Frequently Asked Questions
Can I participate if I’m not with a team or organized group?
Maybe – We will try to accommodate individuals who are not with a team or group but would like to participate in racing. We will take your name, ask you to make a $100 deposit and we will try to form a dragon boat team for you with others not with a team. If we are unable to get you on a team, we will notify you before the Festival and refund your deposit. Email Pat at panderson@LRCSupportTeam.org
What is the minimum age to participate?
12 years of age. People less than 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
How many people do we need for a team and can we change who is paddling on our team for a race?
A team consists of 16 paddlers, 1 drummer, and a steersperson. (If your team does not have an experienced steersperson, we will provide one.) We recommend having a team roster of between 18-20 individuals, just in case there are any last minute changes in your team.
If an individual is listed on the team roster submitted, you can change who is paddling in any given race. You may not add individuals to your roster once it has been submitted.
Who is running the race competition?
22Dragons, a company from Montreal, Canada provides the boats, all the necessary paddling, and safety equipment and will run the practices and the races. They are one of Canada’s largest dragon boat racing clubs, and with 22Dragons USA Inc, North America’s leading dragon boat racing event service providers. Click here to visit their website.
Who do we race against?
You will race against other teams based on the division you registered for – sports teams will race against sports teams, community boats will race against community boats, etc. Each boat group will have an overall Dragon Boat Festival (DBF) champion!
How long is the racecourse?
The racecourse will be approximately 200 meters (about two football fields) in length. It will take about one to two minutes to complete a race.
Will we have a chance to practice paddling and working as a team with a dragon boat?
Yes! If your team does not paddle a dragon boat regularly, your team can participate in a racing “how-to” seminar and up to one hour of practice during the week of the Festival with a 22Dragons Coach. Your Team Captain will be informed of your practice’s date and time (which will be an evening time the week before the Festival) after you register.You should try to have all your team members attend.
Who steers the boat?
Good question – Teams do not need to worry about steering. Unless you have a very experienced steersperson a 22Dragons Staff Member will be on each racing boat to do the steering. Your team will handle the paddling and drumming!
How many times do we race?
Each team will race a minimum of three (3) times.
How long is the racing day?
The racing will take place from 8 am to approximately 1 pm. There will be a late-morning break.
Will there be food and beverages available?
Food and drinks can be purchased from the NASWA Resort. Teams are welcome to bring pop-up tents, blankets, and chairs to make themselves comfortable! Please refrain from guests bringing food as the spectator area will have food and beverages available.
Is there parking?
Yes. Off-site parking is available at the Weirs Community Center (WCS). Bar Hoppa will provide shuttle service from WCS to the Naswa.
Where is a good place to stay overnight?
The NASWA Resort is offering 15% off for 2 night stay with code DRAGON. Call for reservations 888-55-NASWA and tell them you are with the Dragon Boat Festival.
If you have other questions, please contact Pat (603) 387-6775 panderson@LRCSupportTeam.org
