What sport needs more players than an AFL team, is held on water and where one of the most sought-after roles is banging a drum?
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Dragon boating is big enough in Orange to have two separate clubs each with its own long boat.
With the arrival of spring the dragon boating clubs are awaiting the Western Region regatta which will have about 22 teams competing from all around NSW.
There will also be spots for school, corporate and community teams to get involved.
Dragons Abreast co-ordinator Pearl Butcher said the club would run two come-and-try days to let people get a feel for the sport.
The first is on Sunday September 30 from 8.45am on Lake Canobolas.
Mrs Butcher encouraged people to give it a go.
“It’s just a social occasion people can come down and try it out,” she said.
“We will provide all the equipment.
“Wear light casual clothing but no thongs or bare feet are allowed in the boat.”
She said dragon boating was about the team of 20 paddlers, a sweep and a drummer working together in the correct rhythm.
“Some people pick it up quite easily, they get the timing right.
“Others might take a month.”
She said about 25 people had come out to previous try out days as it was a sport for all ages.
“We have members ranging from 13 to 79, men and women,” she said.
The regatta is on the lake on Sunday November 5 from 9am to about 3pm.