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The
Liechtenstein Princely Navy has conquered the South China Sea! For
the first time in the long history of the traditional dragon boat
race, held annually during the Tuen Ng Festival in Stanley, the
Liechtenstein Princely Navy has fielded a strong and (almost) invincible
team. Powered by a 20-strong, highly motivated crew of Princely
Sailors and determined foreign mercenaries, the Liechtenstein Princely
Navy set its eyes on the coveted dragon boat trophy.
A rigorous, month-long training schedule (which included the
unintentional sinking of the boat in the first session) resulted
in the Liechtenstein Princely Navy not only being the best prepared
armada in Hong Kong physically, but also technically and strategically
(remember that 'how-to-open-a-can-of-beer-while-rowing session'?).
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to say, our first battle was a momentous and victorious affair.
At 0815, in 30 degree-plus temperatures, the Princely Navy headed
for the starting line with seven other teams, including the vicious
'Valley Warriors' and the unpredictable 'Goldman Sachs' boys. Our
start was picture-perfect, with 10 well co-ordinated first strokes
followed by an unrelenting salvo of powerful cruising speed strokes.
We finished a spectacular third, which catapulted us straight into
the semifinals of the Cup competition (with the Goldman boys heading
straight for the loser's Plate competition). |
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Our semifinal
performance was not as stellar as our debut, but nevertheless impressive.
Lined up against the best-of-the-best in the world, our start was
somewhat slow (I think the helmsman did not let go of the rope)
and despite the relentless encouragement of our excellent Chief
Drum Officer the Princely Navy was unable to advance to the front
of the field. The effects of too much sunshine and maybe just a
tiny bit too much Carlsberg had obviously shown through. Nevertheless,
we finished an honorable sixth, which denied us a place in the finals
but placed us on an excellent 16th rank overall, out of 62 team. |
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Admiralty of the Liechtenstein Princely Navy extends its gratitude
to all Princely Navy Personnel for their sacrifices and hardship,
their countless supporters, and its financial backer, LGT Bank in
Liechtenstein. All rowers are encouraged to immediately start with
push-ups for next year! |
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