Dragon boats paddle for a cause

BALTIMORE (WMAR) - Armed with paddles and  life vests these boaters were on a mission.

No time for a quiet relaxing sail or a ride on the water taxi, they were hitting the water to work.

"If you hear me say you have alignment I would get ready," says Dave Borowski with Harkins Builders.

They've been getting ready since July, but two days from now the Catholic Charities Dragon Boat races 2012 will paddle through the Harbor at lightning speed.

“We won twice back in 2002 and we're looking to get back in the winner’s circle," said Borkowski.

Borkowski's team Harkins Builders is a platinum sponsor they've supported Catholic Charities since the very first Dragon Boat race in 1998.

"We can't say no to Catholic charities and its a blast you work very hard out here," says Borkowski.

Each corporate sponsor partners with one of the Charities clients Harkins supports with Villa Maria Schools.

"It partners our corporate supporters with our programs  and not only provides direct financial benefit for the agency and partners but it really allows our partners to understand the needs of our clients," said Bill McCarthy with Catholic Charities.

This year there are 8 boats, 36 teams.  While the sponsors give, they also get something back in return.

"It's a chance for companies to come together so it’s the ultimate team work event because every paddler is supposed to hit the water at the exact same time in order to be competitive," said McCarthy.

"It's been a great opportunity it’s been a great team building experience," says participant Mary pat Smith with the Allegis Group.

This is the second race for the Allegis group.  The staffing company is partnered with a temporary and transitional housing center in Anne Arundel county.

"It just feels good to be able to help them and everything that we make all the donations go directly to Sarah's House.  It's just great to be able to give back to the community," says Smith.

As the sunset brings their final practice to a close they'll be prepared to paddle come Saturday.

"There are no losers on race day.  Catholic charities wins, the partner programs win," said Smith.