Happy Cow National Agriculture
& Trade Show Canoe Race
At the race start...
The start of the race is always an exciting moment, and the annual Happy Cow Race on April 29, 2017, was no different. Before making their first paddle stroked Team Sea Sports Belize tipped over twice, and Team Grumpy Old Men commented "That's a great way to start the race!" Most of the teams made it under the Iguana Creek Bridge without incident, accept for two. Scotia Bank Rural Boys flipped over under the bridge and Team Grumpy Old Men avoided a direct collision with their bow paddler who was in the water causing them to collide with a stick, which breached their hull in several locations. While the Grumpy Old men were on their way to the river bank to repair their canoe, the Young Grumps crossed into their sponsor's path, but were able to maneuver their canoe and continue down stream. Meanwhile, Sea Sports Belize silently passed Grumpy Old Men as they were attempting repairs on the riverbank, and the Scotia Bank Rural Boys flipped over 4 more times before heading towards the finish in Belmopan at the show grounds. Grumpy Old Men attempted repair on the river bank with duct tape, but ran out, and hauled up their boat.
There are a lot of pictures here to view, but may be helpful for teams to review their paddle strokes and boat height in the water. Enjoy and share!
There are a lot of pictures here to view, but may be helpful for teams to review their paddle strokes and boat height in the water. Enjoy and share!
... at the finish!
The winning team for this year's race was Guydis Canoes, who also came in first place in 2016. The team consisted of Chris Guydis, Euken Arnold and Balan Daniels. The first team arrived in about 2:34 minutes and the last team 3 hours.
Award Ceremony
Trophies and prizes were awarded at the Happy Cow booth. There were cash prizes for first, second and third place, and trophies and bags with Happy Cow items for first place winners. A special appearance was made by the Happy Cow mascot!