Good morning college. My name is Vanessa and I stand before you today with a medal that we won during the recently concluded SDBF. However, this medal, contrary to what most might think, is NOT what NJCanoeing about. Many perceive us as the winning team, but to us, winning isn't everything. As my time in the team is approaching its end, I look back and realise that it's not the titles that I'm going to remember, but the friendship. During SDBF, our girls team was separated into Boats A and B, while some rowed for the mixed and alumni boats respectively. Although we were split on paper, we knew in our hearts that we were ONE girls team. Through that particular race, and during the course of the 2 years in the team, I've learnt how to turn pain into joy, by rowing for people who have made a difference in my life. Whenever I feel like giving up, I look to the rest of the team and the coaches, and row for them. That's what we're about. We row not for ourselves, but instead we draw strength from the spirit and passion that is all around us. As a team, the tears, the conflicts, the vendettas, we've seen it all, but it is through overcoming these setbacks together that we become the team we are today. The 60 people in the team have been my solace. Nothing could ever prepare me for this fantastic experience, letting me realise what true courage, teamwork and selflessness is all about. Despite the arduous training, the physical and mental fatigue, I'm sure everyone would agree that these 2 years have been most fruitful. Not because we've won x number of medals, not because we're better canoeists, but because we're better people.
On behalf of the team, I'd like to take the opportunity to thank Mr Yong, Mr Low Kwee Peng, Mr Adrian Low and Ms Jacintha Lim for their unwavering support. Without them, the team would be nothing. Now, as I think of our motto "Heart and Soul, Go the Distance", I realise that it's not only applicable to us, but to every one of you standing down there. Give the best in everything you do, go the distance in making a difference.. these are values that I'll carry with me even as I leave the team. Once an NJCanoeist, always an NJCanoeist. Thank you.
Tomorrow's the speech, and I'm a little jittery. Hope my voice turns out ok tomorrow. Sore throat just won't go away :(
Glad you called last night to apologise. I believe it really made a difference. Thank you.
Vanessa Lim 1:49 p. m.
