USA Dragon Boat Time Trials

I want to say thanks for the support that everyone has
shown over the past couple weeks for those
making the trip to the time trials.

Going into this experience we had a very good idea that the chances of
actually making the US team would be slim, but what else do we have to
lose? If anything we gained priceless experience and have an idea what
our competition is.

Of the teams that showed it was clear the the guys trialing were the
heart of the engine room for their respective teams. The average height
was well over 6 feet and the times were around 2:58, the best being 2:47 and

the worst being in the 3:20's.  I want to say that the talent there was amazing.

Now, these trials were just an opportunity to qualify for an invite to Philly

for an official trial for around 3 seats available for the Premier

team(under40). Bob only selected 2 Florida top times (Dan 2:47 and Paul 2:52).

Bruno and I did not make that cut but Bruno had a well respected time of 2:58.

When you see him please congratulate him. I on the other had didn't do as well

versus these engine room studs, I posted a time of 3:15.

During all the organizing of these trials it was thought that since the

best paddlers in the area were going to be in Tampa for trials, that a

Florida all-star team would be tested. It was refreshing to be in a boat
that with paddlers that were focused and alert. there was no chatting, when
the coach was talking, there was full understanding of what was going on. I
enjoyed every minute of my experience.