a flattering tally?

number of previous CSSRA regattas attended as a coach: 0

number of high school girls i'm in charge of: 6

getting mistaken for a high school rower not once, but twice: priceless.

the conversation goes something like this:

the first time:

lady at the admission gate: i'm sorry, but we can't let you through the gate without a wristband

me: i'm with the kingston rowing club/holy cross secondary school. (said while carrying all necessary coaching paraphernalia including a cox box and a binder full of official looking paper, including race plans).

lady: it doesn't matter. you don't have a wristband. look sweetheart, why don't i call your coach and she can come and identify you. do you have your school ID?

me: (angry, but somewhat amused): i'm not a competitor ... I'M A COACH.

the second time:

lady at the cash at regatta sport, pointing to the weight stamp (64kg) on emily's arm: so why don't you have a stamp on your arm?

me: because i'm the coach.

seriously, folks. i put on make up this morning and everything.