Black Pond Dog Paddle Races

On Saturday, July 14th, while those in France were celebrating their independence (I think I have that date right), I was making deviled eggs and then heading to Bob's sister's camp on Black Pond for the Dog Paddle races they hold each year. Family and friends crowd onto a small sloping yard to spend a day eating and playing in the water.

The blue paddle boat got a lot of use. Paddle boat paddles are built in and move by foot work.

I had brought a bathing suit. Bob didn't even pretend that he might get near the water...he was wearing work pants and landlubber shoes.

As people arrived, so did food. We found a large inner tube to sit on while enjoying a nice picnic lunch. Eventually we moved into chairs to watch the kids in the water. I managed to get a little water on Bob, which was as close as he came to getting wet.

 Later in the afternoon people were paired up to race. Little tykes didn't have to go far. Those who were able, were to swim to the float or around the float and back. The rule was to use the dog paddle, no arms out of the water.

Most people followed the rule. Some just had to win no matter what...not that it was going to make any difference since T shirts were the prize just for participating.... I happily came in third out of three and enjoy wearing my T shirt.

Bob's son, Ray, in the yellow shirt, was the organizer, starter, and finish line as well. He did a great job with all the kids, most of whom did do the dog paddle.

I'm negotiating with Bob for next year. He has always just watched, but he's considering the idea of  the two of us racing while in car inner tubes. I could improve my score and come in second!

One family brought a pair of kayaks. Actually, sitting in a large truck-size inner tube, and there were a good number of inner tubes available, I think would be a neat way to explore the pond...just have to get Bob into his swim trunks.

I headed home at 6 PM, but Bob returned before dark for the fireworks.