Boat takes an unexpected trip

Severe storms in the overnight hours of May 8 caused our beloved dragon boat, named Hope, to fly off the trailer where it is stored near Homer Lake. Upon its discovery the next morning, Coach Debi put out a call to the team – on Mother’s Day, no less – to assist in helping get the 900-pound boat back onto its trailer.

More than a dozen team members, family and friends were able to answer the call. After a good look over the bottom of the boat, it appeared there was not any major damage to the hull. The boat was turned back onto its right side, and the rescuers used handles on the inside of the boat to slide it along the grass and back behind the trailer.

They were able to lift the front end and get it up on the back of the trailer. Then they lifted the back end and slid it all the way on! The most apparent damage consisted of two handles that just snapped, and the oar lock will need some repairs. Still, Hope did get an appointment for a more thorough wellness and safety checkup, along with a little extra TLC after the ordeal.