Race Day

As the ceremonies were opened for the 1st Annual Tudor Creek Dragon Boat Regatta, we all gathered for the “dotting-of-the-eye” by Mrs. Chen and Mrs. Patwa. Seif Patwa and Mary Melton also gave some opening words, and Lisa Stafford recited a blessing for the beginning of the races.

There are only 3 teams participating: Kenya Team A, Kenya Team B and Team USA. The Kenyans have only had their 2 dragon boats for 3 months, but are already looking like a formidable presence on the water.

Today’s races are 250m along the creek in front of the hotel. The Kenyans have had difficulty trying to recruit female paddlers, so consequently, Team USA with its 3 women paddlers are the only mixed team.

Team USA paddling with Kenyans to backfill the boat, and our 3 women, ended up 3rd out of 3 teams for the day.

After some rest, one of the regatta sponsors, Dr. Li, who owns a drinking water distribution plant, invited Team USA to a “Moonlight Barbecue” at a Chinese restaurant located near the water on Mombasa Island. Not bad food for Africa! Also tasted cassava chips and a delicacy from the top of the coconut palm tree.