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Mbedha Kiboigo Ebbtide Reporter The Frostbite Regatta on Green Lake marked the end of the fall season for Lake Union Crew. For the past two years, I have rowed on the intermediate sweep team, which uses one oar to each person, instead of two. As I reflected on the positive outcomes of this season, I am reminded of my first race. The soft wind brushed against my skin, as the idle morning greeted the world with a whisper. Glancing around the lake, I saw birds of various colors and shapes dancing in the sky. Being at the lake permitted me to get lost in time, and live within the moment, preserving the beautiful ambience that many do not take advantage of during the daytime. Moments like these allow me to savor the tranquility of the sunrise before the madness of the city takes over the majestic atmosphere. The landscape surrounding me was a breathtaking sight to behold, but at this moment, I wished for nothing more than to be sleeping peacefully, curled up in my blanket. The sounds of devout coaches instructing their teams to move the boats into the water pierced my ears like a large aircraft taking off. My crew team was commanded to begin warming up around the lake, and wearily we managed to climb into our seats. At this moment I realized why waking up at this hour meant so much to me. It was because of the way the oar severed the calm waters underneath the boat, the way my teammates created a union of strength to row as one, the way the scenery glistened while it still remained untouched with life. It was because of the blissful sounds of the fans as they cheered, and the feeling of earning the right to win first place. Soon the race began, with the fanfare of the presenter, and all the boats took their places. At the sound of the whistle, the first three boats soared across the water. From a distance where my boat waited for command, the sight of the teams catching their oars in the water and feathering their blades in equanimity was extraordinary. Knowing that for this to occur, all the rowers must anticipate the reactions of those sitting before them, with the stern seat setting the pace, I realized the discipline necessary for this sport. At the sound of the whistle, I transferred back to the race, and it was my boat's turn to start the sprint. The eight of us sat ready at the catch position with our oars perpendicular to the lake, and the command was given for us to move. The most difficult strokes are often in the beginning because they must set a natural speed that will continue throughout the race. We managed to storm ahead of some of the other boats, but were still behind. Looking to my left, I saw the emotions raging in my competitor's eyes as she struggled to maintain composure and keep her head in the game. I tried to do the same, as my team used this moment to take their 10 best strokes to lead us into first place. It seemed as though I was caught in a paradox where the finish line appeared like the greatest distance that I could travel, yet it was almost close enough that I could feel the intensity of victory. With each stroke of my oar, pain shot through my body, the agony became merciless and I was ready to welcome the temptation of defeat. Struggling with this forlorn battle, I concentrated on keeping the right form and ignoring the pain by listening to the encouragement from my teammates. What feels like the passing of eternity soon ends, and my team brushed past the other boats into first place. Instantly, I understand that half the battle had been fought and prosperity lay before me. With one final stroke we cross the line, and joy and pride overwhelmed me. This is the moment that I had been waiting to capture since early dawn and every sore muscle in my body rejoiced as the challenge was imbedded forever in my memory. With winter season commencing in two weeks, these memories will serve as a pillar of strength preparing me mentally to meet the physical demands of land training. If interested in learning more about rowing or to join this crew team, call (206) 860-4199 or visit their website, www.lakeunioncrew.com. © 2003 Shoreline Community College™ |