Age: 34
Nationality: British
Profession: Business Professional, Dragon Boat Coach

How long have you been into dragon boating and how did you get introduced to it?
I have been dragon boating for six years. It all started when I was asked to participate in a corporate team race at Shangri La Dragon Boat Festival back in 2011; the adrenaline of the races and camaraderie of my teammates got me hooked! I was then approached by a premier team and didn’t hesitate to join and raced with them for the rest of the season. This was the start of my dragon boating career and it led me to create and coach my own team.

What keeps you passionate about it?
I love being a part of the dragon boat community. It’s a sport that brings people from all walks of life together.Dragon boating appeals to my competitive nature. There is nothing more satisfying than racing with my team and watching all our hard work and training pay off. I also love coaching and introducing new people to the sport.

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How is dragon boating different from other forms of boating?

A modern dragon boat is 10-12 meters long and consists of 10 rows of seats for 20 paddlers sitting side by side with a drummer in the front and steersman at the back. Despite its unique set up, what truly sets dragon boating apart from other forms of boating is its rich history and tradition. Dragon boating originated in China over 2000 years ago, and the colourful dragon heads at the front of the boat and rhythmic pounding of the drummer can still be seen and heard today.

Does one need any special kind of training to do dragon boating?
Dragon boating is a very technical sport with specific forward trunk rotation and leg drive movements which do not feel natural at first. It can take up to six months for a new paddler to truly understand the body mechanics behind the technique, however with that being said, anyone can learn to paddle and most get hooked within the first few sessions.

Are you a part of particular dragon boating team?
I am the head coach of the Desert Dragons Abu Dhabi, a team that I have been a part of since its formation in 2012. It is a competitive premier team, made up of a highly diverse group of paddlers. We have over 40 members, with 20 different nationalities and an age range of 23 to 65.

Where do you do dragon boating here in the UAE?
Eastern Mangroves Marina in Abu Dhabi is where the Desert Dragons AD call home. We are surrounded by beautiful, natural mangroves and visitors to the area will see us there up to four times a week.In Dubai, the training is usually held at Barasti Beach and Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort.

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How frequently do you race?
Our race season in the UAE is from October until April, with a race every month at different locations during this period. Teams in our league also choose to race abroad in locations such as Australia, Hong Kong, Italy, Korea, Philippines, and many more, which means that training extends all year around.

What are the benefits of dragon boating?
Health and fitness is the main benefit of dragon boating. Paddling improves your cardio vascular health as well as your strength and muscle endurance. Our training regime also includes training on land which consists of partner-based exercises specifically designed to promote teamwork and camaraderie – essential for the boat!Another benefit is being part of a lively social group. Dragon boaters train hard but also enjoy spending time with each other outside of the boat.

Very few people know about this sport. Do you have any advice for readers?
If you are looking for an exhilarating sport that will improve your health and social life, dragon boating is for you. My advice would be to find a team near you and get involved! Some of the most dedicated paddlers on my team are those that have never been part of a team before. Joining a dragon boat team can be one of the most rewarding and memorable experiences of your life.

Any memorable moments?
One of my most memorable dragon boating experiences was paddling in the first ever all female race in Doha, Qatar last December. It was an empowering feeling paddling in an all-women’s crew compared to a mixed crew.No doubt, it was an exciting race and we were second place, but the real joy was to be a part of this event and to make dragon boat history.


Words by: Bandana Jain
Photos by: Supplied