WHAT IS DRAGON BOAT?
Dragon boating is a competitive water sport that usually involves a crew of 20 paddlers. We sit in a 2×10 grid and paddle in unison. A drummer, or caller, is responsible for motivating everyone during the races and helping the boat keep the timing of the strokes. A steer in the back is responsible for piloting the boat.
AM I ELIGIBLE TO JOIN?
As long as you are a current UC Berkeley student, you are eligible to try out for the team. Tryouts are usually held at the beginning of each semester. Details can be found on this website or on our Instagram.
DO I NEED LIFTING OR PADDLING EXPERIENCE TO JOIN?
Absolutely not! Some of our best paddlers joined with no experience in lifting, let alone paddling. We believe that technique, strength, and skill can be developed with time. Even though dragon boat is a very physically intensive sport, we will train you to gain endurance and get in shape. We will teach you all the basics and everything else you need to know about weight training. In addition to training for races, we train for overall fitness and strength. Approach us in the gym!
IS THERE A TRYOUT PROCESS?
Yes. Tryouts are usually within 2-3 weeks after school starts. They allow us to gauge your ability to push yourself and stay motivated while motivating others. Check the website and our Instagram for more updates.
CAN I TRYOUT MORE THAN ONCE?
Absolutely! Many of our paddlers joined the team in their second or third trials.
WHAT DO WE LOOK FOR IN A PADDLER?
We look for team players who are willing to commit themselves to personal and team growth. It takes time to hone paddling techniques, and maintaining our paddlers’ physical, emotional, and mental well-being is crucial to the team’s success
HOW MANY HOURS OF TRAINING ARE THERE PER WEEK?
There are two mandatory water practices on Saturdays and Sundays; each water practice lasts for 1.5-2 hours. During weekdays, two off-water practices are required, which can be OC (outrigger canoe), paddle erg, or a morning practice on a dragon boat if possible. As for lifting weights, we expect all paddlers to go to the gym at least once a week.
HOW OFTEN DO PADDLERS GET TO RACE?
We participate in one to two races every semester. In the summer, there are more racing opportunities, both nationally and internationally. Paddlers must meet training requirements in order to race.
WHERE ARE PRACTICES?
We practice on the water at the Berkeley Marina. Rides to the practice sites will either be by car or bus depending on the number of drivers we have that weekend.
WILL WE NEED OUR OWN GEAR FOR PRACTICE?
We will supply paddles and PFDs (life jackets) for you at our water practices. You are not required to know how to swim.