Thursday, February 23, 2012

Life Lessons from the Philippine Dragon Boat Team


I had the fortunate pleasure of hearing the Philippine Dragon Boat Team share their story of success during our corporate convention yesterday.  It was truly an inspiring account of perseverance and determination amidst seemingly insurmountable odds.  

Prior to winning the 2011 gold medal and setting world records for the small boat events that they won (total of 5 golds and 2 silvers), the team won the standard boat category in 2007 and 2009 of the biennial competition.  However, the chance for the team to defend this title was blown when the Philippine Olympic Committee and the Philippine Sports Commission withdrew its support.  With no budget and no equipment, it was sheer miracle that the team  got a 12-man contingent to participate.  They did not even have their travel documents ready barely a week before the event.  According to the Dragon Warriors Coach Annabelle Tario, “With obstacle, you’re fired up to do better, to excel, to prove others wrong, and to tell people to trust Filipino athletes."  This epitomizes the resolve that the Dragon Warriors have in achieving their goals.  


Many of us quit the moment problems arises.  We're so encapsulated in our own comfort zones that it compromises our potential to succeed.  But as what we have learned with the Dragon Warriors' success story it is not enough that you have the dream.  It is important that that the dreamer has the HEART to succeed.  To do what needs to be done to achieve the goal, always at a ready to face adversity as a necessary obstacle to overcome and make you better.  But then, success does not stop there.  Success is remaining on top.  Winning after all is not a one time deal.  It is getting ahead of the competition and beating them every time.


The Dragon Warriors were at a big disadvantage when they competed in Florida.  They had no equipment. The paddles they used were junior size courtesy of the US team, they ate whatever their Filipino supporters provided and they were faced by a much bigger and stronger players.  But whatever they lacked in terms of equipment, size, and heft they made up for their overwhelming determination to WIN!  And they did win---in RECORD BREAKING STYLE!


Anything is possible if you put your mind into it.          



No comments:

Post a Comment