Bristol Empire Dragons
Our boathouse in Saltford, located alongside the Rowing Club, houses a variety of boats, including single-seat O1 and OC1s, a V6, and 10 or 20-person dragon boats.
Across the UK, dragon boat clubs compete in exciting race events throughout the year, with the National Dragon Boat Championships held annually at the National Water Sports Centre in Nottingham.
As part of the National Race Series, our Bristol dragon boat club trains hard, races hard, and always works hard for success.
TRAINING AND COMPETITION
TRAINING
Crew members are encouraged to come to as many dragon boat training sessions as possible; some may only be able to make one-a-week, others more.
WHEN
Tuesdays and Thursdays 6.30-8pm (April – October)
Sundays 9am-10.30am (All Year)
COMMUNICATION
We require a minimum of 7 paddlers, including a qualified helm and coach, for a session to go ahead.
Training sessions, club community events and race events are managed through the Stack Team App and club WhatsApp group, so coaches and members can see who's attending and plan coaching effectively.
WHO CAN JOIN OUR BRISTOL DRAGON BOAT CLUB?
If you are looking for an exciting, enjoyable and challenging watersport in Bristol, come and join our dragon boat club.
Almost ANYONE can participate in dragon boating. Our youngest members are in their teens and eldest are pensioners; they all have a seat on the boat and help to create the inclusive club we are proud to belong to. Club members come from all walks of life, all ages and all nationalities. They range from novice paddlers to experienced dragon boat racers and even GB athletes and coaches!
Dragon boating develops all-body fitness, stamina and endurance, for honed athletes to those looking for ways of improving their health and well-being.
You will be given a warm welcome and all the help, coaching and equipment you need, to learn the art of dragon boat racing and find your place within the Bristol Empire Dragons crew.
About training
Competing in the National Race Series
Full-body workout for all fitness levels
Welcoming crew of all ages and backgrounds
Based near to Bristol alongside the Saltford Rowing Club
WHAT YOU NEED
If you are a non-swimmer, we simply ask you to wear club-supplied buoyancy aids.
Buoyancy aids are also worn by all crew, during winter training sessions.
We recommend bringing a water bottle, to keep hydrated.
WHAT TO WEAR
Wear sportswear which allows for good movement.
Trainers or beach shoes are a good idea, giving grip when moving on and off the boat.
AFTER TRAINING
Bring a towel and warm clothing for after a session on the water; it is a water sport and you are likely to get wet.
We often go for a coffee, or may stay for a bbq, after training.
This is a great way to get to know others in the crew and enjoy spending time together.
COME AND JOIN THE CREW
To sign up for a training session, please click on the link below, read this safety information document, then fill in the B.E.D request form and we will be in touch very soon.