Nothin’ Dragon held our first-ever team awards, a fun-filled celebration packed with laughter, great conversation, and well-deserved recognition for our paddlers.
Read morePaddling to Deep Cove — A Day to Remember!
The NDPS crew who put in the journey, stand on the Deep Cove dock before paddling back to Port Moody.
Nothin’ Dragon Paddling Society took on a challenge we hadn’t attempted since 2022 — paddling from Rocky Point in Port Moody all the way to Deep Cove, North Vancouver.
Read moreSeason Finale at the Oddball Fall Classic
Way to go Team Rock! Bronze medalists in the F Division Final.
Nothin’ Dragon wrapped up the 2025 season at the Oddball Fall Classic in False Creek with two mixed crews, camaraderie, and a Bronze medal finish.
Read moreHonorary Member Announcement
Ric Tesan on one of his travel adventures.
The Nothin’ Dragon Paddling Society board is pleased to announce that long-time and now alumni member, Ric Tesan, was appointed an Honorary Member …
Read moreMore Than Racing: Penticton’s Perfect Team Weekend
On the shores of Skaha Lake
Nothin’ Dragon paddlers overcame challenges to race strong and build lasting memories at the 2025 Penticton Dragon Boat Festival.
Read moreNothin’ Dragon Strikes Gold at Freshco Richmond
Team Nothin’ Dragon battled tides and headwinds in Steveston to capture gold in the G Division Final at the Freshco Richmond Dragon Boat Festival.
Read moreMaking Waves in Kamloops: A Bronze and a Loops Race Win
The Kamloops crew!
Nothin’ Dragon made waves in their first appearance at the Kamloops Dragon Boat Festival, capturing bronze in the 500m and gold in the 1500m Loops race amid perfect Thompson River conditions…
Read moreBack on the Lake: Nothin’ Dragon Returns to Harrison
Our Harrison Crew!
After a two-year break, Nothin’ Dragon made a triumphant return to the Harrison Dragon Boat Festival, tackling windy lake conditions with determination and team spirit.
Read moreA Perfect Summer Gathering: Nothin’ Dragon’s Annual BBQ
With clear skies, warm weather, and great company, the evening was a wonderful reminder of the strong bonds and community spirit that make our team so special.
Read moreNew Motor, An Investment in Safety & Reliability
Captain Bob with the new Mercury!
After more than 25 years of dedicated service, Nothin’ Dragon’s trusty outboard motor has officially retired — and in its place, we’re excited to welcome a brand-new Mercury motor to power our coach and safety boat.
Read moreDouble Bling for Nothin' Dragon at Concord Pacific
Nothin’ Dragon ROCK take bronze in the I Division Final
Nothin’ Dragon Shines at Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival 2025
The energy was high and the paddles were flying as Nothin’ Dragon took on the 2025 Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival—North America’s largest and most celebrated dragon boat events. Over two action-packed days in Vancouver, our paddlers showcased not only strength and spirit, but incredible teamwork, focus, and determination.
From the moment we boarded the school bus for our downtown adventure, the excitement was palpable. Day 1 brought cloudy skies and rain, but our energy never wavered. We stayed positive, and paddled hard. Saturday featured the Senior Cup Knockout and we were excited to take the silver medal.
Day 2 was equally eventful, filled with energetic warm-ups, supportive team huddles, and more strong racing. Team Rock proudly earned a bronze medal in the Division I final, and Team Roll placed fourth in their Division G final, missing 3rd by half a second. Between races, we enjoyed reconnecting with friends, former teammates and soaking up the festival atmosphere before the awards celebration where we took official photos with our medals!
Nothin’ Dragon SENIOR C team takes Silver in the Senior Knockout Final
A huge thank you to our dedicated coach, whose guidance and encouragement helped bring out the best in each paddler. Denise’s commitment to refining our technique and keeping us race-ready played a key role in our success.
Special thanks as well to Henrietta, our team statistician, for staying on top of schedules, race calls, and results—making sure we were always in the right place at the right time.
The Concord Festival reminded us why we love this sport: community, camaraderie, competition, and the thrill of moving forward together.
Great work team Nothin’ Dragon!
Some of our team walked away with two medals!
Race results:
Team Rock
02:41.320 – Race 9 (6th)
02:40.768 – Race 37 (7th)
02:35.961 – Race 73 (2nd)
02:32.224 – Race 100 (Bronze in I Final)
Team Roll
02:36.118 – Race 2 (5th)
02:34.441 – Race 42 (4th)
02:28.586 – Race 78 (5th)
02:29.233 – Race 102 (4th in G Final)
Senior Cup Knockout Race (x 2) – Silver medal
00:30.003
00:30.747
Our fastest mixed team time in 2024 was 2:27.553.
Our fastest mixed team time in 2023 was 2:21.584.
Celebrating Youth Excellence: NDPS Awards Scholarships to Two Outstanding Paddlers
We’re proud of you Priscilla and Jono!
On June 9, 2025, the Nothin' Dragon Paddling Society (NDPS) had the honour of presenting two scholarships to the most deserving paddlers from the Rapid Eagles youth team for the 2024/25 school year.
The recipients were:
Priscilla Hartono, Gleneagle Secondary, Coquitlam
Jona Finch, Riverside Secondary, Port Coquitlam
Student selections were made by the team’s outgoing coaches: Erica McArthur, Riverside teacher and former coach with Nothin’ Dragon, and Susan Priestly, a retired teacher from Gleneagle. Both educators have dedicated countless hours to building the Rapid Eagles into a team of resilience, discipline, and heart.
NDPS president Robbin Whachell was on hand to present certificates and scholarship funds to both deserving students. During the presentation, Whachell reminded the students how fortunate they are to have dragon boat available to them.
“These young paddlers are incredibly fortunate to have access to a sport like dragon boating through their schools. So many students don’t get this kind of opportunity. It’s more than a sport—it’s community, leadership, and personal growth. We’re proud to support them and celebrate their achievements.”
Students of Rapid Eagles high school dragon boat team listen attentively to their coaches at an end of season picnic at Rocky Point Park, Port Moody.
Following the awards, it was announced that both McArthur and Priestly would be stepping down as coaches. Their departure marks the end of an impactful era—but not the end of the youth program. Beginning in 2026, Nothin’ Dragon Paddling Society will take on the coaching responsibilities for the club, ensuring that youth paddling remains strong in the Tri-Cities.
NDPS has long supported the youth team by providing boats, equipment, and mentorship. Now, with coaching moving in-house, the Society is excited to deepen its commitment to youth development through sport.
Congratulations once again to Priscilla and Jona—your dedication and spirit embody everything dragon boating stands for!
Nothin’ Dragon Makes Waves at the 2025 Vessi 500 Championships
Gaile, Vanessa, Steve, Michele, Sharon and Jola at Vessi 500 Championship
May 31, 2025 | False Creek, Vancouver
What a day on the water! Nothin’ Dragon proudly took part in the Vessi 500 Championship—one of Canada’s biggest dragon boat events—held in the heart of Vancouver’s False Creek. With over 100 teams competing, this high-energy regatta brought together paddlers from across the province and beyond for a full day of thrilling races and fierce competition.
We were excited to enter four teams into this prestigious event: two mixed teams (Rock and Roll), our women’s crew (Gals), and our Senior C team.
Despite the signature “Vancouver special” weather—wet and windy from start to finish—our paddlers brought the heat. Each of our teams improved their times throughout the day, staying focused, motivated, and united.
The highlight of the regatta? Our Senior C team paddling their hearts out in the Senior Cup and claiming a solid gold medal against seven other Senior teams! A proud moment for Nothin’ Dragon and a shining example of what dedication, teamwork, and excellent coaching can achieve.
We now return to training as we set our sights on the next big challenge: the Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival at the end of June—North America's largest dragon boat competition.
Stay tuned as we continue our 2025 season with purpose and passion!
Teammates, Donna, Marianne, Martin, Chris, Jenn, Carol, Jan, Marianne, Pamela and Bruce.
Here’s a look at our race results:
GALS
Race 2 2:37.382 5th place
Race 8 2:35.490 8th place
Race 12 2:32.670 6th place (B Final)
SENIOR CUP RACE
1st place 2:22.080
ROCK
Race 20 2:31.840 7th place
Race 25 2:34.340 4th place
Race 37 2:24.330 4th place (Mixed H final)
ROLL
Race 23 2:25.120 5th place
Race 28 2:22.310 2nd place
Race 39 2:17.020 6th place (Mixed F final)
Nothin’ Dragon Steps Up for Crossroads Hike for Hospice
Chris, Donna, Pat and Darlene
What a meaningful morning it was at this year’s Crossroads Hike for Hospice—and Nothin’ Dragon showed up in full force on May 25! Nearly 20 of our team members laced up their sneakers and hit the trails of beautiful Mundy Park in Coquitlam, walking in memory and in honour of loved ones while raising funds for compassionate end-of-life care in our community.
We were proud to be named the 4th largest group donor, contributing approximately $1,200—a true testament to the generosity and spirit of our paddlers. The entire event raised over $79,000, making it Crossroads Hospice Society’s most successful hike to date!
When the event warmup crew no-showed, Nothiin’ Dragon stepped up! (Photo: Teri Towner)
Before the 5K walk began, we were honoured to lead the group warm-up, with our own Darlene energizing the crowd and getting everyone moving with her signature enthusiasm and positivity.
A special shoutout goes to Grace, a dedicated Crossroads volunteer and longtime supporter of our team, for encouraging us to take part in this important event.
We’re proud to support causes that make a difference, and even prouder of our teammates who always show up with heart. Way to go, Nothin’ Dragon!
A group shot upon arrival with a few people missing.
Silver and Bronze for Nothin' Dragon at the FCRCC Knockout Regatta
Michele steered for the first three races (qualifiers and semi) and Bob steered for the knockouts
“Nothin’ Dragon Gals’ first race event!”
Congratulations to our newly created women’s team, Nothin’ Dragon Gals’ who took home a bronze medal in the A Division final at the FCRCC Knockout Regatta 200m dragon boat races on May 10 at False Creek in Vancouver! A big shout out to our rookie steers woman, Michele who did a fantastic job in qualifiers and the semi. Bob steered for the knockout rounds.
It was also an exciting afternoon of racing as our mixed teams Rock and Roll competed. When all was said and done, both teams made it into the B Division knockout final.
Our fastest race time of the day was 0:58.73 by the Roll Team
Team Roll received a silver medal for second place in the Mixed B Division.
Here are the day’s race times:
Race 1
GALS 1:16.30 (4th)
Race 5
GALS 1:11.27 (4th)
Race 8 (Semi-final)
GALS 1:09.69 (1st)
WOMEN’S KNOCKOUT FINALS — GALS take Bronze.
Race 23
ROLL 1:01.39 (4th)
Race 25
ROCK 1:08.96 (5th)
Race 27
ROLL 1:03.02 (4th)
Race 29
ROCK 1:07.53 (5th)
Race 30 Semi-final
ROLL 1:00.72 (2nd)
Race 31 Semi-final
ROCK 1:06.03 (4th)
MIXED DIVISION B KNOCKOUT FINALS
Next on our race event is the Vessi 500 Championship on May 31.
Burnwater Spring Sprint Kicks Off Our 2025 Race Season
Two crews – one dragon boat family! All those that participated at the Burnwater Spring Sprint on May 3.
The Burnwater Spring Sprint on May 3 at False Creek marked Nothin’ Dragon’s exciting return to the water for our first races of the 2025 season — and what a way to start!
We were thrilled to cheer on the Rapid Eagles, the youth team we proudly support as they won in their final race. This composite team of paddlers from Riverside Secondary and Gleneagle Secondary powered their way to an impressive gold medal in the Junior B Division!
Our own teams — Rock and Roll — each competed in three 500m races, showcasing strong teamwork, determination, and early-season energy.
We’re proud to share that Team Roll earned a silver medal in the E Division final, kicking off the season on a high note! Both Rock and Roll teams put in higher times than our 2024 results.
Official photo by Dragonboat BC of Team Roll with their silver medals.
A huge shoutout to our amazing steersmen, Bob, Bruce, Rob and Jason, and our dedicated drummers — Pat, Sandra, Terry and Vanessa — for keeping our crews steady, focused, and in sync throughout the day.
Next up: we race again this Saturday, May 10, at the FCRCC Knockouts — see you on the water! 💪🐉
Here are our Burnwater race times:
Race 1
Rock 2:31:20
Roll 2:26:59
Race 2
Rock 2:34:60
Roll 2:24:523
Race 3 – Rock and Roll in same race (E Division Final)
Rock 2:32:771
Roll 2:22:261
Next we compete at the Knockouts on May 11. Same location. 200m races.
Rapid Eagles Soar to Gold at Spring Sprint
Posing for their official photo at the Burnwater Spring Sprint on May 3, 2025
We’re incredibly proud of the Rapid Eagles, a dedicated high school dragon boat team that trains with the support of Nothin’ Dragon Paddling Society — using our boats, equipment and safety crew.
Led by Erica McArthur, a Riverside Secondary teacher and former Nothin’ Dragon coach, and co-coach Susan Priestly of Gleneagle Secondary, the team is a shining example of youth teamwork, perseverance, and paddling passion.
This composite crew — made up of students from Riverside Secondary and Gleneagle Secondary — recently competed in their first junior race at the Spring Sprint Dragon Boat Festival in False Creek, Vancouver this May.
And they didn’t just show up — they powered their way to a gold medal finish in the Junior B Division!
We’re thrilled to support the next generation of paddlers and can’t wait to see where this incredible crew goes next. Way to go, Rapid Eagles — you’ve made your whole paddling community proud!
Pam and Jason of Nothin’ Dragon stand with their son Marcus.
Twin Paddlesports Honours Youth Scholarship Recipient
Team Nothin’ Dragon join owners of Twin Paddlesport, Shamus and Aiden during the presentation of aVortex 400 paddle to Marcus Farmer seen holding his new gift. Rocky Point Park, Port Moody on Nov. 23.
On Oct. 3, Marcus Farmer, student paddler with The Rapids high school team was awarded our 2024 Youth Scholarship.
On Nov. 23, a special gift: a high-performance Vortex 400 paddle from Twin Paddlesports was presented to Marcus. This presentation took place before our regular training session and was made even more memorable with the presence of Marcus’ parents, both dragon boaters.
Making the presentation was Shamus and Aiden Menard, the owners of Twin Paddlesports, whose generosity made this moment possible.
Paddles up! Left to right: Shamus Menard, Marcus Farmer with his new paddle, and Aiden Menard. Thank you Twin Paddlesports!
This thoughtful gift underscores the valued partnership between Nothin’ Dragon and Twin Paddlesports, who have generously committed to providing an annual gift to our scholarship recipients. Their support highlights the importance of nurturing young talent and fostering a passion for dragon boating.
Congratulations, Marcus, on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you, Twin Paddlesports, for your generosity in supporting the next generation of paddlers!
Paddles up!
Marcus got to try out his new paddle that same morning!
Honouring Remembrance Day at Legion 119
Bob selling poppies along Brewers’s Row leading up to Remembrance Day.
On November 11, members of the Nothin' Dragon Paddling Society gathered to pay tribute to the sacrifices made by our veterans, proudly representing our team at the Remembrance Day ceremony at Legion 119 in Port Moody. BC. This solemn event brought us together in gratitude and respect as we honoured those who served.
Our team captain, Bob Walton, went above and beyond this year, selling poppies for Legion 119, and he had the honour of laying a wreath on behalf of our team during the ceremony.
Marcus Farmer, a member of The Rapids high school team we support.
We were also please to see Marcus in the parade, representing the next generation in commemorating the importance of this day. Joining Captain Bob at the ceremony were Nothin' Dragon members Lori, Trish and John, Steve C, Sandra, and both Pat J and Pat W. Each of us stood together, unified in remembrance.
The Nothin' Dragon Paddling Society is proud to have been part of such a meaningful event and continue to support our community with the same spirit we bring to the water.
Lest we forget.
Bob laid a wreath on behalf or Nothin’ Dragon.
Society AGM and Elections Held
New 2024/25 Executive! Left to right: Linda Corcoran, Sandra Foubert, Denise Nelson, Steven Price, Robbin Whachell, Bob Walton, and Ian Codyre.
Our annual general meeting was held on Oct. 24 2024 at the Old Mill Boathouse to discuss our successes, review our finances, and to vote for our new executive.
The new executive is as follows:
President, Robbin Whachell
Vice President, Steven Price
Treasurer, Sandra Foubert
Secretary, Linda Corcoran
Race Registrar, Denise Nelson
Captain, Bob Walton
Assistant Captain, Ian Codyre
Thanks to all those who step up and support as managers and assistant managers.
The team was formed in 1998 in Coquitlam and trains at Rocky Point, Port Moody. In September 2022 the Nothin’ Dragon Paddling Society was formed. We promote participation, fitness, camaraderie and support community. We also host the annual Inlet Spring Regatta each April.
