Mako vs Scotland Island: A Tale of Grit, Glory, and a Little Saltwater

Mako Paddle Club had always been known for its tenacity, its camaraderie, and, most importantly, its ability to laugh in the face of exhaustion. So when the opportunity arose to take on the Annual 8km Scotland Island Dragon Boat Race in Sydney, there was no hesitation—just a flurry of paddle wax, protein bars, and last-minute strategies involving exaggerated pep talks and promises of post-race feasting.

Arrival in the Harbour City

Sydney greeted the Mako crew with a dazzling sun, the scent of salt in the air, and, of course, the slight nervous energy that comes before a big race. With 24 boats in the field, competition was fierce, but the Makos weren’t just there to paddle—they were there to make waves.

Race day dawned with the kind of crisp morning that had the winds in an each-way bet and some paddlers question their life choices, but as the first crew headed to the start line, their dragon boat cut through the water like a sleek predator, and a Mako brouhaha was on the cards.

The Race—Twice as Nice

Mako took to the water not once but twice, proving that a little déjà vu never hurt anyone. With mostly the same crew for both races, their collective muscle memory kicked in, and they attacked the course with sheer determination and an occasional rogue splash to the face. 

The first race set the tone—a balance of power, precision, and the undeniable need to catch the boat just ahead. The second race? Sheer bloodymindedness in the face of exhaustion, blisters, and salt rash.

At the finish line, the results spoke for themselves: Mako clocked the 3rd and 4th fastest times out of 24 boats—a feat worthy of celebration. Their performance cemented them as a force to be reckoned with and proved that a season plan, teamwork, and maybe a little stubbornness go a long way.

Victory in More Ways Than One

With the races behind them and arms that felt like overcooked noodles, Mako did what any sensible team would do – cracked out the beers and bubbly and celebrated an awesome day’s racing, and someone’s birthday. Tales of strategic moments and near-misses echoed around the table, as did plans for the next big adventure, NSW State titles.

Because for Mako Paddle Club, it’s never just about the race. It’s about the journey, the camaraderie, and the sheer thrill of testing the limits—one paddle stroke at a time.

Want more? There’s heaps of other pics and videos of the day over on our Facebook page.