Madam Mayor Makes Waves with Manvers Junior Paddlers

Civic leader joins young dragon boaters for a splash-filled training session at Manvers Waterfront: Manvers Lake, Sunday 2^nd November

It’s not every day you see civic leadership in a buoyancy aid, but this weekend, Madam Mayor swapped her chain of office for a paddle to join the Team Manvers Junior Dragons for an energetic hour-long dragon boat training session at Manvers Waterfront Boat Club.

Before taking to the water, Madam Mayor was introduced to the Junior Dragons — a team of enthusiastic young paddlers who, just a few months into their training, are already showing great teamwork and skill. She received an informative safety briefing and a paddling technique demonstration from Isla and Erin, who have been with our Junior Dragons since it began. 

The juniors gave the Mayor a warm welcome as she joined them for drills, race starts, and plenty of laughter — including a few surprise splashes. (For the record, the paddler in front may still be drying off!)

Despite the damp conditions, Madam Mayor paddled in perfect time with the crew and completed the full session with admirable gusto.

“It’s so beautiful and peaceful out on the water,” she said afterwards, smiling despite the spray.

Section Coordinator Caramia Muffet added:

“It was lovely to have Madam Mayor out on the water training with the juniors. They’ve come so far in just a few months, and having her join us made the session extra special.”

The Team Manvers Junior Dragons train every Sunday at Manvers Waterfront Boat Club, meeting at 10:00am and paddling from 10:30am to 11:30am. Junior sessions are currently free of charge, though advance booking via the club’s website is required.

Adult paddlers are also welcome to join the club’s social sessions on Sundays (11:00am–12:30pm) and Thursdays (6:00pm–7:30pm), while more experienced paddlers can take part in up-tempo training on Monday evenings (6:00pm–7:30pm).

A big thank-you goes to the club’s Photography Section for capturing the day.