Dragon boat racing can be thrilling, and participation in national events is strongly encouraged. We travel around the country, as well as hosting our own event in Nottingham.
There are several categories of racing. Crew sizes are between 10 and 20 for each category.
Dependent on crew availability we race as:
• Open: any number of paddlers of any gender
• Mixed: At least half the paddlers must be women
• Womens: all crew must be women
• Mens: all crew must be men
Mostly at our league events and friendlies you can expect:
• 200m mixed and open S20
• 200m womens – S14
• 200m mens – S14
• 500m mixed and open S20
• 2k pursuit – mixed and open S20
Competing in races is not compulsory, but it is fun, and most new paddlers are ready to give it a go within a few weeks. Where race places are restricted, selection criteria, as directed by the coaching team, will include:
• Ability
• Attendance
• Experience
• Technique
National league and other events
The British Dragon Boat Racing Association oversee several National League events a year. We aim to enter teams in as many as possible, as well as hosting one right here on the Trent.
The biggest event of the season is The National Finals, which take place over two days in September at Holme Pierrepont National Watersports Centre.
Some clubs host additional events, with longer endurance events being particularly popular to keep warm in the winter months.
See where other British Dragon Boat Racing Association clubs are based on our map.
National teams
The British National Training Squad host ‘boot camps’ for club members considering trying out for the national teams.
The national teams are:
• Premier ‘the prems’ – all ages
• Senior A 40 years plus
• Senior B 50 years plus
• Senior C 60 years plus
• Junior (12 -18)
Other groups
Dragon boat paddling is considered suitable for some injury rehabilitation and for mental wellness. There are a small number of specialist teams, which can be joined in addition to a local team. More information on some of these teams can be found at:
• Para athletes
• Breast cancer paddlers