Ken Reandelar

"I joined Triton in 2014. My friend invited me to try paddling because I wanted to try a sport. At that time, paddling was just a minor hobby. It was just a facade to tell people or my friends that I had an active lifestyle.

It wasn’t all that fun and exciting when I first started because I was immediately in the time trial program. I have a history of asthma - my inflamed airways can make it difficult for me to breathe, and my endurance is weak. I was a bit competitive, so it was important that I was physically and mentally prepared. I religiously attended the weekday to weekend land and boat trainings with the team; I loved being called out on the boat to correct my form, and noted the corrections to be applied on the next set of programs. My goal then was to be lined up for the DB Regatta Race and some other local competitions run by the Philippine Dragon Boat Federation (spoiler, I made it).

As months progressed, paddling slowly became a routine; waking up early in the morning, meeting up with my carpool friends, going to Manila Bay, training for a good thirty minutes to an hour. I learned to block the pain (as our team captain puts it) and sustain my energy. It’s a good workout and a nice way to jumpstart the morning.

The best part has been hearing validation from our coach and team captains, and earning respect from my teammates that I looked up to when I first started. Their support and endless encouragement fueled my passion for the sport. I am proud to call myself an athlete now, and will hopefully bring a medal for my country and for our team in international competition."

[Ken F. Reandelar (Manila, Philippines), paddler on Triton Dragon Boat Racing Team.]

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