What is the difference between dragon boating and rowing?

 

Even though both are water sports, they come from different traditional backgrounds. Rowing has its history in the West, while dragon boating is based on traditions from the East. Rowers sit in single file in boats referred to as 'shells' with their backs to the direction of travel and row with two oars. Dragon boaters sit in two rows of 10 and face forward using paddles on one side of the boat to propel it forward. After all we are all looking forward now not backwards in our survivorship. 

 

How can I find out more about dragon boating and/or sign up for a practice?

 

The best way to find out more is to come to a practice and see firsthand what it's all about. If you are interested in joining a practice, send us an email at info@paddleswithapurpose.com and we will get back to you with our time and location.

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What can I expect in a practice?

 

Our on-water practices last from 1-1/2 to 2 hours and include technique drills and race pieces while incorporating elements of interval, endurance, and power training. This is all done in the dragon boat.

 

Is experience needed?

 

The great thing about dragon boating is that anyone (literally!) can join. We welcome all Breast Cancer Survivors with a curiosity and interest in learning more about dragon boating, from all fitness levels and backgrounds.

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What will be provided?

 

At the beginning, Paddles with a Purpose will provide you with a paddle and life vest (also known as PFD-- Personal Floatation Device) until you officially join the team. We also engage in safety training alongside our dragon boat training. Our steersmen & trainers are all certified in this field.

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What other forms of training do you do besides paddling?

 

We believe that in order to better our performance as paddlers, we need to build our cardio, strength, and endurance in addition to practices on the boat. That is why we also encourage members to engage in cross-training (running, swimming, biking, etc.) while off the boat. The team conducts a warm-up exercise session before our practices.

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Are there any costs associated with joining Paddles with a Purpose?

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Yes, however, we never turn anyone away due to their inability to afford our membership fees. We pride ourselves in being able to accommodate individuals with unique financial circumstances to assist with the cost. If you have any concerns regarding Paddles with a Purpose  membership fees, please contact us and we will forward your information to the Team Treasurer.

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By joining PWP, you are not only becoming involved in the fastest growing water sport in the world, you also develop lasting relationships with a diverse group of individuals who are looking for a fun,

competitive, and challenging sport! PWP  is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that relies solely on volunteers and members to run its operations.

 

How often do you race, and where?

 

We race about four to six times per year. Do you have to race? No. However, if you do want to be considered for races, several factors are considered such as how many paddlers have signed up, race venue, practice attendance, etc. Most of our races are within driving distance. We have raced in Oklahoma City, OK and in Irving, TX. In the future we hope to race in Florida and internationally. 

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What does your team do when they are not training and racing?

 

Believe it or not, we're actually friends outside of training too! We engage in a variety of social activities, celebrate team member birthdays, engage in local events and much more. We also participate in a variety of community outreach events as active citizens of the community and promote the sport of paddling.

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