We hosted the Takajo Tennis Invitational and Sailing Regatta today— two events that have been staples in our program dating back to the start of our camp in 1947. There was a strong breeze coming across Long Lake which created an ideal setting for our sailors.
After a hearty breakfast, our boys made their way down to the beach to greet their competitors and prepare for their races. Our sailing counselors worked hard to train our boys and were, perhaps, more nervous than our campers. The course was ready, the sails were set, and our boats glided across the lake at astonishing speeds. Aside from a slight mishap when our three-man hunter speared our pontoon boat, our boys sailed flawlessly. When the meet came to an end, our boys were victorious and all their hard work was rewarded.
We welcomed many camps to participate in our Tennis Invitational. All seventeen courts were in use throughout the day. Our tennis director, Steve Olivas, gave our boys a pep talk and encouraged them to remain hydrated and play every point with focus and grit. After a full day of grueling competition, we fell short by two points. It’s sometimes hard to find the words to motivate athletes after a long day of competition when they come up just a little short, but learning how to handle defeat and disappointment with grace and humility is part of what we learn at camp.
There was a lot more going on today as our 12-and-under basketball team hosted three other camps in a tournament. Our 12-year-olds have been playing together at Takajo since they were little boys in Warrior Camp. One can feel their confidence as they step on the court, standing shoulder to shoulder, ready to take on all competitors. As our bleachers filled with campers and counselors cheering, our team swept their competitors and played with incredible passion.
After a full day of competition, our 13- and 14-year-old boys hit the showers for some evening socials. Our thirteen-year-olds made their way to Camp Vega for a dinner dance while our fourteen-year-olds participated in a co-ed mixer that included many of the girls’ and boys’ camps in Maine. Over fifteen camps participated in this event, allowing our boys to mingle with girls from multiple camps and get to know some of the guys they compete with throughout the summer.
As nightfall came, we kept the shutters down and the fans on high. We still have a few more days of the warm, humid weather and are staying rested and hydrated.
