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.

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.