Dragon Boat Racing

The ancient Chinese origin and history has been traced back more than 2000 years!  But today Dragon Boat racing involves teams of up to 10 paddlers paddling frantically to beat the other teams down the course in a 30ft boat with a drummer and helm. The drums and colourful boats make it impressive and exciting both to watch and participate in. 

 

Teams will paddle what looks like an oversized canoe with an ornately carved dragons head at the front and a tail at the rear.  A drum positioned at the front with a drummer furiously banging the drum to keep the rest of the crew in time.  A helms person (provided by TAG) steers the boat from the rear and helps to co-ordinate the team’s efforts so that they are all paddling at the same speed.  

 

Dragon boating is not only an exhilarating and enjoyable sport but also an excellent exercise in teambuilding.  It is essential for dragon boat teams to work together; making use of each member’s individual strengths in order to ensure that their team delivers the best possible performance in their races.  The winning team will be the team that successfully works together; communicating with each other, with the help of the drummer, to ensure that they work as a unified team.

 

A maximum of 11 crew members will race in the boat at one time.  The boats accommodate teams of 10 paddlers, 1 drummer and a helm (the minimum number in a boat is 6 paddlers, 1 drummer and 1 helm). 

 

Dragon Boat racing is a creative and exciting event with a difference and we guarantee to create an unforgettable day out of the office!   

 

The Format

 

Ø  On arrival our professional announcer will welcome the group and lead the ice breaker challenge.

 

Ø  Once teams have complete this and are wearing their team t-shirt, the teams will be safety briefed. 

 

Ø  On completion of the safety briefings the first round of racing will get underway.  All participants must attend the safety briefing.

 

Ø  Teams will then be called forward approximately every 10 minutes for their races.

 

Ø  Once all the teams have raced two or three times, there will be a short break when an announcement will be made as to which teams have made it through to the semi finals. 

 

Ø  The winners of each semi final will race in the final.

 

Ø  A presentation will follow the final race.