Dragon Boat Introduction Course

WORDS: ALAN CHAN | IMAGES: WALLIS CHAN

he Dragon Boat Introduction Course is a four-week course that allows for first time dragon boaters to learn the proper techniques of paddling and gives a glimpse of what it takes to be part of the team and compete in dragon boat races.

The first session is a theory session in a classroom with an introduction of the Yacht Club. This session provided insight of the club and what to prepare for in the upcoming weeks before we get on the water and start paddling! We were also introduced to the technical aspects of the dragon boat stroke and the “dos and don’ts” before stepping into the boat.

From the second session onwards, it was live action in the water where we put what we learned in the classroom into action. The second session was more instructive as it gave us a chance to get a feel of being in the water and applying the paddling techniques we learned. The coaches were continuously helping us fine tune our paddling technique and teaching us how to work as one boat. In the final two sessions, it was intensive training sessions where we simulated racing situations and also learned what to do in the event of a capsizing.

Overall, the Introduction Course will give you a good understanding of dragon boating and what it takes to be part of the dragon boat team in the Club. If you want to continue to build up your experience and skills with dragon boat paddling, you can join the Dragon Boat Development Course which will give access to the boats and training sessions as a non-member of the Club.