What we’re about
2023 marks the 20th year of paddling for the NAC recreational dragon boat team. Adults of all ages are welcome. Practices are held on Sunday mornings at the Newport Aquatic Center (NAC) in Newport Beach, California.
If you love being on the water, please join us for a free practice session. No experience is necessary, and we will provide a loaner paddle and PFD. Please note the team meets on Sunday mornings rain or shine. If it is raining hard, we may do circuit training inside the facility. We allow guest paddlers to join us a few times to see if this team is the right fit for you.
Participating in local, regional and international races is optional. Some of our members enjoy the workout and camaraderie of weekly paddling in Newport Beach and others can't wait to battle it out with dragonboat teams from across the country and world. Whatever your preference, we have a place for you!
Please be sure to RSVP through Meet Up and we will save a spot for you in the boat. If you change your mind, please be courteous and update your RSVP so we can open up your seat to someone else. Bring water and don’t be late. We leave at 8:30am sharp and expect guest paddlers to arrive at 8:15am. Please be on time or you will miss the boat.
(Don't let the lack of RSVPs fool you - our practices are very well-attended by our team members who reserve their spot using a different app.)
> WHAT TO BRING:
> Clothing that can get wet. This is a watersport and you may get splashed, need to step knee-deep in the water and/or the boat may capsize (very rare, but it can happen). Cotton is not recommended. Most moisture-wicking and quick-dry gym attire (yoga pants/leggings, t-shirts/tanks, shorts) is appropriate. Long sleeve shirts may be preferred for sun protection.
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> Water shoes/sandals/flip flops if desired. Many paddlers choose to paddle barefoot, but please be aware of sharp seashells, rocks, branches, and the rare fishhook or broken glass on the beach, as well as slippery surfaces.
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> A dry change of clothes for after practice. A towel. Outdoor hoses are available for rinsing salt/sand after practice.
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> Sun protection such as sunglasses, a hat/visor, sunscreen, neck gaiters, and/or long-sleeved shirts. The sun can be fierce reflecting off of the water. Remember that you will be gripping a paddle, and your hands may get wet, so try to keep slippery sunscreen and lotion off of your hands before practice!
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> Water for hydrating during breaks. Reusable plastic bottles work great and don't clang around as noisily as metal bottles!
> A positive attitude and willingness to learn and work hard.
> We look forward to paddling with you! Please message with any questions and don’t forget to RSVP.
