Lake District Boat Club best dressed boat.

The challenge has been put down again. Another goal for Paddlers for Life to strive for. Can we become the best dressed boat on Windermere? Elaine and Barbara step forward to plan a theme and organise the decoration of the boat. There are many creative people who can contribute their own ideas and skills to add those extra touches, seat covers, costumes and additional materials. Thanks June and Mags and Christine.

The day starts early. Roger works doggedly to ensure our two dragon boats are lashed together. A super structure of hooped tent poles, guy lines and wooden stays ensure there is a firm framework for the decorations. Supports are assembled  to take lanterns or streamers on canes and the heads are dressed with flowers, greenery and plumes rendering them ever more beautiful.

Poles are bound in gold and red and tassels and lanterns are added. Lights are strung along guy lines and dragon flies hover.  The team work steadily through the day as the boats are transformed by the dedicated team.

Soon oriental costumes are donned and the paddlers set off in good spirits to paddle the four miles to Bowness. The journey is quickened by excitement and optimism. Spirits are lifted by sunshine and singing as well as the 'stroke-tap' of our paddling rhythm.

A few moments of uncertainty as we arrive at Bowness and then a welcome berth at Total Sailing for last minute preparations. Many more lanterns, lights, parasols, penants and incense complete the decorations along with last minute costume additions. We muster at the meeting point along with Popeye, Alice in Wonderland, Father Christmas, Morris Dancers and Avatar.

Then the procession twice circuits Bowness Bay. Our beautiful boats, enthusiastic singing and rhythmic paddling elicit applause and warm support from onlookers, especially from fellow paddlers on the shore.

As we paddle back towards Low Wood we soon cadge a tow from our support boat and a smooth, quicker ride home. Roger's handiwork ensures that the boats tow well with a moment of excitement as the boats hit a surprise wave.

A quick undressing of some decorations and paddlers rush back to Bowness. Paddlers for Life have won the shield for the best team boat! 

Already Barbara and Elaine are musing on ideas for next year!

Well done everyone for your multiplicity of team skills, ideas and  effort.

Thank you Elaine and Richard at Total Sailing for providing a temporary berth to complete preparations.

Thank you Eric at Dash Dynamics for supplying our stickers. 

The Dragon Boats are ready to go.

See more  pictures here at Paddlers for Life.