks. We were told that Dr. Chen used to swim here when he was a kid. Along the side of the river opposite the cliffs, was a park with docks, swan boats, 'Hello Kitty' boats, and a lone dragon boat waiting for us along with a Chase boat and driver. There is stirrings amongst the team for a head-to-head 'Hello Kitty' versus Swan boat race. Hmmm ... who will be the victor?!?

We practiced well considering the jet lag, heat and humidity. The Oregonians did it again and brought the rain with us so it kept us cooler than we normally would have been. When the first practice was complete, we piled back in the bus and went to a nearby Elementary school where Simon and Dr. Chen and arranged for us to commandeer their computer lab. Yes, we caused quite a stir amongst the school children and with many stops for pictures we made it to the lab and watched the video from the morning session. It was absolutely brilliant having the lab ... of course, a bunch of techie-savvy people led to everyone logging on, checking email, getting on the internet, etc. Brought the network to a crawl until the teacher assisting us, politely kicked us all off. After video it was back to the water to work on starts.

Evening in Taipei - Team Dinner. Back on the bus and off to dinner with Dr. Chen. But first a little stop to see some of Taipei. The bus stopped in front of Taipei 101 which is currently the second tallest building in the world. We excitedly poured off the bus and went to the top to see, literally, ALL of Taipei. Awesome!!! Here's a picture of me and my teammates from San Diego, Rob (aka Ike) & Cat. It was a bit windy at the top. Rumor is a typhoon is blowing in. Then it was off to dinner for Mongolian BBQ ... delicious and then some walking around to keep everyone awake past 9pm. :)

ROLL -- 2:06 am ... EARTHQUAKE!!! We were startled awake by a firmly rolling-style earthquake. Rachel and I jumped to the doorway and rode out the free 30-second or more ride. It was one of the longer-lasting ones I've experienced. All is well here and so far no reports yet of casualties. It turned out it was a 6.7 on the richter scale ... a valiant and successful effort in rolling us out of bed.

Safe and sound in Taipei!!

Laurie - Team USA reporter at large

Congrats to Gang Green!

2009-07-12T10:14:00.000-07:00

Reading through all of Eileen's emails from yesterday - Wasabi Gang Green will be coming home with two Bronze medals (500m & 200m) and one Silver for the 2,000m race. Well done, ladies - well all know how hard you worked to get there!

Adrift amongst the Taiwanese

2009-07-12T00:14:00.000-07:00

Taipei - Capital city of Taiwan on the northern end of the island. Input 6 Portlanders in the eastern part of the city and look out! It's Sunday which means the local market in back of the hotel has special things that aren't there the rest of the week, like the bread with a vegetable much like onion diced up on it ... made by the same woman who makes the "to die for" rice flour angel food cake. YUM. The fruit and vegetables are fabulous. We sampled various things, some known, some not! Highlight of the market was a drink made of ground up mild chili's and ice ... who knew? It wasn't spicy but all concurred that it would be great with vodka! :) Nice people, eager to share and have you taste their goods. (Picture - vegetable vendor at the market.)

As we return from the market, we see that Simon Chen has arrived. Simon and Dr. Chen are our US officials and they have made numerous arrangements for us from airport transportation, our comfortable hotels, etc. We are truly thankful. About the time we're talking to Simon, Dr. Chen calls and tells Simon to tell us not to eat the market food ... too late ... we've been there, done that. :)

Next stop -- massages. Oh why not? Rachel and Jim go off for a walkabout and the other 5 us go for an hour and a half excruciating pain and pleasure. To Kurt and David at Therapeutic Associates ... they found all kinds of new places to inflict pain ... never had eyeballs and cheeks massaged (facial cheeks that is)! And that smiling thing is that you guys all do is global! When they'd see us wince ... they'd get that same smile that the Portland physical/massage therapists get. (Go figure!)

Well, let's see ... it's 2pm, what next? Must be time to eat again. Off to a local noodle restaurant for some noodle soup. Very tasty! Alas, it's in the heat of day, time for a little downtime in the air conditioned rooms. Gives me a chance to do this blogging thing.

From Taipei - Laurie for Team USA

P.S. Congratulations to Wasabi! We hear there was a great showing at the Kent Races!!!

2009-07-11T16:37:00.000-07:00

Part of Team USA Arrives in Taipei. Hi Wasabians, Friends and Family...

The Portland contingent of Team USA has arrived in Taipei, Taiwan. Laurie got in last night so I had a nice sleep and now have the rest of the team in our room...they're rooms will be ready at 3pm! :)

Kim, Holly, Jim, Kat ventured out in search of water and Coke and found an outdoor market in back of the hotel where ... guess what? ... it's FRUIT SEASON!!! YEAH!!! For those of you who were in Penang last year will remember the fresh lychees, mangosteens, and other tasty treats that I don't even know the name of. Kim also discover the lightest little Angel Food cake like thing that I've ever had. We annihilated it and are now off in search of more treats.

From Taipei...Laurie Hansen and the Portland crew

Go Gang Green!

2009-07-09T23:43:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone -

Gang Green has quite a few updates on their blog. Be sure to follow them and send them notes of support at:

http://wasabiganggreen.blogspot.com/

Gang Green Korea bound

2009-07-06T13:02:00.000-07:00

Hi All, in the interest of keeping the Wasabi Blog less "crowded", Gang Green has set up their own Blog at wasabiganggreen.blogspot.com.

We're in the airport, ready to go...so psyched to represent Wasabi across the sea. See you all soon!

Ulsan South Korea, Seattle and Prague

2009-07-03T15:50:00.000-07:00

Very soon Wasabi's Ganag Green will be winging their way to Ulsan South Korea to compete in the ICF World Chmapionships. Good luck to Gang Green - We are very proud of you. Blog often.

Also this month several Wasabians will we headed to the World Games in Taiwan as part of Team USA's entry. This is the first time dragon boating will be an event in the World games and we are thrilled that members of Wasabi are a part of it.

Two weeks ago Waters Edge made the difficult decision to withdraw from organizing and running the Seattle Festival races and the associated PDBA championships. As of last week a consortium of representatives from Team Survivor North West, Sakecino, PDBA and Wasabi have pulled things together and the event will be held as scheduled. The PDBA championships are used to invite teams to go to Club Crew World Championships in Macau, China 2010.

.... and then several Wasabians will depart directly from Seattle for the IDBF World Championships in Prague, Czech Republic as part of Team USA. Way to go everyone.......

All in all the next 8 weeks are going to be very busy and many club members are going to have expereinces that will last a life time. Remember to have fun.

Larry