The Mandale Mighty’s were back at the annual Daisy Chain dragon boat race to defend their title at the Tees Barrage.
Daisy Chain is a fantastic local charity providing support for families with children suffering from autism, the boat race was the perfect opportunity to support a great charity and bring out our competitive side!
July 1st brought sunny weather and a team filled with hope. There were three rounds to get through before anyone made it to the semi-final and finals. Tension built throughout the day and the commentator enjoyed reminding everyone Mandale were the reigning champions and encouraged the other teams to rally together and take the trophy from us. The Mandale Mighty’s first race wasn’t until race seven so there was time to study the other teams formations.
A lot of effort and some strategic placing of team members within the boat saw Mandale win their first race with the second and third race following suit. Mandale were odds on favourites to win the competition being the only team to win all three races!
The semi-finalists were announced and Mandale were in race three against the same team they had just beat so hopes were high.
As the team set off it seemed pressure had gotten all too much as Mandale were out of sync and water was flying everywhere! Alas the other team took the lead and Mandale had to admit defeat. The only saving grace was that the same team went on to win overall so Mandale were only beaten by the new champions!
Next year will bring new hope and renewed energy to win back the trophy and put it in its rightful place.
