I am sorry we failed to defend the title we won in 2006 and 2007. It just wasn't the same without you physically alongside when we fight during our races. Something was missing and everyone felt it.
The team rowed with their hearts and we did the best we could. The margin of defeat was split seconds in the semis and I couldn't help but wish if only you were in the line up.
It was selfish of me to always place you beside me for all the races we had. You always had the aura of making those around you push harder and feel that secure calmness before a crucial race. I still remember the sava races we had, when you lost the paddle but still carried on motivating and pushing us on to finish the race. When we entered the finals, you made up for the earlier race by paddling even harder. The final burst, when everyone was tired, I could still hear you shouting "ho sei liao" to encourage us to go on and give our last ounce of energy. The boat responded and we overtook PNP at the final buoy. What a race. Like you said before, "easily the best race I had."
all that remains now, are just fond memories. memories of paddling and joking around. memories of your voice and strength in the boat.
I can only wish that all those who loved you dearly, will find a way, somehow to carry on, like what you would want us to do. Losing you was the biggest setback our team could have, and dragonboating will never be the same again.
to a dear friend, Eujin,
Matt
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