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The 'boat' race

Missing image
In '61 at the Alice
a 'boat' race was run and won
with not a drop of water to be seen

The river bed is dry
these 'boats' run on land
powered only by the contestants feet

Many laughs are had by all
as the strange craft race down the track
towards the finish line

Some have 'sails' some do not
but if it rains and there is water in the riverbed
they have to cancel the 'boat' race and take shelter instead

The dust sure flies
laughter fills the air
one hapless crew has taken a tumble (and it was in the lead)

It continues on an annual basis
attracting huge crowds of competitors and onlookers
keen to experience this strange event

Where does such a strange event occur one may wonder
right here at Alice Springs
fifteen hundred kilometres from the nearest body of water

So if you should venture to the Alice
around race time
you should just stop and take a look

at the Henley-on-Todd Regatta

Author notes

Prompt given by host regarding Australia..I chose to write about a strange dry riverbed 'boat' race, held annually at Alice Springs, called the Henley-on-Todd Regatta..picture and info used from www.ozoutback.com.au/postcards/postcards_forms/nt_henleyontodd/index.htm#Pics and you can find more pics and info at www.henleyontodd.com.au ...It is typically Australian especially in the dry outback region. The 47th will be contested on Aug 30 2008. Good luck all

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Comments


  • DolphinLass silver member
    May 31, 2008
    Edit | Reply
    thanks for comments, I am glad you like my entry


  • Errant Panther gold member
    May 31, 2008

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    Lovely entry with a tinge of humour. I remember having competed in the event myself once, in a black uniform no less when it was about 40C in the shade. great subject choice.


  • Frozentearz
    May 18, 2008

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    What I like most about this poem is what I learned You have brought a piece of history to the reader.
    well done and thanks for joining in,
    Warm thoughts.
    Frozentearz


  • Patpowers silver member
    May 18, 2008

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    Good JOB!!

    Very interesting to know that they would do something like this in an area where there is no water. I find this quite amusing DolphinLass. THANKS!!