11.09.14 Canoe Festival Part 1

It was worth the anticipation. The races started at 8 and it was exciting. We had typical Yap weather, some sun, some clouds, some rain. Then Lots of rain. The canoe with the American men came in second for the 1500 meter race (Andrew, Lopo, Shane) and women from Gagil with Jenny (PCV) came in first. Had the pleasure of sitting on the embankment of the bridge at the finish line.

Here are a few picutres. This was an all day all evening event, so I will break it down as the internet allows. There was food, traditional dancing, wrestling and a concert.

Rounding the first mark on the 1500 meter race.

Here is a race committee  of one in a traditional canoe. Red flag means to  get ready.

Green flag to start the race.

He had to bail out his canoe once the race started.

These women were good.

You have to be born here I think tobe able to walk up and down these embankments.

 

Kids jumped off the bridge into the lagoon. Until, of course, the police arrived.

The teams paddled very hard. Everyone gave it their all.

Good sportsmanship.

 

 

 Lupo with the sun glasses on his neck. Andrew is behind him. They won this race.

 

Jenny from the Peace Corps on Team Gagil.