The night lazily crept to the horizon’s edge on the first day of the season’s final race, as Lightwave paddlers headed to the Treasure Island. Newly-christened Watermelon (aka 1) and Pineapple (aka 2) crews were scheduled to race in the first two heats. The team finished the setup logistics just in time for the drizzling rain…

Despite the rain and chilly wind, Watermelon managed to place second in the first heat securing competitive seeding on the next one. The Pineapple got into recreational seeding and, on its second heat, managed to smoke all the other teams securing a place in top Recreational Division A. Against the top competitive teams, Watermelon ended up in Competitive Division B, despite stronger performance in its second heat. The first day was closed by gender races by full Lightwave team for Mens and joint with Castaways for Womens.

It’s not about winning or losing. It’s about looking pretty.

Or not.. since it’s time for fun dinner with guest team DPW from LA at the Fook Yuen Restaurant in Millbrae. In total, there were about 65 people from both Lightwave and Team DPW. Both teams got to learn more about each other from the non-stop conversations occurring at each table. Team DPW presented Lightwave with the following items: thank you card, glossed handpainted with both teams’ logo, wooden paddle and handmade refrigerator magnets with photo of both teams.

We’re too sexy for our paddle.

The second day was less cold and wet than the first. However, fatigue from day one set in. Both crews ended up on consolation on their respective designated division (competitive B and recreational A) after two more heats. The results were actually better than last year’s since it was the first time the team managed to get into competitive division B. Pineapple also did a great job going into recreational division A with mostly just half year experience.

I’m sooo awesome!

After both team DPW and Lightwave finished all heats, the main event was on: wasabi roll eating contest. Each team had to assign 10 men and 10 women to finish the rolls one at a time. It was tough (pun intended) competition and both teams played tricks on each other for fun. In the end, Lightwave proved that we still got the groove when it comes to eating!

Hmm… I’m allergic to wasabi, my ear is itchy…

Special Thanks

• Food coordinators: Jennie, Jessica, Olivia, Dan, Ed
• Tent/DPW Gift coordinators: Alison, Jackie, Steven, Danielle
• Events coordinators: Frank, Leann, Susan, Joy, Agus
• Alan and his ‘kids’ for filling up the roster
• All who attended TI and the dinner!

Photos courtesy of Gary Wu and Barney Chan.