Donegal Dragons and Dolphins off to flying start as they take home silverware

Dragon boat crews from Donegal got their racing season off to a very strong start, taking home silverware from the first regatta of the season.

Members of Donegal Dragons and their junior counterparts, Donegal Dolphins were taking part in the Athy Regatta on the River Barrow. Run by the Irish Dragon Boat Association (IDBA) on the Sunday of the May Bank Holiday, this is traditionally the first big test for clubs.

The adult and junior crews have been working towards this event for the last few months, and were chomping at the bit to put their race plans into action.

Donegal Dolphins finished second to the home crew Barrow Dragons in the U18 category.

IDBA Chairperson Julie Doyle praised the skill and sportsmanship of the U18 crews saying: “The youth have really demonstrated what the sport of dragon boating is all about. And they posted faster times than many of the adult crews. They should be very proud.”

Donegal Dragons adult crew raced very well in the 200m heats, winning all three of their races and finishing second fastest overall. This qualified them for the Open Final with Dublin Vikings and Kilkenny’s KACC.

This was without doubt the race of the day, with all three crews of 20 paddlers giving their all to huge vocal support from the onlookers on the river bank. Less than a second separated the boats as they crossed the finish line. 

One of Ireland’s top teams, Dublin Vikings were in superb form on the day, and they claimed first place. Donegal Dragons claimed silver, coming in less than half a second behind, with KACC a very close third.

Coached by Grace Meade assisted by Deborah Bonner, this regatta was always going to be a learning opportunity for the club - a chance to see what was working and where improvements could be made. Their form certainly bodes very well for the season ahead.

Donegal Dragons is currently open to new members, and the club has been delighted to welcome a number of new paddlers already this year. 

The sport is open to men and women of all ages and all abilities. Some choose to enjoy social paddling sessions, others love the drive to develop their skills and take part in competition.

The club is proud to accommodate both categories of paddlers while helping people to improve their physical and emotional health.

Dragon boating is particularly beneficial for those who have undergone breast cancer treatment. It is proven to reduce the risk of recurrence and to relieve lymphedema.

However, this is not a criteria for membership. Current members come from all walks of life and they enjoy getting fit together in a fun and supportive environment. 

Photo by ©KateSlevinPhotography

The youth side of the club is Donegal Dolphins. It is open to 11 to 18 year olds and new youth members are also welcome.  

Anyone who would like to find out more can check out the Donegal Dragons Facebook page or email donegaldragons15@gmail.com

Donegal Dragons will host their home regatta on Saturday, July 29. There will be a real international festival flavour to this event, with paddlers from all over the world - including a full crew from Canada.

Dragon boat racing is a wonderfully exciting and colourful spectacle, and this is sure to be a great day out at the Pier in Donegal Town. 

The club is currently fundraising for a new 10-seater dragon boat. Anyone who wishes to make a donation can do so via GoFundMe. Any support would be greatly appreciated.