Dragon Boating
What is it?
A great inclusive sport for teamwork and friendship.
Originating in China over 2000 years ago, this paddling sport became international in 1976. Overseas crews were invited, for the first time, to race in the traditional Hong Kong Festival Races. Today, over 75 countries have registered with the International Dragon Boat Federation, the sport’s governing body.
How does it work?
Boats are crewed by up to 20 paddlers sitting in pairs on low benches. A drummer sits at the front facing the paddlers and works with the front two paddlers (strokes) to set the rhythm. A helm at the back steers.
See the Purple Warriors movie below
Racing
Races range from 200m sprints taking about 1 min to 2000m pursuits taking about 12mins.
Races are categorised by age and gender and recently a paradragons category was added to the Club Crew World Championships
Together as one
Although mentally and physically impaired, Purple Warriors compete in the open category against all comers. We ask for no concessions on the water. Age, gender, and disability count for nothing when we compete.
