Dragon Boat Races in Toronto Sept 2011

I stumbled on the GWN Dragon Boat Challenge in Marilyn Bell Park in Toronto

There had been some intense training going on in the local clubs and I wasn't surprise to run into this Dragon Boat Race

Tents were set up with team names, and there was tons of people looking fit and pleased. These races occur every year and people train extremely hard for them.

Dock Motoring By!!

My first inkling that something was up was when I woke up from my first overnight stay in my Tanzer 22 (I had to sleep in her at least once) to find a large dock slowly passing by.

It's a Boat!!

My second clue was the next day when I came sailing, the Argonauts club basin was full of very fit people paddling.

Fast and Furious Race!!

The races are wildly exciting with much shouting from the drummer-caller as he sets the pace and encourages his team ... loudly.

Heading to the Start Line

Each boat has 20 Paddler, a drummer or caller at the front and a sweep or steerer at the rear. During events, fabulous dragon heads are attached to the boats. The heads are not on all the time.

Getting Ready to Race

People race dragon boats for many reasons, Its considered a good team building activity. Many corporate teams were represented. It is also a great physical workout. PLUS it's also really fun!

The Event

There was a strong Charitable element to this event with Children's Wish being involved. There were also tents for Breast Cancer Survivor.

Dragon boat racing is one sport where men and women are almost evenly represented. Everyone certainly looked trim and fit.

I posted a Youtube Video of one of the races. Lots of excitement Shows how fast the boat can go.

emails: Christine