Sponsors

Dragon boating is a thrilling water sport that originated over 2,000 years ago in ancient China. Traditionally, it was used in rituals to honor the water dragon deity and promote community unity. Today, dragon boating has evolved into an exciting competitive sport that embodies teamwork, synchronization, and a festive spirit. Join us as a sponsor to support this amazing New Haven community-building tradition!

[Download the Sponsor Prospectus]

Registration & Fees

The 2025 Dragon Boat Regatta is your chance to experience the ultimate team-building challenge while enjoying a fun-filled day on the water.

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, June 7, 2025
• Location: Canal Dock Boathouse, 475 Long Wharf Drive, New Haven, CT
• Race Schedule: 7:00 AM – 12:30 PM
• Entertainment & Activities: DJ music, food trucks, awards ceremony
• Have questions? Contact dragon@canaldock.org.

Team Registration

Fee: $2,000 per team (includes a professionally coached 1-hour practice session, at least 2-3 races, and use of all necessary equipment)
Register online today!.

Team Requirements

• 16 paddlers + 1 drummer(up to 3 alternates allowed)
• Minimum of 5 women on a mixed team
• All participants must be at least 16 years old
• A professional steersperson is provided

Divisions

• Men's
• Women's
• Mixed (minimum of 6 women)

How to Register

1. Complete the registration form
2. We’ll invoice you
3. We'll email you a link to register your team members

️ Practice Sessions

• When? June 5 - 6 from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Where? Canal Dock Boathouse
• How to schedule? The team captain will select a time slot during registration.

Secure your spot early – team spaces are limited! Register Your Team Now!

Race Day Logistics

Event Location

Canal Dock Boathouse, 475 Long Wharf Drive, New Haven, CT
Parking: Free parking is available nearby, but carpooling is encouraged.

Race Day Timeline (tentative)

Time	Activity
7:00 AM	Check-in & Team Set-up
7:30 AM	Team Captain’s Meeting
8:00 AM	First Heats Begin
11:00 AM	Semi-Finals
12:00 PM	Championship Races
12:30 PM	Awards Ceremony & Celebrations

Race Format

• Sprint races: 200-250 meters (lasting 1-2 minutes)
• Each team competes in at least 2 races
• Professional steerspersons will be provided for all boats

Team Area & What to Bring

• Water bottle (hydration is key!)
• Sunscreen & hat (protect yourself from the sun)
• Waterproof shoes/sandals
• Windbreaker/splash jacket (weather can change quickly)
• 10’x10’ pop-up tent for shade
• Folding chairs & blankets
• Cooler with water & snacks
• Team t-shirts, decorations, and spirit gear!

Prohibited Items:

• No pets (service animals only)
• No grills (gas, charcoal, or electric)
• No alcohol until your races are done

Safety Guidelines

Dragon boat racing is an exciting, high-energy sport, but safety is our top priority.
All participants must follow these guidelines:

General Safety Rules

• Life Jackets Are Mandatory: Every paddler must wear a properly fastened U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times.
• No Alcohol or Drugs: Any paddler suspected of being under the influence will be disqualified.
• Age Restrictions: No children under 16 years old on boats.
• Medical Conditions: If you have asthma, epilepsy, heart conditions, or any other medical concerns, notify your team captain before race day.

On-the-Water Safety

• Do Not Stand in the Boat – Stay seated to avoid capsizing.
• Capsize Protocol:
• Stay with the boat and perform a headcount.
• Listen to the Boat Captain’s instructions before retrieving paddles.
• If directed, swim to the nearest shore or rescue vessel.

Key Commands Every Paddler Must Know

• "Brace the Boat" – Hold paddle flat on water to stabilize the boat.
• "Hold the Boat" – Stop paddling immediately.
• "Back Paddle" – Reverse direction.
• "Let it Ride" – Stop paddling and let the boat glide.

First Aid Support:

• Trained medical personnel will be onsite throughout the event.

Paddling & Racing Tips

Dragon boat racing is about teamwork, endurance, and rhythm. Follow these tips to get race-ready!

The 6 Key Stroke Phases are:

1. Rotation: Engage your core and twist your torso.
2. Extension: Reach forward for maximum stroke length.
3. Catch: Drop the paddle straight into the water.
4. Pull: Use your back muscles, not just arms.
5. Exit: Remove the paddle when it reaches your hip.
6. Recovery: Reset and prepare for the next stroke.

Winning Race Strategies

• Strong Start: 6 deep strokes, followed by 20 power strokes.
• Stay in Sync: Follow the lead paddlers – synchronization is key!
• Power 10s: A 10-stroke burst in the last third of the race gives a final push.