“Hey! The Powell River Pearl Warriors Dragon Boat team is starting another season of paddling. It’s the fastest growing water sport in the world! Wanna come out and join in the fun?”
“A dragon boat? Thought dragons were mythical flying creatures.”
“This dragon’s 42 feet long! It’s like a canoe—but with a steersperson, drummer or caller, and 20-some peeps on it, paddling like mad! People all around the planet do it!”
“Now why would anyone want to do that?”
“The thrill of the competition of course, to name just one reason! However, if you’re not the competitive type, you don’t have to do anything you don’t want to. We’d like to build at least one team that eventually would like to compete, as we have had in the past, and bring home more medals to add to our past victories!”
“Is it hard?”
“Don’t worry about the beer belly. Moderate fitness is helpful, but not necessary for this sport.
Beginners start wherever they are. In no time, you’ll be a water warrior—probably slimmer, too.”
“Who can join?”
“Pretty much anyone over the age of about 19.
“Hmmm...when and where do Pearl Warriors meet?”
“Twice a week for 120 minutes at the Shinglemill, Tuesday evenings from 6 to 8pm and Saturday at a time yet to be determined. Better scenery than out the gym windows, don’t you think? Come paddle from May through September. First paddle is May 19th at 6pm”
“Are there costs involved?”
“For insurance purposes, yes. There is a nominal fee of $5 per session or $30/month, totalling $120.00 for the season.”
“Do I need any special equipment?”
“You’ll need to beg, borrow or otherwise find, a life jacket (PFD). It is a water sport so there may be some splashing involved. Come prepared for that. Oh and don’t forget to bring your enthusiasm!”
“Can I just come and try it out?”
“Absolutely! First lesson is free! Come on down anytime—you know where we are and when we are there! If you need more info you can call me @ 604 483 4339 or Chris @ 604 485 5478. We’d love to have you ‘on board’!”
—yazmin