Friends keep asking me, “Why dragon boating? What is it? And why on earth are you doing it?”
The answer begins with a chance encounter at Nathan Benderson Park (NBP) in Sarasota, Florida
I had just finished a rowing scull race when a man in a military cap approached me. “Ever try dragon boat paddling?” he asked.
“Only on TV,” I told him.
His name was Rick, a fellow veteran. We shook hands, exchanged thanks for our service, and within minutes he had given me a quick introduction to the sport and an invitation to join the Snap Dragon team at NBP. It was one of those moments where a door opens unexpectedly—and you feel you should at least peek inside.
At the time, I was already active with the Sarasota County Rowing Club (SCRC), the Lake Sunapee Rowing Club (LSRC) in New Hampshire, and the Outdoor Recreation for Seniors Club in New London, NH. I’d logged plenty of miles in kayaks and canoes, including 100‑mile wilderness trips. So the idea of learning yet another paddling discipline didn’t feel far‑fetched. It felt like a natural extension of the life I already live.
In my books, articles, and presentations, I often paraphrase Henry David Thoreau: “Never say, ‘I wish I had…’” That philosophy nudged me forward. If a new adventure presents itself, why not explore it?
Before I share more of my own journey, here’s a quick look at what dragon boating actually is.
What is Dragon Boat Paddling?
Dragon boat paddling is a team‑based water sport where 20 paddlers, a drummer, and a steer person work in perfect rhythm to move a long, narrow boat forward using powerful, synchronized strokes. It blends technique, timing, and teamwork—far more about rhythm and body mechanics than brute strength. 🐉 What Dragon Boat Paddling is a sprint paddling sport originating from ancient Chinese festivals. • Crews sit in pairs, paddling on one side only. • Boats accelerate through synchronized strokes, not individual power. • Races typically range from 200m to 2000m.
A Rookie’s First Month
After just one month on the water, I’m sharing a short 30‑second video captured by Coach Tim Dimenna during a practice session at Nathan Benderson Park. More photos and videos will follow as OutdoorSteve continues learning the stroke, the timing, and the camaraderie that make dragon boating such a compelling new chapter.
See if you can spot the rookie in the boat—yes, that would be me.
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For more of Steve’s outdoor guidebooks and documentary videos, visit OutdoorSteve.com and Outdooradventurers.blogspot.com.
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