18/06/2026

LYFE THURSDAY | JUNE 18, 2026

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Working out amid nature

Away from the city’s traffic and concrete skyline, dragon boating offers a rare chance to slow down and reconnect with nature. – HANDOUT PIC

Through annual training structure, regular paddlers effectively pay around RM12.50 per session, making it one of the more affordable organised sports options available. The pricing model reflects the team’s broader philosophy that access should not be determined solely by financial resources. remains central to Rogue Malaya’s identity, the team also maintains a competitive side. With a current roster of just over 20 paddlers, the club is undergoing a rebuilding phase focused on refining technique and strengthening overall performance. “We’ve spent much of the year focusing on improving the technical foundations of each paddler because we want to build a stronger team for the future,” the coach said. Their next major test will come at an upcoming competition in Malacca, where months of training will finally be put into practice. While the atmosphere during training is generally relaxed and supportive, race days bring a very different energy. “There is always a calm atmosphere before races, but the moment people get into their race lineup, it’s game on and everybody becomes fiercely competitive,” he said. That balance between community and competition has become a defining characteristic of the team. Members are encouraged to improve and its Rebuilding for future Although inclusivity

challenge themselves without losing sight of the camaraderie that initially drew them to the sport.

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Samsung QLED Q5F Smart TV Features: Real QLED technology, Object Tracking Sound Lite audio system, Samsung Knox Security, One UI Tizen operating system, available in 43-inch and 40-inch options Price: RM1,299–RM1,399 A smart and accessible addition designed to elevate everyday viewing experiences and built with Samsung’s latest innovations, the Q5F brings together vibrant picture quality, immersive sound and enhanced security delivering a seamless all-in-one entertainment solution for modern homes. More than a race The Dragon Boat Festival takes place tomorrow. Dragon boating traces its origins to ancient China and is traditionally associated with the story of poet Qu Yuan. Today, however, many participants are drawn to the sport for reasons that extend far beyond its cultural roots. For the coach, the journey began almost accidentally in 2012. He recalled agreeing to attend an early morning training session despite spending the previous night out with friends. “I remember looking at the clock at around two in the morning and realising we had to be at Marina Putrajaya by seven, so we went home, showered and drove to the training camp barely slept,” he said. That first session led to his first competition later the same year and eventually a long-term commitment to the sport. More than a decade later, he continues to advocate for dragon boating as one of the most beginner friendly team sports available. “It’s a sport that people can pick up relatively quickly and if you enjoy team environments, there’s a good chance you’ll enjoy being on a dragon boat,” he said. Finding rhythm in nature Beyond the fitness benefits and competitive opportunities, many paddlers find themselves returning for a less tangible reason. Training takes place outdoors, often against the backdrop of lakes, greenery and open skies – a

unfamiliar, discover new strengths and become part of a community that moves together in rhythm. And for many first-time paddlers, all it takes is a single session before curiosity turns into commitment, often before they even realise they are already halfway into the boat.

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stark contrast to the enclosed environments of gyms and fitness studios. The coach believes that connection to nature is one of the sport’s most underrated qualities. “You eventually forget that you’re exercising because you’re out on the

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