Rowing Ruataniwha

Thunderous silence in fresh mountain air Dragonflies land on a mirrored flat lake. A trout breaks the surface with but a swirl Hushed morning stopping to rolling vast cheer. Eight boats of rowers united in curl Sixty-four faces combined in their ache Coxswains urging each stroke with due care. Rugged peaks fix firm gaze from up high Each ridge a crease on a wrinkled old face. Colours camouflaged by tussock and screes Against this grave setting boats do defy. Medleys on shore of blushing marquees Supporting calls surge the rowers fast pace Crews each pushing for all others to deny. Canada geese carve the sky in their vee Graceful wings scooped as they slowly descend. Almost merging in the landscape behind Splashes blend as birds land and oars break free. Rowers increase their methodical grind While a grand race is nearing its end Sounds swell as crowds heighten their pleas. Symbols of an intolerant harsh soil Grey terraces flank the edge of the lake. Head down merino ewes quest for their feed Rowers and sheep joint in differing toil. Leading boats lunge forward as though freed Far behind peace returns in their wake And the triumphant finally uncoil. 20th January 2016