What is dragon boat?
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Dragon boat or dragonboating is an aquatic sport utilizing a long and narrow boat powered by a 22
man crew. The boat is propelled through the water by each member paddling on either the left or right side in unison with each
other. Dragon boat began as a traditional ceremony and festival to commemorate the Qu Yuan, a famous Chinese Poet, and is now an
internationally recognized racing event. Competitions are held throughout the year and at various locations. The UCLA team has
raced at Long Beach and as far away as San Francisco and Las Vegas.
How is the boat organized?
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There are 22 people on a full boat. 20 of them are the paddlers who sit in rows of two and are divided into two main groups: the
strokers and engine room. Each section carries a different purpose and both are essential to a fast boat. The
remaining two people comprise the steerer and drummer. The drummer (or caller) is responsible for the timing and rhythm of
the strokes, calling sequences of powers (short surges of powerful strokes), and for boosting morale. The steerer, of course,
maintains or changes the direction of the boat.
Is it like crew?
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Yes and no. With crew, the rowers are positioned in a straight line with their backs turned facing the front of the boat.
Each rower has an oar pulled with both arms and legs. Also, each rower has a seat which moves back and forth through the
stroke. A coxswain is situated in the back of the boat to call commands and steer. With dragon boat, a team of 20 sit side by
side, 10 on each side, facing forward to paddle. They are commanded by a drummer in the front and steered by a steersperson
in the rear. The stroke of dragon boat also differs from crew. Members of crew 'row' while dragon boaters 'paddle,' analogous
to canoeing, rafting, or outrigger. Similarities between the two sports would be the utilization of an oar/paddle and the
necessity of timing strokes.
How do I join?
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We do our recruiting during zero and first week of fall quarter every year. There is usually an info session
and a few tryout dates, including physical fitness testing, boat practice, as well as socials. Spaces on the team
are limited by the number of rides that are available as well as the number of members that are returning.
Do I need any experience to join the team?
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No, you do not need any experience to join. We are mostly interested in commitment and determination.
How many hours would I have to commit a week?
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Land and boat practices combined, expect to commit around 8-9 hours per week.
Do I have to be athletic?
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Dragon boat is a very physical and mentally intensive sport. Anyone who is not in shape will get in shape through dragon
boat. Although being athletic initially is not necessary, the want to get in shape has to be present.
Is there a certain height and weight requirement?
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Unlike crew, there are no height and weight restrictions for dragon boat. But if you think you are light and loud, ask about
our drummer positions.
Do I need to know how to swim?
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We recommend you know how to swim but it is not required.
When and where do we practice?
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Land practices are held every Tuesday and Thursday from 7:00pm to 8:30pm at Drake Stadium, but is subject to change depending
on the time of year. Boat practices are every Saturday and Sunday from 11:00am to 12:30pm at Long Beach and again, is subject
to change.
What if I can't make practice?
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Missing practice on a regular basis is not acceptable. Practice can be missed by legitimate reasons only. Evites are sent out
for every boat practice and must be replied to. If boat practice cannot be attended, there will be no other time to make it
up until the following week, so attendance is very important.
When does the season start?
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The dragon boat season starts in March and goes until October.
Do I need to have my own gear?
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Workout clothes and running shoes are needed for land practice and are not provided. Paddles and life jackets will be
provided during boat practices. However, the paddles and life jackets at Long Beach are in poor condition; it is recommended
buying your own equipment.
How much are the club dues?
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Club dues fluxuate but are generally around $100 for the whole year. The dues include race registration fees, the cost of
using the boats at Long Beach, and other team events.
What would I gain from being on the team?
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Dragon Boat is the ultimate team sport. By being on this team, you will meet at least 20 other people, if not more, of which
you will bond and grow closer with through team socials and team practices. Also, you will go through land practices and boat
practices to increase your physical stamina and strength.
Can I be a drummer instead of a paddler?
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If you are light and loud but rather not paddle, think about being a drummer. The role of the drummer includes
keeping the timing of the boat, calling powers, and encouraging the team through practices and races. Experience is not
necessary and we will train you for the position.
How long are the races?
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Normally, one race covers the distance of 500m. 500m races usually take from 2:00 - 2:30 minutes, depending on the ability of
the team. Some competitions may hold 250m sprints and some races can even go up to 5,000m (around a 30 minute paddle).