Twin Paddlesports Honours Youth Scholarship Recipient

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.

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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!

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Marcus got to try out his new paddle that same morning!

Honouring Remembrance Day at Legion 119

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.

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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.

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Bob laid a wreath on behalf or Nothin’ Dragon.

Society AGM and Elections Held

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.

NDPS Youth Scholarship Presented to Marcus Farmer

On October 3, 2024, Nothin' Dragon Paddling Society had the privilege of presenting a scholarship to Marcus Farmer, the most deserving paddler from the Rapid Eagles for the 2023/24 school year. Marcus not only showcased exceptional dedication to dragon boating for his school, but he also frequently lent his skills to support our team as a talented steersman.

The student selection is made by the youth team’s coaches, Riverside teacher, Erica McArthur, former coach to Nothin’ Dragon; and Susan Priestly, a teacher from Gleneagle.

Miss McArthur was on hand for the presentation of a cheque and certificate, and mentioned Marcus’ dedication, in particular, that he leads the Dragon Boat Club table to solicit students to get involved in the sport.

“His commitment, leadership, and passion for the sport are truly inspiring,” said NDPS president, Robbin Whachell. “We are excited to see where his bright future in dragon boating takes him.”

Congratulations, Marcus. We are so proud of you!

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A shot of Marcus steering the Dragonfly for Nothin’ Dragon against the international vessel, Argent Aster.

About the youth team, Rapid Eagles: The team is made up of students from Riverside and Gleneagle secondary schools in Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam. They now compete under the name, The Rapids and they’ve been making waves in the youth division at Concord! Nothin’ Dragon is proud to provide the students with our boats and equipment as they continue to thrive.

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Celebrating a first place race at Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival on June 25. Linda Corcoran from Nothin’ Dragon on steer. Marcus is in the front right stroke position.

Bronze Medal at the Oddball Fall Classic

Nothin’ Dragon entered one mixed team in the Oddball Fall Classic on Sept. 28 held at False Creek, Vancouver.

This event featured three exhilarating 200m races and despite windy and cool conditions, the team did very well, ending up with a bronze in the F Division Final!

Not only that, Nothin’ Dragon improved on last year’s fastest team time of 00:56.184.

Race results:

• Race 8 – 0:57.962 (6th)

• Race 15 – 1:01.998 (3rd)

• Race 26 – 0:55.137 (3rd)

Thanks to Coach Denise for having us race ready, tent transportation and setup by Michele and Brent, results and warmup management by Lori and to our drummer Trish and steers Rob and Warren for guiding us down the water.

Successful Safety Session Held at Old Orchard Beach

What an invigorating morning it was at Old Orchard Beach on September 21st! With calm waters and no wind, 23 of our paddlers gathered to take part in our fall safety session—a vital part of keeping our team safe, strong, and prepared for anything.

Team safety is our top priority, and this session gave us a chance to practice essential drills while bonding over a shared experience of teamwork and resilience.

A huge thanks to Donna for organizing this successful session—your dedication keeps us all afloat! Special shoutout to Denise and Neil, who were our brave rescuers, ensuring everyone was safely back in the coach boat. Speaking of brave souls, let's not forget Linda, who deserves a medal for spending nearly the entire session in the water, flipping the boat and getting us all back on track.

Our boat was tipped and righted multiple times, led by the skilled hands of Ian and Rob V.

While safety is serious, the energy was high, there was loads of laughter, and spirits were even higher. Every flip, rescue, and recovery brought us closer as a team, reinforcing the importance of trust, communication, and quick thinking on the water.

Thank you again to everyone who participated and made the morning a success. As we head into the fall, let’s carry these lessons with us and continue paddling with confidence. Nothin' Dragon is more than just a team—we’re a family that looks out for one another, on and off the water.

Stay safe, stay strong, and paddle on!

Penticton Race Weekend Recap

We had perfect weather for the Penticton Regatta from Sept. 6 – 8! The waters were smooth and there was no wind.

Thanks to those who went out to the park on Friday night to set up the tents. We had a great spot under some trees close to the water spray park which gave us lots of privacy, a great open space for warming up, spreading out, staying cool and relaxing between races.

Friday night was enjoyed by all those that were staying at the Riverside Motel and others that dropped by to enjoy our traditional appetizers and drinks.

Saturday was a beautiful morning with still waters. Lori and Robbin stepped in as managers for the weekend and kept track of our race times, results, gathering everyone for warmups and just being there to support. Warmups were led by Darlene with great music by DJ Grace. In our down time, we enjoyed the ambiance of Dale’s saxophone playing.

Congratulations to Dave F for steering a fabulous slalom down the race course finishing us in 10th place in the Steers Challenge. Dave’s expertise, focus and dryland practice prior to the race proved successful. Everyone had fun paddling the 1000m and many experienced it for the first time.

BIG thanks to Sandra for organizing the potluck barbecue for Saturday night. Over 60 paddlers enjoyed the potluck and BBQd chicken, burgers, smokies and grilled salmon. We were happy to invite the Draggin Divas to join us so that the teams from Rocky Point could enjoy an evening of food, drinks, socializing and dancing. Rob V was also able to join in on the fun as his team was also staying at the motel. The potluck food was endless and extras were brought to the race site for Sunday enjoyment.

There was potential for a thunder and lightning storm on Sunday, but races sped forward and ahead of schedule to keep us ahead of any impending storm which helped finish the racing early. We packed up in our usual quick fashion and headed to the beer garden for a much deserved and rewarding cold drink while eyeing the black clouds in the distance. As always, this venue never fails with spectacular beach side/water views for both racers and spectators, numerous vendors and food options.

No bling or coveted “sticker”, we know we gave it our all, and we had smiles on our faces at the end! It was a first for us to make it into the Platinum (highest) Division. We made it into the top 8 of 24 mixed division teams. Here are our race results:

• Race 1 – 2:18:56 2nd place

• Race 2 – 2:20:87 2nd place

• Steers Challenge – 3rd out of the gate, finishing 10th out of 20 teams with a time of 6:33.17

• Race 3 – 2:23:10 4th in the Mixed Platinum Semi 1 Final

• Race 4 – 2:19.56 4th in the “B” Platinum Final

It was a fun weekend, with fabulous races and excellent times. Thank you to Dave F and Bob for steering us down the race course and for Trish on the drum seat yelling encouragement to dig, dog fight and finish!

We appreciated our large group of cheerleaders and family members who joined us for the weekend: Joan, Elaine, Sara, Stuey, Isla, Karen, Susan, Scott, Ronnie, Brent, Paul, Carol, Mary, John and Sophie! On Saturday we also had Robbin’s sister and nieces, one with her 10-day-old baby; and David Wood’s daughters drove in from Vernon.

Thanks to Coach Denise, who put a lot of time and effort into our training and lineups. We felt we did her proud while she was off at the World’s in Ravenna, Italy winning medals in every race with her teams – showing us how her hard work and dedication to dragon boating has successfully awarded her and NDPS. Huge thanks to Linda who filled in for Denise while she was away.

Great Times at FreshCo Richmond

We had a fantastic time in Steveston on August 24 at the FreshCo Richmond Regatta!

Last year we attended and never made it out on the water due to the crazy weather. This year we arrived to rain, but by the time of our first race, rain had lifted. The weather improved as the day progressed.

We were given a sweet team tent spot right by marshaling which was a rare treat.

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Coach Denise gives a pre-race talk at the start of our day.

Both of our assistant captains were not able to attend this event, but Sandra (past captain and now our treasurer) stepped up to take on the lead with much enthusiasm. Steve P led some wonderful warmups to invigorate us for each upcoming race. Dave F and Bruce kept us true down the course with great race calls by our drummer, Trish.

Although we didn't medal, we put in some of our best race times in our first two races and made it into the C Finals racing against two very young teams!

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Hangin’ out before our first race. Weather got better!

Our race results were:

• 2:12.28 (Race 15)

• 2:13.61 (Race 20 ABC Semi)

• 2:28.38 ( Race 43 C Final)

• View official race results

“Congratulations to the FreshCo Crew, finishing 15th overall in the Mixed Division (of 49 teams)!” said Coach Denise. “In 2018 we were 17th in the Mixed Division.”

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Thank you Henrietta!

Thanks to our race stats manager, Henrietta Hamming we’re able to report that race times in this event, ranked among some of our best ever!

“This is a testament to the excellent coaching we receive,” said Nothin’ Dragon Paddling Society president, Robbin. “Our records show that our women did a 500m in 2:14.22 at Penticton in 2023. In 2013 at the Rio Tinto Alcon (Vancouver Dragon Boat Festival) our mixed team did 2:10.71; and in 2019 at Victoria our Nothin’ Dragon mixed team did a remarkable 2:07.265 in their first race, 2:10.86 in their second race, and 2:14.23 in the third race. It’s not about bringing in the bling, but about progress as a team, and race results are the best gauge to show that.”

Nothin’ Dragon only entered one mixed team this event, so this gave the opportunity for some of our teammates to help on other teams. Congrats to Marg and Marjorie who earned a silver medal for helping a mixed Dragon Hearts team get to the J Final; and to Lori, Kirsten and Linda for helping Butts in a Boat get a gold medal in the F Final; and to Coach Denise whose team took Gold in the Women's Division A.

View our Facebook photo album.

Our next race event is in Penticton on September 7 and 8... Back to training!

Recreational Paddler Added to Membership

Thanks to the inspiration of Nothin’ Dragon alumnus, Ric Tesan, in 2023, the Alumni Paddle was formed and quickly morphed into our Recreational Paddle in 2024.

This is a casual paddle opportunity for our alumni to get back in the boat and keep enjoying the sport.

The creation of a recreational membership, was voted in during a Nothin’ Dragon Paddling Society meeting in 2024, and allows those over 50 years and new to dragon boat to give it a try.

It also assists existing Nothin' Dragon teammates to get more time on the water, recover after injury, try new positions, and build leadership.

The ‘rec paddle’ takes place on Wednesday mornings at Rocky Point Park.

A big thank you to teammates, Steve Mason who has helped with this endeavour from inception, and to Michele Joel and Bev McKenna, our rec paddle manager and assistant manager.

Interested in joining us in 2025 and beyond? Email us at nothindragonmasters@gmail.com to inquire about membership.

Celebrating Success: Paddling Society Awarded Rotary Club Community Grant!

We are thrilled to announce that the Nothin' Dragon Paddling Society has been selected as a recipient of the prestigious community grant from the Rotary Club of Port Moody. This exciting news arrived in July, marking a significant milestone for our organization and the community we serve.

Empowering Youth Through Water Sports

The grant will be instrumental in our efforts to introduce more youth to the exhilarating world of dragon boat paddling. These funds support transformative experiences that foster teamwork, resilience, and a deep appreciation for water sports.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we look forward to 2025, the grant will specifically support initiatives geared towards local students. We aspire to create lasting impacts in the lives of young participants.

A Heartfelt Thanks

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Rotary Club of Port Moody for their generous support and belief in our mission. Their commitment to community development aligns perfectly with our vision of promoting health, wellness, and camaraderie through dragon boating.

Together, let's continue to make waves and inspire the next generation of paddlers!

About Nothin' Dragon Paddling Society

The Nothin' Dragon senior team is based in Port Moody, B.C., and operates under the Nothin’ Dragon Paddling Society. Paddling off the shores of Rocky Point Park, the team promotes participation, fitness, camaraderie and community spirit. Nothin’ Dragon has approximately 65 members and supports The Rapids dragon boat high school team made up of students from Riverside and Gleneagle Secondary.

Senior C Silver Medal at Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival

Nothin’ Dragon attended the 36th annual Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival in Vancouver’s False Creek on June 22 and 23. The weather was mild with calm water conditions. Many were concerned about the recent sewage spill into False Creek but everyone was conscious of the precautionary measures.

Team Rock and Team Roll competed with consistent times and great effort, enough to earn noteworthy times in divisions with teams young enough to be our grandchildren. It was exciting to race among 220 teams from across Canada, the USA and Australia in the largest dragon boat event in North America.

Day 1 was momentous, as our Senior C team took silver in the knockouts as we raced in honour of our late teammate, George MacLeod. It was wonderful to have George's sister Jeanie out as well as John (George's childhood friend), both past members of Nothin' Dragon.

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We raced for George that day! It was wonderful to meet his sister Jeanie (left) and old friend, John, who both used to paddle for Nothin’ Dragon.

“Shout out to Roy,” said Assistant coach Bob, “who had some members in tears of joy when he said it was the first time in 17 years that he participated in a Senior C race.”

In 2024, the decision to enter the knockout was at the last-minute so we could only enter one team, but we plan to reconvene the usual two-team roster in the senior event next year.

”Team bonding was at the forefront and the beer garden was well attended,” said Bob. “It was a perfect time to enjoy camaraderie, dancing, and then those in the senior team took to the ceremony stage to receive their medals.”

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Team Rock during at debrief in the paddlers’ village.

A huge thanks to teammate Henrietta who stood in line for our medals as well as kept us updated on our results and advancements!”

What happens on the bus stays on the bus! We enjoyed a lively return back to Port Moody from Vancouver thanks to newbie teammate, DJ Grace who kept us entertained with ‘Rock and Roll’ tunes living up to our new names!

”I thank each of you for your team spirit and the support you showed to one another over the weekend,” said assistant captain Bob. “Our next major event will be our team BBQ in early July.”

REPLAY! You can check out the livestream replay of both day on their YouTube channel:

• Livestreams on Concord Youtube channel

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Team Roll waiting on the docks at False Creek.

Here are our team's race results:

Team Rock

2:38.079 – Race 12

2:27.553 – Race 50

2:31.620 – Race 73

2:31.838 – Race 101 (Mixed I Final)

Team Roll

2:46.215 – Race 6

2:27.706 – Race 42

2:33.030 – Race 78

2:32.987 – Race 102 (Mixed H Final)

Senior Cup Knockout Race (x 3)

0:31.751

0:31.659

0:32.898

COMPARISON 2023 to 2024

2024 Concord Fastest Times:

ROCK 2:27.553

ROLL 2:27.706

SENIOR C: 0:31.659

2023 Concord Fastest Times:

MIXED BLACK 2:21.584 (1st in G final)

MIXED RED 2:35.496 (8th in F final)

SENIOR C 0:30.036 (3rd)

WOMEN 2:39.215 (2nd E final)

OPEN 2:03.637 (6th in B final)

Vessi 500 Championships Recap

The weather cooperated providing a cloudy cool day on June 1 with calm waters for racing at the Vessi 500 Championships dragon boat festival in Vancouver at False Creek.

Thanks to all who attended, with special mention to Brent J for early a.m. tent delivery.

Coach Denise was again tasked to put together teams with last minute roster changes.

Congrats started early with a couple of golds 🥇 being won by related Womens teams. The Rapids youth team we support also medaled.

Teams Rock and Roll took to the water in race 6 with team Roll bettering Rock by 9 seconds.

Team Rock worked on improving focus throughout the day and in the F Final just missed a third place medal by .5 of a second.

Team Roll progressed to an amazing D final which had 1st place boat far ahead and then a 7 boat cluster fractions of a second apart, (Roll came in 6th place), all in the 2 min and 21-23 second range. Well done all!

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Race results:

Race 6: Nothin' Dragon Rock – 2:34.065
Race 6: Nothin' Dragon Roll – 2:25.790

Race 14: Nothin' Dragon Rock – 2:38. 681

Race 15: Nothin' Dragon Roll 2:29.179

Race 22: Nothin' Dragon Rock – 2:31. 600 (Division F)

Race 24: Nothin' Dragon Roll – 2:23.219 (Division D)

Compare to 2023 Results

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Dragon Boat Experiences are Back!

“From fitting equipment to exhilarating paddles, Enterprise Truck Rental’s Dragon Boat experience was an incredible journey of teamwork and excitement. ‘Best team event ever!’ echoed through the evening, as we bonded, synced, and soaked in every moment. With heartfelt thanks to the entire team, this unforgettable adventure will be shared far and wide. What a rush, that was so exciting!”

— Enterprise Truck Rental

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The crew from Enterprise Truck Rental

After a hiatus, Nothin Dragon is back in action, bringing exhilarating dragon boat experiences to eager participants.

On May 4, the Talitha Koum Society enjoyed a memorable paddle, followed by Enterprise Truck Rental on May 7, immersing themselves in the art of dragon boat paddling under the leadership of the Nothin’ Dragon’s Coach Denise surrounded by the scenic beauty of the region.

During May, Nothin' Dragon has been hosting high school groups from School District 43's CABE (the Coquitlam Alternative Balanced Education) and the Encompass Program, as well as middle school groups from Ecole Moody Middle School of the Arts. Until the school term ends in June and once students return in September, Nothin' Dragon will be hosting more school groups for these educational and thrilling experiences on the water. We are also excited to be hosting Professional Development Day Dragon Boat Experiences for educators in the coming months, as a way of demonstrating potential dragon boating field trips for their students. We also host corporate team-building events.

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It was a pleasure to take the ladies from Talitha Koum Society out on a dragon boat experience last Friday! This paddle was sponsored by Centrum Solutions.

Behind the scenes, our dedicated boat booking manager, Dale Bryant, along with his assistant, Carol Argue, have been diligently orchestrating and coordinating these outings, ensuring seamless and unforgettable adventures for all involved.

Past president, Brian Kenny, a retired school counsellor, is the event narrator and provides educational and enlightening information during rest breaks on the water. Coach Denise adds her expertise and makes even the novice paddler feel confident during the experience.

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Dragon boat experiences build teamwork!

It’s a team effort! Thanks to all our teammates who come out to ensure boats are ready, guests are greeted and suited with PFDs and paddles, and are there to lead from the drummer’s seat, drive the safety boat or help with the stroke in the boat.

Nothin’ Dragon extends its heartfelt appreciation to the sponsors who make these outings possible, including Centrum Solutions, Mama Said Pizza, Pajo’s Fish & Chips, Pasta Polo Coquitlam, The Coquitlam Grill and Save on Foods Coquitlam.

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Thank you Pasta Polo Coquitlam for fueling our dragon boat team with mouthwatering pizza before we conduct our dragon boat experiences! Your support keeps us energized and ready to conquer the waters.

Interested in a Dragon Boat Experience? Contact us at nothindragonmasters@gmail.com to learn more.

Bronze for Nothin' Dragon at the FCRCC Knockout Regatta

“Historic First in the Mixed A Division”

Congratulations to Nothin’ Dragon’s team Rock who took home the bronze in the B division at the 2024 FCRCC Knockout Regatta dragon boat races on May 11 at False Creek in Vancouver!

It was an exciting day of racing as teams Rock and Roll competed in 200m races.

Despite no bling, team Roll enhanced their times throughout the day and made it into the A Division final with Nothin’ Dragon’s best time of the day of 0:55. 826! This is the first time Nothin’ Dragon has made it into a Mixed A Final.

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This was a great enhancement from last year’s times and placements. In 2023, Nothin’ Dragon took at gold in the C Division.

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Bronze in the Mixed B Division for Nothin’ Dragon Rock

Here are the day’s race times:

Race 5
ROLL  1:01.407 (3rd)

Race 8
ROCK 1:02.033 (4th)

Race 15
ROCK 1:04.122 (5th)
ROLL 1:00.251 (3rd)

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Team Roll made it into the Mixed A Division final with a time of 0:55.826, the fastest time for our team for the day.

Mixed B Knockout Race 1
ROCK 0:57.341 (5th)

Mixed B Knockout Race 2
ROCK 0:56.473 (4th)

Mixed B Knockout Race 3
ROCK 0:57.501 (3rd)

Mixed A Knockout Race 1
ROLL 0:55.826 (Knocked out)

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3rd place Knockout finiish for Nothin’ Dragon ROCK in boat 5. (Photo: Mandy Daly)

Next on our race schedule is the Vessi 500 Championship on June 1.

Our 2024 Race Season Opens with the Spring Sprint

The Burnwater Spring Sprint dragon boat event on May 4 at False Creek put Nothin’ Dragon on the water for our first races of 2024.

It was exciting to arrive, and shortly after, hear that The Rapids, the youth team we support from Riverside Secondary and Gleneagle Secondary took a gold medial in the B Division!

Our teams Rock and Roll had three 500m races each that day. The second race was a challenge as the currents changed with the tides and winds were high.

Special mention to our steersmen, Bob, Bruce, Brian A and Warren; and drummers Carol and Terry who kept our teams on course and focused.

Here are our race times: 

Race 1
Rock 2:29:370
Roll 2:34:703

Race 2
Rock 2:41:771
Roll 2:43:850

Race 3 – Rock and Roll in same race 
Rock 2:39:069
Roll 2:39:786

Next we compete at the Knockouts on May 11. Same location. 200m races.

The Rapids Return to Dragon Boat

They're BACK!

Nothin' Dragon is proud to support the Rapids, a composite team of high school students from Riverside and Gleneagle in Port Moody and Coquitlam.

The team uses our equipment and boats and get out on the water (even in the rain) once per week. The students are led by Riverside teacher, Erica McArthur, former coach to Nothin’ Dragon. and Susan Priestly, a teacher from Gleneagle.

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Coming in to the dock at Rocky Point Park, Port Moody. On steer is Linda Corcoran of Nothin’ Dragon.

Great Attendance at Annual Safety Session

Each year our team Nothin’ Dragon holds a safety session at City Centre Aquatics Complex (CCAC) in Coquitlam’s city centre.

On The session serves as a review of what to do should the boat capsize. We also review the fitting of our life vest or pfd, and learn other safely procedures. While the session is done predominantly for our new members, it’s a great refresher for long-standing members.

27 paddlers attended the safety session on Feb 15, which may well be a record attendance.

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"The session went well and quickly,” said our safety manager, Bob Walton. “Many thanks to those attending for helping each other in the lesson, and to Neil and Donna Nyberg who ran the show and provided the canoe. Thanks to all the helpers, in and out of the pool, in particular Randy, Dave S, Brian A, Brent, Michele, and Christine. Alumni, newbies and regular paddlers all contributed to a valuable team building exercise."

Thank you Bob, for coordinating this session!

Yellow Dog Brewing Thanked for Years of Sponsorship

Yellow Dog Brewing has supported our team Nothin’ Dragon since 2014, as well as our event, the Inlet Spring Regatta since 2019, and we were long overdue on a formal thank you.

On November 20, teammates donned our race jerseys or Inlet Spring Regatta wear and enjoyed a cold one in the Yellow Dog tasting room.

Thank you!

As a token of appreciation, a plaque was presented featuring our last group photo and an Inlet Spring Regatta woodal.

Our team will also support a dragon boat experience for the staff of Yellow Dog in the new year when the weather warms up.

“Yellow Dog has been there for us shortly have they started their business,” said Brian Kenny, It’s wonderful and we’re lucky to have an establishment like this, that supports our sport and community efforts. Thank you Yellow Dog!”

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Remembrance Day Wreath Laid

As Canadians gathered across the country for Remembrance Day memorials, Donna Nyberg and Bob Walton represented our team in paying respect at the Port Moody Legion 119 on November 11, 2023.

Thanks also to those from the team who sold poppies earlier in the week. Donations of well over $1000 were given to the Legion.

New President for Nothin' Dragon Paddling Society

In 2023, Nothin’ Dragon turned 25 years as a team, and since 1998, there have been only two presidents. The initial leader was actually Ann Hensel who was labeled team coordinator until Ron McPherson took on the role of president and he held the position until Brian Kenny took over in Nov. 2011.

Brian announced his resignation at the team’s general meeting in Spring of 2023, and since that time, team chatter was abuzz with everyone trying to figure out who should be their next president. A survey was also put out by the executive to canvas the team about who they felt would be best to lead.

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THANK YOU outgoing president, Brian Kenny! Brian holds up a painting gifted by teammates.

While most expected the vice president, Brent Murphy to take the role, he announced he was unable to. At the annual general meeting in October 2023, Robbin Whachell (team captain) accepted the nomination for president being the only person whose name was brought forward.

Brian was thanked for his years of service to the team with accolades and gifts and will remain past president on the executive for the next year, guiding Robbin in her new role.

“When I put my resignation on the floor it was an emotional time for me,” Brian said. “I was going to leave sooner but COVID hit and I felt I could still offer support to keep the team alive and functioning. We survived and that was my signal to step down. An organization always needs new input from the top and Robbin's name came to the top of my list. Knowing that Brent would not accept the role, I approached Robbin who was reticent to take it on given her time to numerous organizations. But it is that fact that made her the obvious candidate because she is energetic, forward-thinking, and a people person. She is a trailblazer and will take us as a team to new heights. We are in good hands.”

Both have worked closely over the years, first when they helped organize the Coquitlam Crunch Challenge from 2016 to 2019 and most recently the team-driven event, the Inlet Spring Regatta (2018 to present), which is held each April at Rocky Point Park.

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Robbin and Brian during the Coquitlam Crunch Challenge in 2019

The Nothin’ Dragon Paddling Society was formed in 2022, and Robbin is no stranger to non-profit Societies as she served two terms as president of the Hoy/Scott Watershed Society in Coquitlam. She also sits on other society boards related to sports or community service.

“I’m looking forward to working closely with our executive to find ways to enhance or improve the Society’s operations and see how we can grow as a club,” she said.

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Two days after the AGM, Brian and Robbin share a toast at the team’s Oktoberfest fundraiser.

The 2023/24 executive is comprised of the following:

• President, Robbin Whachell

• Past President, Brian Kenny

• Vice President, Brent Murphy

• Treasurer, Wilhemina Savage

• Secretary, Linda Corcoran

• Race Registrar, Denise Nelson

• Captain, Sandra Foubert

• Asst. Captain, Bob Walton.

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Nothin’ Dragon is an energetic group of men and women who strive to achieve excellence in physical fitness by participating in recreational and competitive dragon boating. We are a motivated group, enjoying an active lifestyle in a friendly, supportive team setting, and contributing to the community by sponsoring, encouraging, and mentoring youth programs. This group is a force that sees potential in every stroke of the paddle.