Bundaberg Dragon Boat paddlers are looking to bring home the Wide Bay series trophy at the upcoming regatta held on the Burnett River.
Secretary Christine Cross said after coming away winners in the third Wide Bay Series held at Tin Can Bay in June, the local team were in good shape for the next competition.
Christine said the Bundaberg Dragon Boat paddlers had won two of the four Wide Bay series rounds, while the 1770 competitors were keeping them on their toes taking home one win.
She said if 1770 beat them in the upcoming finals, they would go head-to-head in a winner takes all round.
“We came away winners in the Wide Bay Series on Saturday and were second in the final of B division in the Sleepy Lagoon regatta on Sunday,” Christine said.
“Clubs came from the greater Brisbane area and Sunshine Coast as well.
“We had the fastest time of all competitors of 50.21 seconds for 200m. Close to, if not our fastest time for a few years.”
For those unfamiliar with the dragon boat racing sport, Christine said it was a fantastic activity to be involved in.
“The dragon boat is around 12 meters long; there are 10 seats in the boat, two paddlers per seat,” she said.
“We have a drummer who sits on the front behind the dragon head and beats a large drum in time with the paddlers.
“The steerer stands at the back of the boat holding a long oar to steer the boat.
“Races are usually held over 200m, 500m and 2 kilometres. The long races are started one boat at a time, with the best time winning.”
Christine said the local dragon boat regatta would be held on Saturday, 24 July between the traffic and rail bridges on the Burnett River, and the community was invited to head along and check out the speed on the water.
“Racing starts at 9am and we should be finished by around noon,” she said.
“There will be a street food van and coffee van over north in Lions Park near the boat ramp.
“Come down and check it out – you might find a new sporting pastime.”
Bundaberg Dragon Boats paddle all year round for exercise, and they train Wednesday at 3.30pm, and Saturday at 2.30pm for longer sessions.
For more information check out the Facebook page.
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