Hitching their dragon to a star

EGYPT LAKE - Starting a dragon boat team is just the first step in Christopher Man-Son-Hing's ultimate plan.

The second part is for the Man-Son-Hing Lady Dragon boat team to make it to the 2011 championship.

"I want to prove that you don't need someone big and bad in a boat," Man-Son-Hing said. "You can put anyone from all walks of life, train together and make it."

While working for the Tampa Police Department several years ago, Man-Son-Hing got a taste of what it was like to participate in the sport. Needless to say he fell in love with it.

Dragon boating, which originated in China, consists of a boat with 20 paddlers, a drummer and a steer person working in synchronization while racing against other boats. The Tampa Bay International Dragon Boat Races take place May 2 at Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel & Marina.

Man-Son-Hing was determined that one day he would start his own team. And with the help of his academy, Man-Son-Hing Martial Arts Academy, he got a group of about 30 started this year.

Janise Man-Son-Hing, Christopher's wife, said they e-mailed friends, academy members and through word-of-mouth many decided to sign up.

The all-female team trains twice a week and then practices using a borrowed boat during the weekends.

"I wanted something I can commit myself to and by being on a team I am more committed," said Stephanie Collore-Coates, a South Tampa resident and Realtor.

The couple said many of the members haven't participated in team sport before and many have families, jobs and other commitments.

"It would be amazing for some of these women who have never had a team success," Janise said. "You don't have to be a stick figure or superwoman. If you train and work hard you can make it."

With practice and training under way, Christopher said there is one remaining piece - sponsorships.

Man-Son-Hing said the team is working toward having its own equipment. All the team has so far is shirts. At some point the team will need paddles, lifejackets and a boat.

"It's a good bonding experience," said Tonya Oliver, an Odessa resident. "We all come from different places and then work as a team."

TO HELP OUT OR JOIN

Contact Janise or Christopher Man-Son-Hing at (813) 936-5425 or visit www.mshmartialarts.com.