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Each year the FVDBC gets a huge amount of emails and phone calls asking about dragon boating. Most of the emails are of the same nature. I have included the a copy of our reply letter and a list of question and answers to hopefully answer any questions you might have in regards to dragon boating on Harrison Lake. Please read through it and don;t hesitate to contact us if you still need more answers. We are here to help.
Thank you for the email. I am glad to hear you are interested in Dragon Boating. The Fraser Valley Dragon Boat Club is currently made up of four mixed teams (women and men of all ages 19 to 99) and our Junior Team (13 to 18). Our club is also looking to expand by starting a new mixed, Ladies Only and Senior's team. Our season starts in Mid March and runs through to the end of September. The first few months are used to teach our new paddlers the different strokes and techniques as well as coach our returning paddlers. As a new paddler, you will learn a new language (well a few new words anyway), meet some incredible people and get in shape all at the same time. Our teams compete in regattas throughout the year and which regattas you attend will depend on the team you are on. Regattas are held all over BC including: Richmond, Vancouver, Kelowna, Port Moody, Victoria, Nanaimo and Seattle to name a few. Our club also hosts a regatta in July in Harrison Hot Springs.
All the teams practice on Harrison Lake in Harrison Hot Springs. All teams practice at least once a week with some practicing twice weekly. These practices range between 1 1/2 to 3 hours in length depending on the team. Dates and times for practices are usually determined at the start of the year. We hold a free open paddle every year to allow perspective new paddlers a chance to come out and try dragon boating first hand before deciding on a team. This gives new paddlers a chance to talk with the different teams and their members and get a better idea on what is required and which team will meet their needs.
Our open paddle for this year is Saturday April 10th from 10:00am to 2:00pm. This open paddle will be held on the main beach in Harrison Hot Springs (located closer to the Hotel and Spa) rain or shine (or snow). There will be a small on land session which will include a meet and greet, some basic stroke techniques and coaching and then into the boats and away we go. If you are interested please dress for the weather. We recommend layers (shirt, sweater, jacket) and an old pair of shoes. As it is a water sport, you might get a little wet. If you have neoprene gloves please bring those as well. We will have representatives from all five teams on hand to answer any questions you might have. If the weather keeps you from attending the event please contact me again and I will arrange for you to come out with one of our teams so you can get a feel for what dragon boating is all about.
Thank you again for your interest in dragon boating. I do hope to see you on the water with us.
What is Dragon Boating?
Dragon Boating is the fastest growing water sport in the world. Equipped with 20 paddlers, a steers person and a drummer, the Dragon Boats are raced along a 500 meter course. It is the most exciting 2 1/2 minutes you can have in a boat.
Don't I have To Be In Shape To Dragon Boat?
Round is a shape. If you have the desire, heart and willpower, we can get you paddling. Paddling is a fun, addicting sport that is for everyone. We like people of all shapes and sizes.
Isn't Dragon Boating Just For Women?
Not at all. Though there are "women's only teams", all the teams from the Fraser Valley Dragon Boat Club are mixed. We encourage families, husbands and wives or just about anyone to come out and join.
What equipment do I need?
All initial equipment is provided by the Fraser Valley Dragon Boat Club. The club supplies the boats, paddles and PFD (life jackets). As with any sport you can purchase your own gear to suit your needs. Costs vary depending upon equipment purchased.
Can I Try Before I Buy?
Yes you can. In fact we encourage potential paddlers to try it a few times before committing. With four teams to choose from, your options are limitless. Come out and try it.
The Fraser Valley Dragon Boat Club is always looking to promote and grow the sport of Dragon Boating. If you are interested in trying Dragon Boating, please give us a call, drop us an email or just show up. We have four teams in the club that practice one or two days a week which means the boats are always on the water.
If you still have questions and need more information please see click here to contact our captains.
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