Important Links

Society Constitution and Bylaws

Nothin’ Dragon Masters has been operating as a club since 1998 and was incorporated as Nothin’ Dragon Paddling Society in 2022. At the same time, we dropped ‘Masters’ in our name. We are now, “Nothin’ Dragon.”

A member must be 50 years of age or older. Team membership dues are nominal and must be paid by October 31 of each year. It’s important to familiarize yourself with our bylaws and constitution below.

Part of your registration fee ($15) goes to the Old Mill Boathouse Society. As a team member of our team, you must also be a member of the Old Mill Boathouse Society (operators of the clubhouse and our store room). You will be invited to attend their AGMs as well. As a member, you should familiarize yourself with their constitution and bylaws as well.

Our Mission Statement

Nothin’ Dragon strives for individual and team excellence by participating in an enjoyable, competitive sport and supporting each team member in becoming fit, skilled and dedicated to leading an active and healthy lifestyle.

The Club shall carry out its Mission Statement without the purpose of financial gain for its members. It shall use any profits, or other Club assets, solely to achieve and promote its Mission Statement. The Club shall carry out its functions and purpose on a charitable basis.

Membership Commitments

Time and commitment are essential components of being a member of our team. It is the responsibility of each member to contribute to the club by:

  • attending practices and dryland training
  • helping put the boats to dock for training or return to moorage after training
  • participate in AT LEAST four (4) dragon boat regattas from April to September
  • purchasing a racing team shirt, black pants or shorts
  • participating in our social and fundraising events
  • helping a team manager

Every member is expected to attend all training throughout the year. It is important to come on time to practices and to take part in warm-up exercises to prevent injuries. It’s also beneficial to incorporate other fitness routines into your lifestyle.

Operational Guidelines

Read our guidelines on coaching, training, captain and assistant captain’s positions, seating in the boat, team selection, equipment, safety, races, the privacy of personal information, personal conduct, and communication. (Includes information on PFDs, clothing, responsibilities, safety, etc.)

The Rookies Guide to Dragon Boat Races

WHAT TO EXPECT ON RACE DAY

The motto of dragon boating is “Hurry up and wait,” so bring something to entertain yourself between races. We experience sun, rain, wind, and cold so be prepared! You are expected to pay attention to race times which are posted in our tent. If you want to leave the tent to enjoy the festival atmosphere OR have to leave the marshaling area (only if time allows) you must advise your seatmate so someone knows where you are. If you are not back in time, a spare will assume your position on the boat.

THE RACING

Regattas or festivals run on a schedule. Marshaling (lining up for a race) is approximately a half-hour before the race time. Our first race results seed us into subsequent races. Results and upcoming races are posted at the event.

The role of the spare: If you have been designated as a ‘spare’ for a race, you should be ready in the event of an injury or someone no-shows once our team is called to load the boat. Always carry your life vest and paddle. As a spare, you may be called upon to take care of the valuables bag while others are racing.

WHAT TO BRING

  • Your enthusiasm and competitive spirit!

  • A full change of clothes
  • Hat, sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended.
  • Folding camp chair
  • Food and water. Pack a lunch and snacks. Food is not always available for purchase, however it is at most major events. As a teammate for details. Bottled water and sports drinks are recommended if it gets really warm, i.e. Gatorade
  • Your paddle and PFD (life jacket) if you prefer
  • Appropriate clothing; race gear (racing shirt and black pants or shorts)

VALUABLES

  • Pack light! If you can leave your wallet or cell phone at home, do so. Often we are asked to provide ID for certain races so it’s understandable to bring, money and ID.
  • A spare paddler is designated to take care of our ‘valuables bag’ which is a backpack on wheels holding cell phones and small wallets, etc. ONLY during marshaling and race times. Otherwise, you are responsible for your valuables. Note that some races have contained paddling villages with security guards. The guards man the entrances only, and not our tents.