UHC returns to Dragon Boating

With a rich history of success, including being former national champions and competing at the World Championships, the school's legacy in the sport is impressive, and we were excited to reignite that passion.

This year, we had a dedicated girls' team, with 21 committed athletes training both before and after school to prepare for their race day on Wellington Harbour on Sunday, 2nd March. The team was being expertly managed by Shelley Shaw, Lisa Brown, and Julia Ryan, ensuring that they were well-prepared for the challenge ahead.

On the 15th of February, the team had their first practice regatta and races, marking a huge milestone for all the girls, as it was their first time paddling in a competitive race. Under the guidance of Adrian, their fantastic sweep, the team exceeded their expectations and delivered an outstanding performance.

A definite highlight was beating both Wellington East Girls and Hutt Valley High School, a moment that will go down in the team’s history!

The girls competed in the Wellington Championships on Sunday, 2nd March. The girls were all set with their singlets, flashy paddles, and an awesome chant ready for the chant-off. Fantastic weather meant sunnies and sunblock were essential as the girls took to the water for their big day.

In their first race, they finished 2nd, which was a great confidence-booster, carrying them through to a place in the minor final. Despite this being a brand new experience, the team battled choppy conditions (2 other boats capsized!) and scorching sun to make the minor finals. In a closely fought race, the team finished a very creditable overall

9th place, only 1.5 seconds behind the winners!

A great day on the water for the UHC Girls Dragonboating team.

An awesome effort from a talented crew - look forward to next year!!