NEW PADDLER

Come see what all the fuss is about! Our coaches will give you a crash course in proper paddling, then put you on a boat to learn timing and technique while paddling with the team.

Practices
Open practices are usually held Wednesdays from 6:00-7:30 PM and Saturdays from 8:00-9:30 AM, but check our website or TeamSnap calendars to confirm. Race Practices are more intense and are held Mondays from 6:00-7:30 PM. Permission from coaching staff should be obtained before attending Race Practices.

How do I sign up?
Sign up on Team Snap for an open practice. (If you don't have a Team Snap account, head to the Contact Us page to request one) Someone from our membership committee will be available to answer any questions that you might have and introduce you to other team members. You also need to complete the Vaccination, Waiver, and Paddling Fee requirements listed further down this page.

What should I wear?
Dragon boating is a water sport, so wear clothes that you don’t mind getting wet. Chances are, you won’t get soaked (BDBC has never flipped a boat—and doesn’t plan to), but paddling can be splashy.
A few tips:
• Wicking fabrics dry faster
• Any footwear is fine (including bare feet), but sneakers can get soggy pretty quick
• Gloves can prevent blisters while paddling
• A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are handy

What equipment should I bring?
Life jackets and paddles are provided. If you bring your own life jacket, it must be U.S. Coast Guard approved. The dragon boat seats are solid wood, so we recommend a cushion to prevent soreness (affectionately called “dragon ass”). A gardening knee pad, a folded towel, or rolled-up bath mat are good cushions.
Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.
You can store keys in our secure, waterproof bag. Everything else is best left in your car, or safely stowed in a locker in the UA Performance Center.

Waiver

Everyone that paddles with us is required to complete our club waiver, which you can find here. Please submit the waiver prior to coming to your first practice.

Paddling Fees

For each practice, pay $10 or $150 for the whole season. If you join after June 30, membership costs only $75. Please pay the day before you come to practice. Paddling fees may be paid in our Square store here.