For many people who've never played a team sport, or who miss the camaraderie a team experience can bring, dragon boating can be a welcome revelation. Add to that the improved fitness, strength and flexibility paddlers of all ages enjoy, and it's no wonder this sport enjoys such a passionate following on Vancouver Island.
If you've never raised a paddle, the Fairway Gorge Paddling Club in Victoria invites you to come test the waters for free Saturday, July 27. Running from 1 to 3 p.m., the dragon boat open house is an opportunity for those new to the sport to experience the fun and physical benefits of dragon boat paddling.
A social, team sport, dragon boating boasts a low barrier to entry – you don't need any special equipment or previous skills, and you develop and see progress in a short time, notes club general manager Erik Ages, who coaches both recreational and competitive paddlers ranging from those in their 20s to their 80s.
The sport also offers significant physical benefits – not to mention the joy of being on the water in a beautiful setting. "People who discover a program like dragon boating – an all-body, comprehensive workout – find they're better at getting out of a chair, at walking up stairs and getting out of a car," Ages says. "It catches them by surprise that dragon boating once or twice a week has such a marked impact in the full 360 degrees of their life."
The club's boats are designed and built right here on Vancouver Island in Sidney, which means they're designed for west coast waters, so they don't tip and they don't sink, Ages says.
And don't worry about your ability to keep up, if you've been away from fitness for a while, he emphasizes. "Novice paddlers often take breaks. One of the great benefits of being with a group is that you can take a rest, then join back in."
Paddles up!
Join the open house at the paddling club, 115 – 2940 Jutland Rd. (next to Glo restaurant, on the water side of the building). It's free to participate – all are welcome (ages six and older) and no experience is needed, however those age 18 and younger will need to participate with an adult.
Simply wear comfortable clothing – anything you'd wear for outdoor activity that you don't mind getting a few splashes on – and to help keep things running smoothly, complete the registration and waver forms here (each person attending should complete a separate submission.)
All other necessary equipment, including paddle and PFD (life jacket) is provided.
Expect to be on the water for about 20 minutes while coaches run you through the basics of dragon boating.
For people brand new to paddling, the session is a great opportunity to test the waters before registering for a “Greenhorn Dragon Boat” program, which trains on weekends and “graduates” at one of FGPC’s dragon boat races, the club notes.
For more information, visit fgpaddle.com, email info@fgpaddle.com or call 778-432-3472. Paddles up!