- Part of a larger Chinese cultural tradition that goes back 2,400 years
- Began in South East China as a fertility rite to avert misfortune and bring rain by worshipping the dragon
- A dragon boat is a slim 44’ racer with a dragon’s head at the bow and a tail at the stern
- Each dragon boat holds 22 athletes including 20 paddlers, 1 drummer and 1 steersperson
- Over 200 teams participate in competitive, corporate, and community groups
- New race every 9 minutes
- Approximately 5,000 paddlers
- Paddlers participate in dragon boat clubs across Canada and the U.S.
I went along for a couple of practice/coaching sessions, was given a paddle and a lifevest, and had great fun. The event was held in Mooney's Bay on the Rideau River on Saturday 22nd, and it had free concerts and entertainment, the rain held off during the day. There were wittily-named teams (Blades of Glory, Dirty Oars) and lots of competitive souls. Our team came last!
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| Jane, me and Guylaine |
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| Ottawa Outdoor Club - waiting for 'staging' |
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