Desert Falcons dragon boat practice kicked off on Sunday evening, August 10, 2025, at QD’s – Deira Creek, this time under the warm glow of the late afternoon sun. The breeze was gentle. The water was calm. And the green jerseys were back in action. Perfect time to paddle and grow as a team.

🕔 Early Evening Kick-Off

Our call time was set for 5:05 PM. By 5:20 PM, the boat was loaded, paddles ready, and water bottles in place. Exactly five minutes later—at 5:25 PM—we pushed off the dock and started our journey.

The session?
A solid 1 hour, 12 minutes, and 16 seconds of moving time. That’s 5,806 meters of strokes, teamwork, and determination. Not bad for a Sunday evening!

---

⭐ IntanM Leads the Way

This time, IntanM took the role of both coach and steerer. With clear instructions and steady steering, the team kept a smooth rhythm throughout the training. Every set had its purpose—building power, improving timing, and keeping everyone focused.

---

🛶 The Crew

Here’s who jumped in for the ride:

• Gan, JJ, Radhi, and Verna held their spots strong.
• Mahmoud powered through his seat like a champ.
• IS kept the pace at the back, adding those steady strokes that hold the crew together.

Some seats were still open, but that didn’t slow us down. If anything, it gave everyone more reason to pull harder and make each stroke count.

---

🎯 Training a New Steerer

Before wrapping up, the Falcons took some time to do something special—training a new steerer!
Our very own JJ stepped up to try steering the boat. With guidance from IntanM, JJ got hands-on experience with the steering oar, learning how to keep the boat straight, adjust direction, and feel the flow of the water.

It was a great moment for the team. Not only does it build JJ’s confidence, but it also shows how the Falcons are always growing leaders from within. More steerers mean more strength for the future—and that’s exactly what makes this team unstoppable.

---

🌅 Why Evening Paddles Hit Different

Training in the late afternoon has its own magic.
The sun was setting, turning the sky shades of orange and pink. The creek shimmered in the light, and every paddle splash looked like liquid gold.

Plus, the temperature was kinder than the midday heat. It made the long-distance paddle feel just a little easier (well… almost!).

---

💚 Falcons Green in Motion

We kept the tradition alive with our Falcons Green jerseys. The bright color stood out against the water, making our boat easy to spot from the shore. More than just a shirt, it’s our badge of unity.

Every time we wear it, we’re reminded—this isn’t just about paddling. It’s about belonging.

---

📈 Strong Start to the Season

Two weeks into August and the 2025/2026 season is already looking promising. The team is getting faster. Strokes are cleaner. And endurance? Definitely growing. Desert Falcons dragon boat practice isn’t just a workout—it’s where rhythm, trust, and race habits are built. The boat felt tighter by the end. That’s a win.

Sunday’s 5.8 km session wasn’t just about distance—it was about building the foundation for the races ahead. Every training like this brings us one step closer to peak performance.

---

🚀 Your Turn to Join Us

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to paddle in a dragon boat, here’s your sign:
Come and give it a try! You don’t need to be a pro. You just need to bring your energy and willingness to learn.

We train weekly, and new members are always welcome. Whether you’re here for fitness, fun, or competition, you’ll find a spot in our crew.

---

📸 Related Falcon Stories:

• 💦 Sunday Paddle Vibes with Desert Falcons 🌙
• Desert Falcons Summer Paddle: Back on Water with Green Jersey Energy

---

The water is waiting. The Falcons are flying. And the season has just begun. See you at the next paddle! 🛶💪