Dragon Boat Racing Team
Join Macalester’s Dragon Boat Racing Team: The Loch Ness Monsters
Ginny Moran, Instruction and Research Librarian, is once again coordinating Macalester’s dragon boat racing team for the Dragon Festival at Phalen Park in St. Paul on July 13 &14, 2019. We invite you to join the team to practice and compete on Sunday, July 14.
Okay, I’m in! What do I do next?
Want more info? Read on…
Dragon boat racing?
Yes, dragon boat racing! The dragon boats used at the Dragon Festival are called “Taiwan-style” dragon boats (as compared to “Hong Kong-style” dragon boats). They require 18 paddlers, a drummer, a flag catcher, and a steersperson. The festival provides the steersperson; we provide the 20 others on the boat and can roster an additional 5 people as alternates for a total of 25 people on the team. Each boat must have at least 8 women paddling or drumming. For more context, watch the 2016 Loch Ness Monsters video (YouTube).
How does the race work?
Each team is assigned to one day of racing, either Saturday or Sunday. We have requested to race on Sunday July 14, 2019. Training begins at 9:00am. Each team has about 45 minutes on the water with a steersperson during their training time. The race runs from 1:00pm-5:00pm. There will be 12 teams racing on this day. Each race consists of two heats, and are time trials. Combined times are ultimately used to determine prizes.
So what am I committing to?
You need to be available for the whole day, rain or shine, on Sunday, July 14th. Fortunately, there are many tasty food options available and lots of event entertainment going on. Plus dragon boat races to watch! The event is family-friendly, so feel free to bring a cheering and support section to the festival with you.
There will also be at least one recommended, but not required, team meeting prior to the event.
Who can be on the team?
Faculty, staff, students, and alumni can be on the team, along with friends and/or family, as long as everyone is 18 or older.
How much does this cost?
The non-refundable registration fee includes the cost of a team shirt and holds your place on the roster.
- Current Macalester faculty, staff and students – $30
- Macalester faculty/staff + Support a Student – $60
- Macalester alumni and friends of Macalester – $70
- Support Crew – $15 (team shirt only)
Do I need to know what I’m doing?
Heck no! Well, it helps, but it isn’t required. Dragon boat racing is sort of like bowling, in that it is easy to learn what to do, but takes a lifetime to master. The event provides boats, paddles, and life jackets, so you don’t need to bring your own. When we have our team set, we will have a team meeting so we can see each other at least once before the event, and will provide a dry-land orientation experience. Additional information will be shared leading up to the event, and we will use our on-the-water practice time to the best of our abilities.
Do I need to be in great shape with huge biceps and amazing upper body strength?
Overall athletic ability will never hurt you in any sports event, but all kinds of people can do this and have fun. If anything, a strong core will be your best friend.
What if I’m not sure I can commit?
Let Ginny Moran ([email protected]) know if you are interested and she will keep you in the loop.
I’m convinced! What do I do next?
More questions? Contact Ginny ([email protected]).
Paddles up!