By Luke Voogt
More than 300 paddles will churn up the river as dragon boat clubs from across Victoria flock to Geelong for Battle on the Barwon this Sunday.
“It’s great to be back in the boat this year,” event committee member and dragon boater Margaret Harry told the Independent.
“We had to cancel it last year due to COVID-19. We’re very keen. Come and see some great paddling on the river!”
The event, which began with founder Lauren Vallance organising a social gathering, will this year draw 18 clubs to the Barwon River, according to Margaret.
“It’s known all over the country as BOB,” she said.
“Initially Lauren’s idea was to invite a few clubs down to the river for a paddle. She’s been in dragon boating for much longer than I have – probably 15 years.
“But it’s grown year by year – it’s become quite big and popular.”
The event, running 9.30am to 2pm near Geelong Canoe Club, features 100m sprints and 5.4- kilometre time trials, a barbecue, coffee van and even a gumboot throwing competition.
“It’s not all about serious competition,” Margaret said.
“It’s more of a fun day for dragon boaters.”
The 69-year-old from Rippleside has been part of Geelong Dragon Boat Club for several years.
The club welcomes members as young as 10, who can compete once they reach age 12.
“It’s a great activity for all ages mixed together in one team,” Margaret said.
“There would be a quite a few paddlers around who are 80 or pushing 80, and there’s no problems with their strength and ability.
“It’s a great social sport, which you can do at your own level, and it fits into various other commitments that you might have.”
The sport of dragon boating features teams of 20 rowers, a steerer and, on competition days, a drummer.
“I’ve done the drumming too – it’s not too bad,” Margaret laughed.
Details: dragonboatvictoria.com.au/events/85298
