While the marquee Stanley International Dragon Boat Championships may be postponed this year due to coronavirus, you can still try your hand at this fun team sport. Celebrate the exciting and colourful Dragon Boat Festival this year by taking part in the unique Hong Kong sport. Not only will it help build your summer body, it is also a great team sport if you enjoy group fitness. Here is a list of paddling teams that you can join.
Read more: 8 water-sports to try in Hong Kong
Stormy Dragons Paddling Club
Stormy Dragons welcomes all, with paddlers coming from different backgrounds and levels. Besides having one of the best women’s team, Stormy Dragons is also a group that knows how to have a good time. Other than paddling, it has been committed to helping out local charities like the Hong Kong Sea School and the Christina Noble Children’s Foundation. Whether dragon boat is new to you or not, feel free to head down to Tai Tam and give it a go. Head over to its Facebook to join its training sessions.
Buzz Dragon Boating Society
A big group with members from all around the world, Buzz Dragon has teams of women’s, men’s and mixed. The team has been active in local and international races, receiving regular invitations to local fisherman races and events. Get the best of both worlds by paddling and immersing in the traditional spirit and cultural heritage of Hong Kong. It’s a great way to make friends and enjoy a water sport. Check out its Facebook page for more info.
VRC Paddle Team
The Victoria Recreation Club is Hong Kong’s oldest private club that gathers sports people and families alike. Its paddling team is based in Deep Water Bay and besides dragon boat paddling, it also offers outrigger canoeing. The well-resourced VRC Paddle Team has been growing since 2012 and brought home medals from the Club Crew World Championships. The team is also known for hosting the famous 500m Deep Water Bay Dragon-Boat Regatta annually. Find out more on its Facebook page.
Seagods
Fun and friendship are just as important as paddling. With a great mix of expats and locals, Seagods is definitely the fun social team you are looking for. The team combines commitment, high achievement and fun, and is one of the most successful mixed teams in Hong Kong. Although the race season doesn’t last all year long, the team’s social events never stops. Whether your goal is to make friends, keep fit or try a new sport, follow its Facebook page to join an open session.
Lamma Dragons
One of the pioneers of dragon boat clubs, Lamma Dragons was founded in the 80s by a group of ladies. It has competed in and out of Hong Kong, proving itself powerful and competitive. Besides training and races, the team also enjoys socialising and maintaining good relationships with the local community, including protecting the environment it paddles in. Training is based in Lamma Power Station Beach. You can check out its Facebook for more details.
Loreley
Just like its name, team Loreley trains hard and strong. It is an active competitor in the famous Sun Life International Race held annually in Stanley. With a mix of expats and locals, its after-training get-togethers are always fun, rewarding you for your sweat and tears. Join the team at one of the try outs down at Stanley Main Beach and experience the charm and team spirit of dragon boat. Find out more on its Facebook page.
