Many teams have their traditions before a big race or game; whether it is a team bonding dinner, a movie night, or an inspirational pep talk, these simple rituals serve as something that connects the team and strengthens the bond among all of them. However, the Galileo dragon boat team’s traditions come in the form of gift-giving–more specifically, custom lanyards that are unique to each paddler. What started as a fun idea to make small racing gifts for paddlers in the summer of 2002 to foster collaboration and unity within the team turned into an annual tradition still celebrated and honored on the team today.
These small presents, usually given on the morning of race day, take the shape of bracelets or lanyards, each of which is inscribed with a paddler’s nickname—a unique label that has meaning for the team formed by the paddler’s experiences and connection with the team. Dragon boat officers and interns usually make about 40 bracelets, which takes them over 4 hours to complete, usually done 2 weeks before race day.
The gift, given on race day, serves as a reminder that dragon boating is more than just the sport—it’s about the memories and relationships we make with one another. “The lanyard is more than just a name—it’s a part of who we are as a team,” stated Freshman paddler Clarissa M. Junior Sienna L. said, “Every time I look at my bracelet, I’m reminded of the people I’m in this with, knowing that I’m a part of something much larger helps me stay focused.”
The nicknames themselves frequently have sentimental value, signifying a tale, a shared giggle, or a specific memorable moment that the paddler had on the team. When newer team paddlers receive their race gift, it symbolizes their integration and debut into the team’s culture, having joined a community of individuals bound together by shared passion and dedication. The presents are a way for seasonal and veteran paddlers to honor their years of dedication, successes, and friendships. “It felt like I had found my place in the team when I got my first race gift.” Junior Claire L. said. “It’s my link to everyone here, not just a nickname.”
These race presents are still valuable outside of the races. Many paddlers let their lanyards or bracelets serve as a symbol of their love and dedication to the team by wearing them on their lifejackets every practice or as a keychain on their backpacks. It becomes some sort of reminder for them of the early-morning cold practices on the lake, the intense water training, and the exhilaration of finally paddling past the finish line together. The tradition serves more than just a ritual; it’s a way for paddlers on the team to honor the collective spirit and celebrate the growth of everyone.
These “race gifts” bind teammates from various seasons and guarantee that the tradition of perseverance and friendship endures. Every gift given and received serves as a reminder that dragon boating is about more than just racing; it’s also about the enduring relationships made along the way.
