“No such thing,” Brad retorted.
Mr. Hatfield, Mr. Holloway and the leaders of Den 1 consulted over the advisability of holding the race that day. Feeling was running a bit too high, they knew. But then, there always had been keen rivalry between the two dens.
The race itself was a very short one, not long enough to place any of the contestants under strain.
“We’ll go ahead now since you’re all so eager,” Mr. Hatfield finally announced. “But remember, this is a friendly competition. How you win is more important than who wins.”
All the Cubs and their parents gathered at the beach to watch the event. Fred and Midge willingly relinquished their paddles to Brad and Dan.
“Win that plaque for us!” Fred urged as the pair took their places in the canoe.
“We’ll sure try!” Dan promised with a grin.
At a given signal, the two canoes were off! Ross and Donald made a flashy start, immediately taking the lead.
Flustered by being caught off guard, Brad and Dan did not at once coordinate their efforts. By the time they began to work as a unit, Ross and Donald already had gained an alarming lead.
“Dig in, Dan!” Brad urged, increasing his own efforts.