Get on the Lake with GT Dragon Boat Racers
GT Dragon Boat (photo contributed)
By Jo Boxwell
There’s nothing quite like the experience of being out on the water. Spending time on the lake boating, kayaking or getting dragged along on a wakeboard draws many people to this area. There is another way to explore Shuswap Lake that you may not have tried: dragon boating.
Traditionally made of teak but now forged from lightweight materials such as fibreglass, dragon boats originated in China and are linked to various ancient legends and cultural traditions. They are long and narrow and feature a long steering oar that guides the boat from the stern. Paddlers propel the boat forward, and a Chinese drum is stationed near the bow that can be used to help the team keep a steady rhythm.
Blind Bay’s GT Dragon Boat Society owns two dragon boats: the 20-person Dragon Spirit and the 10-person Dragonfly. The society was started in 2011 with the help of Gord Henderson, the late Todd McDonald and others, along with sponsorship support from Blind Bay Villager Grocer. Current member Shirley Longman explained that after a lull during covid, the club is now trying to drum up more interest as well as younger members who can keep the dragon boats on the water this season and experience the physical and social benefits of dragon boating for themselves. Shirley said, “if you like to encourage others and cheer each other on, it’s a very fun sport to be in at all ages.”
If you haven’t heard much about dragon boats before, it may be because the sport is relatively new to Canada. Traditional teak boats were introduced at exhibition races in Vancouver as part of Expo 86. Since then, the sport has seen rapid growth. Some communities have dragon boat teams for breast cancer survivors following research in the 1990s by UBC sports medicine specialist Don McKenzie, who identified physical and social benefits of the sport for survivors.
GT Dragon Boat racers (photo contributed)
For those who are looking to get more active, dragon boating is a great workout. Shirley explained, “Some people think they can’t do it because of their back or their shoulders. It actually strengthens your upper back and your core,” enhancing cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and endurance. There are also social benefits to being part of a team. Attending festivals to participate in races is an optional aspect of the sport. The society is hoping to attend the Salmon Arm Dragon Boat Festival in June.
Registration Opens in March
The GT Dragon Boat Society will have a booth at Blind Bay Village Grocer on March 29th for people to stop by, ask questions and register for the upcoming season. Local artist Cori Torrez is designing art for a dragon boat paddle that will be given away as a draw prize. It is also possible to register online by visiting gtdragonboatsociety.ca/registration.
May Launch Party
On Sunday, May 4th, 12 pm – 2 pm at Blind Bay Hall, the GT Dragon Boat Society will host a community event that everyone is welcome to attend. The boats will be put into the water and there will be a food truck, music, games, face painting and a chance to try out the sport.
2025 Season
GT Dragon Boat racers (photo contributed)
During the 2025 season, one-hour practices will take place from Bayside Marina, Blind Bay. Practice times are flexible, taking into consideration what works best for everyone. All ages are encouraged to participate. Paddles and life jackets are available. There is a $10 drop-in fee for first timers who would like to try dragon boating.
Canoe and Kayaking Opportunities
The society also has a canoe and kayak group, which meets twice a month to explore local lakes and rivers. Participants bring their own canoes or kayaks. More information can be obtained online or at the March 29th registration event.
To find out more about the GT Dragon Boat Society, visit gtdragonboatsociety.ca.
