Blue Crew Athlete of the Month: Allan Shek

February 2016

Allan has just started his M.Eng, having graduated CIV 1T4 + PEY. As a veteran of the team and with his goal to make the U24 National team, Allan has been training extremely hard, hitting the gym and paddling on the erg multiple times per week.

How long have you been dragon boating and what do you like most about Iron Dragons?

This year will be my 3rd season, all with Iron Dragons. ID has been the best dragon boat team I have ever been on! I think ID has the most dedicated, organized, and hardworking group of managers/coaches, allowing us to be the fastest university club around. We might not have the beefiest athletes but intelligent training programs and emphasis on efficient technique really sets us apart.

What’s your favourite memory as a part of ID?

Last season at Toronto Island, when our open crew was competing against grown-ass men and actually beating some of them to get 3rd place in the 200m (and being only about 0.02 from 3rd place in the 500m, too).

Who or what inspires you the most to go to the gym and improve?

The main thing driving me right now is my goal of getting one of the two over-age spots on the U24 national team next year. I really want to wear some super tight pants with “Canada” written on them 🙂

What’s your favourite part about training at Afterburn?

My favourite part is paddling in their pool with realistic dragon boat seats and moving water. And eating/hanging out with everyone afterwards!

What other sports do you enjoy? What are your hobbies?

Basketball, Volleyball, Ultimate, Cycling, Eating

Left side or right side?

How can you not know what side I am?? :’(
(left)

What are you most looking forward to this season?

Winning 🙂