Parkes Dragon Boat Club Incorporated

THE SPORT: Dragon Boating is a fabulous sport because it caters for all ages (from 11) and all levels of fitness and ability. It is great for teens to young adults, and is a sport that the whole family can do together! Even grandmas and grandpas dragon boat. It generates fun and friendship. It is flexible in commitment level, as members can paddle once in a while just for fun, or they can commit to any level from local regional regattas to international championships. It is great fun.

COME-AND-TRY: Newcomers are always welcome to come and have a go. And it’s free! You will be required to sign a waiver form. After 5 come-and-tries you will be asked to join as a member and pay membership to continue paddling.

WHAT TO WEAR: Sports clothes for easy movement; a cap; closed-in shoes are a must - old joggers or water shoes (just in case your feet get wet); sunscreen; a life jacket (your own or one of ours). And bring a water bottle.

SAFETY IN THE BOAT: Always listen to the sweep (the steers-person at the back of the boat) who is in charge of the boat. The coach or the drummer may give instructions, but the sweep’s commands overrule. The person beside you in the boat is your buddy. Always watch out for the safety and well-being of your buddy. If you are new to paddling you are encouraged to stop and rest whenever you would like to (but remember to pull your paddle in and keep your elbow inside the boat so the paddler behind doesn’t whack you with their paddle).

SWEEP’S COMMANDS: Some common commands you will hear - ‘Paddles Up’ means paddles in position ready to paddle. ‘Paddles Flat’ is to hold the paddle outwards with blade on the water. ‘Stop the Boat’ is holding paddles fully in the water close to the side of the boat. ‘Paddles Back’ means paddles behind you, ready to paddle in reverse. ‘Let it Run’ is to stop paddling and let the paddles rest on the gunwale. The last being a very welcome and awaited command at the end of a strenuous session.

Accepts NSW Active Kids Vouchers