Pete McNamara | Philadelphia, PA
Five Questions asks Coach Pete McNamara:
How were you introduced to the sport of dragon boat racing?
Back in 1984, I was coaching crew at Villanova University and Bob (brother) had made the national team that went to Hong Kong that year. He encouraged me to give it a shot—“you can make this boat” was his quote. I tried out for the 1985 team and ended up in stroke seat and off to Hong Kong I went (the first of 7 trips there).
You have also been involved in rowing over the years – what do you find to be the significant differences in your experience having been in both?
I still row out of one of the clubs on Boathouse Row and race quite a few times a year. Rowing is tough—your legs are much more involved. What I tell my rowing friends is that there is nothing like our DB practices where we try to kick the other boats butts every day—every piece. Also, racing internationally is awesome. There is nothing like the start of a race, hearing the explosion of sound the second the horn goes off and all the commands in different languages—a unique experience.
How were you introduced to the sport of dragon boat racing?
Back in 1984, I was coaching crew at Villanova University and Bob (brother) had made the national team that went to Hong Kong that year. He encouraged me to give it a shot—“you can make this boat” was his quote. I tried out for the 1985 team and ended up in stroke seat and off to Hong Kong I went (the first of 7 trips there).
You have also been involved in rowing over the years – what do you find to be the significant differences in your experience having been in both?
I still row out of one of the clubs on Boathouse Row and race quite a few times a year. Rowing is tough—your legs are much more involved. What I tell my rowing friends is that there is nothing like our DB practices where we try to kick the other boats butts every day—every piece. Also, racing internationally is awesome. There is nothing like the start of a race, hearing the explosion of sound the second the horn goes off and all the commands in different languages—a unique experience.
Can you describe one of your more memorable dragon boat experiences?
One of my more memorable experiences---that’s a tough one—I have a lot!! I guess it would be in '97 when we won our first 500 meter World Title in Hong Kong. It was a great team and all but 2 guys from Philly. We took a starting 40 and when we hit our settle – it was perfect!! The boat just took off. Hearing Joyce, our drummer, asking for seats and being able to pull away still gives me goose bumps just thinking about it. But the one in response to your next question is right up there as well.
How do you find coaching compared to participating as a paddler? Do you do both equally?
I primarily coached the Youth team and fortunately I got to coach and participate at the same time since I would steer the Youth team in their races. Seeing a team come together is very rewarding. I would mike myself up for the races and enjoy the time on the water with them. The Under 16 Mixed final in Prague (2009) was an experience I’ll never forget. We beat an excellent Canadian team by a few feet and to see the kids’ reactions was priceless—both my son and Bob’s (McNamara) youngest were in the boat. To be able to be in the boat with them and to steer them to the win was a father’s and coach’s dream.
One of my more memorable experiences---that’s a tough one—I have a lot!! I guess it would be in '97 when we won our first 500 meter World Title in Hong Kong. It was a great team and all but 2 guys from Philly. We took a starting 40 and when we hit our settle – it was perfect!! The boat just took off. Hearing Joyce, our drummer, asking for seats and being able to pull away still gives me goose bumps just thinking about it. But the one in response to your next question is right up there as well.
How do you find coaching compared to participating as a paddler? Do you do both equally?
I primarily coached the Youth team and fortunately I got to coach and participate at the same time since I would steer the Youth team in their races. Seeing a team come together is very rewarding. I would mike myself up for the races and enjoy the time on the water with them. The Under 16 Mixed final in Prague (2009) was an experience I’ll never forget. We beat an excellent Canadian team by a few feet and to see the kids’ reactions was priceless—both my son and Bob’s (McNamara) youngest were in the boat. To be able to be in the boat with them and to steer them to the win was a father’s and coach’s dream.
What are your future goals in the sport?
I’m 54 and the injuries have been adding up. I just hope to remain competitive and God willing, stay healthy enough to kick that other boat’s butt at practice!
Pete is a dragon boat coach and paddler as well as a rower. He participates on Team USA as part of the team and the coaching staff. Professionally, Pete is an attorney with offices in Philadelphia, PA.
I’m 54 and the injuries have been adding up. I just hope to remain competitive and God willing, stay healthy enough to kick that other boat’s butt at practice!
Pete is a dragon boat coach and paddler as well as a rower. He participates on Team USA as part of the team and the coaching staff. Professionally, Pete is an attorney with offices in Philadelphia, PA.
Pete (near) racing against his brother, Bob in Philadelphia at the Independence Regatta to raise funds for the Philadelphia Dragon Boat Association.
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Pete (left of trophy) and brother Bob (right of trophy) with their kids at the 2011 IDBF World Championships receiving the Nations Cup!
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