Getting Started – Information You Need to Know

Paddling and Parking…

We paddle in Porpoise Bay/Sechelt Inlet. Don and Diane MacKenzie graciously allow us to keep and launch our dragon boats at Mackenzie Marina (off Marine Way in Sechelt). Mr. MacKenzie’s one stipulation is that we DO NOT PARK IN THE LOWER PARKING LOT as it is a working marina and those spaces are for his paying customers. The upper parking lot is for our use (do not block the driveway at the end) and if it is full, please park on the street above and walk down.

It is best if you can car-pool as there are sometimes two full teams as well as outrigger paddlers vying for parking.

Let’s all be good neighbours and keep the area clean and neat, and not disturb the business.

Fitness and What to Wear…

We encourage dragon boaters to view dragon boating as part of their fitness for life and living well, and to participate in other types of exercise to maximize their dragon boating experience. There are many choices for building fitness on the

Sunshine Coast. Aerobic and strength (using weights) training are the most helpful, both in preparing for the dragon boating season and helping to build strength and endurance during the season. Layered quick dry clothing is best option on the boat, with good rain gear when needed.

”Dragon Boating is a Water Sport” and you will want to dress appropriately…

NOTE: Please wear shoes/water shoes that can get wet and have some ‘grippy’ type soles.

*SAFETY IS IMPORTANT*

Safety is the responsibility of everyone, at all times. All members are required to read the SCDBC Safety Policy and sign the SCDBC waiver acknowledging they have read and accept the rules.

Lifejackets/PFD’s must be worn by all in the boats at all times – which means the wearing of a DOT approved lifejacket that is an appropriate fit so that it won’t ride up and is well zipped up.

Guest and Membership Policy for Dragon Boaters

A fee of $5.00 will be assessed, after the non-member has used their 2 free drop ins. If any guest wishes to become a NEW member, they may join at any time in the season, based on the Membership policy, and their guest assessment will be applied to their membership.

For more info please contact:

New Paddlers Orientation -

If you are a new paddler this year you are strongly encouraged to participate in the

New Paddlers Orientation.

This will be held at MacKenzie’s Marina and will be a gentle orientation to safety, launching and dewatering, the boat, the basic stroke, and you will get a chance to go out with new and experienced paddlers‘… It will be a fun and easy introduction.

Teams, Coaches and Practice Times

Team / MacKenzie Mussels / Sunshine Dragons Abreast / Porpoise Paddlers / Sea Gals
Coach / Jane Tollestrup
Edna Naylor / Gillian Kydd / Rudy Van Egdom / Marla Taylor
Days & Times of Practices / Monday +
Thursday
6 to 8 pm / Monday
5 - 7 pm
Wednesday 5:30-7:30 pm / Thursday
9:30-11:30 am / Tuesday + Thursday
5:30-7:30 pm

Please contact your team leaders for more information about your team…

In the interest off your personal health and safety The Board very strongly recommends that paddlers not paddle more than three times per week – this is for your own protection, well—being and in your best interest to reduce and prevent personal injury..