New Member FAQ
Do I need to be athletic?
- Not neccessarily, just have a desire to give paddling a try.
Do I need to know how to swim?
- No, We are required to have a life preserver for each person in the boat.
How many practices per week?
- We have 2 practices a week in the Season from March-Oct. and 1 per week from Nov- Feb. Our practices are usually 1-1/2 hours long.
- We practice on Wed evenings and then on alternating Sat or Sun mornings. [The winter practices are the weekend ones.]
What do I wear ?
- You WILL get splashed, so wear comfortable clothes, water shoes/sneakers/sandals, and hat/cap.
Do I need to bring any equipment?
- We will provide a paddle and life preserver for you to use at practice and at races.
- You should bring plenty of water/sports drink and sunscreen/protective clothing.
- Sunglasses help protect your eyes from the reflected sun and salt water splashes.
- Many of us bring garden kneeling pads to sit on - the benches are wooden and can get uncomfortable after a while.
Is there a membership fee?
- No, we do not have a membership fee, however there may be some cost incurred registration fees and travel expenses for out of town races.
- Eventually, you may want to buy your own paddle, pfd, padded shorts, etc.
Do I need a medical release form to participate?
- Yes, you must provide a medical release form signed by your physician (doesn't have to be an oncologist) and verifying that you are approved to participate in this kind of physical activity. You can download it here.
How strenuous in dragon boat paddling?
- For a good view of what it's all about please view the "Pink Dragon Ladies" documentary on our website's home page - but remember, we all started out with no experience!
Don't put it off any longer. Come out and join us for some sun and fun. If you give us your address and telephone # we will find a team member in your neighborhood to pick you up and bring you to a practice.