TOWN’S PADDLER MAKES GRADE FOR DRAGON BOAT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS.
On the weekend of 18th April, the British Dragon Boat Racing Association (BDA) brought their Senior (over 40’s) squad to St Neots for a training camp as part of their preparations for the 12th World Nations Dragon Boat Championships to be held in Canada in August this year. The GB squad gave their hosts, the St Neots Dragon Boat team, extra cause for celebration with the news that one of their crew, Gerard Baker, had secured a place in the World Championship squad.
44 year old Gerard, who lives in St Ives said, ‘It’s amazing, I am so proud of what I have achieved. All my friends and family are so proud, it is one of the greatest moments of my life. The camaraderie and welcome that the GB team have given me, even before I made the final squad has been second to none. I can’t wait until August to be sat on the plane to Canada and test our mettle against the best the rest of the world has to offer.’
GB Seniors Head Coach, Alyson Butterfield commented, ‘The warm welcome and hospitality we receive with the St Neots Dragon Boat Team is second to none. I am delighted that Gerard has won a spot in the crew for Canada and I’m hoping to persuade St Neots helmsman Mick Clarke (Club chairman) to train with us with a view to joining the Seniors squad for the European championships in Italy next year.’
Whether you aspire to compete on the national stage, or are just interested in a fun and sociable hobby, the St Neots Dragon Boat Team are always on the lookout for new members of any age, prior experience is not necessary. If you are interested in giving the sport a try, contact us on: info@stneotsdbt.co.uk or visit our website: www.stneotsdbt.co.uk for more information.
