Pain II

My weekend was filled with deep sorrow. I was pursuing the reports and news of the dragon boat accident in Cambodia both from the papers and on the internet. Even though I know that the chances of finding the 5 gentlemen alive diminished once it past the first hour immediately after the capsize. Deep inside me, I know that the outcome was grim... but I clinch on to this slim hope that miracles do happen... but it evaded all who prayed for them.

My heart still winches in pain and sorrow...I don't know any of them, but being a sports enthusiast myself, I know it requires alot of self-discipline and commitment to juggle different commitments, be it work or studies (in my case, also family and children) and the sporting passion. sometimes, it can be very trying and draining. but we all persist, because passion is the driving factor.

on many occasions previously, when i was still able to train with the Toa Payoh SAFRA running club, I witnessed the sheer commitment and passion of the dragonboaters (who's gym and room is next to the SAFRA RC), be it circuit training, weights, running at the nearby Toa Payoh Stadium or paddling at the pool. this is no easy feat.

I am getting emo... among the demise, was Stephen Loh who teaches in NJC and Jeremy Goh trainee teacher. both, like myself, are comrades in Education. reading their bio, you can sense that passion in their sports being cascaded down to the students and to the teaching profession (especially for Stephen). These are the kind of teachers that the service needs... to inspire and leave a legacy and make a difference in the lives of those they touch.

what a loss... although many felt that wearing the life vest might help, or waiting for the tow boat instead of paddling back themselves might prevent this tragedy. having done some water sports myself and reading the ST today abt the conditions at the time, the life vest might not help.... this is really a freak accident...sigh...

but perhaps, the timing of the competition, the venue etc could be reviewed.

till the inquiry report is out, and like Reuben's father said, it is not the time to find faults or point fingers, but to work out ways to prevent such tragedies (or minimise the likelihood of recurrences).

to the 17 survivors, don't blame yourself. in this trying times, stay strong, keep the DB spirit going, and keep the passion burning. I am sure Reuben, Jeremy, Stephen, Poh and Chee would want you guys to perservere.

Sigh... It is a huge loss to the nation, the sports and education fratenity.

My heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the 5, and to the
5 great people, you have left a legacy. I will dedicate my 7th Marathon in memory of 5 great youths and teaching comrades.

Rest in peace

sad