The shores of Lake Superior were buzzing with excitement this past weekend as the annual Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival (LSDBF) took place.
Organized by the Rotary Club of Superior, the festival brought together teams from all walks of life to participate in a day of camaraderie, competition, and community support. The Exodus Global Gliders, making their second appearance, were a spirited group made up of employees, family members, and friends of Exodus Global, who not only showcased their paddling powers but also demonstrated their dedication to giving back.
Celebrating its rich history since its inception in 2002, the Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival has become a staple in the Twin Ports area.
This event is more than just a competition – it’s a celebration of community, teamwork, and the spirit of giving. The festival has raised over $1.3 million to support various charitable organizations in the Twin Ports, embodying the values of Rotary International by fostering goodwill, promoting integrity, and making a positive impact on the lives of many.
The Exodus Global Gliders entered the festival with high spirits and a shared determination to make their mark on the water.
Comprising of employees, family members, and friends associated with Exodus Global, the team brought a sense of unity that translated into their impressive performance throughout the event. In a field of 51 teams, the Exodus Global Gliders clinched an admirable 14th place overall – a testament to their hard work and dedication to the cause.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Exodus Global Gliders’ was their remarkable improvement from heat one to heat two. Demonstrating their unwavering commitment to excellence, the team shaved an impressive 4 seconds off their time, securing them the second position for the most improved team.
However, their achievements didn’t stop at the finish line. The Exodus Global Gliders made a substantial impact off the water as well by embarking on a fundraising initiative that truly set them apart. As of the event weekend, the team had raised an impressive $2920, a testament to their passion and dedication to the cause. What’s more, the commitment of Exodus Global to make a difference was further highlighted as they announced their decision to match the funds raised by the team. This generous move propels the Exodus Global Gliders well above their initial $5000 goal, showcasing their capacity to not only paddle effectively but to rally support and contribute to a greater cause.
In the spirit of giving, the Exodus Global Gliders also secured a commendable 2nd place in fundraising efforts.
Their passion for making a positive impact was palpable throughout the event, motivating both team members and the larger community to join hands in support of a noble cause.
Beyond the thrill of the competition and the joy of community involvement, the Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival serves a greater purpose. The funds raised through the event support the 23rd Veteran program, which is dedicated to helping military and veterans who are living with trauma. Their innovative 14-week mental health program has proven to be a life-changing experience for veterans struggling with isolation, anxiety, panic, and depression. By addressing negative triggers from military experiences and transforming them into positive memories and emotions, this program offers hope and healing to those who have served our country.
As the waves settled and the cheers faded, the Exodus Global Gliders emerged from the Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival not only as a competitive team but also as a symbol of unity, resilience, and compassion. Their remarkable journey, from improving race times to raising significant funds for a worthy cause, stands as a shining example of how individuals can come together to create meaningful change. In the heart of the Twin Ports community, the impact of the Exodus Global Gliders will continue to be felt, resonating far beyond the shores of Lake Superior.
Founded in 2008, Exodus Global is a leading manufacturer and distributor of products for the construction, demolition, and recycling industries under the brands ShearCore, BladeCore, Connect Work Tools, OilQuick Americas, and now RockZone Americas. Operating out of facilities in Superior, WI, Cleburne, TX, and Bellefonte, PA, Exodus Global is one of the most respected and fastest growing hydraulic attachment suppliers in North America.
At Exodus Global, our core focus is creating a positive impact on our company, communities, and industries we serve. We achieve this through our core values: “caring” – for customers, the company, and each other; an “on it” attitude – working hard, communicating effectively, and being thorough; “always do the right thing”, with unwavering integrity even when it’s difficult, and prioritizing safety; and “fun”, fostering a spirit of enjoying work and making a positive impact on all we serve.
