Do I need to be an experienced paddler to participate?
No experience necessary. In fact, most participants have never picked up a paddle before their first team practice. Due to the size and design, dragon boats are very stable, making them highly suitable for beginners.
How many people do we need to form a dragon boat team?
A full dragon boat team consists of 22 people: 20 paddlers, 1 drummer (who keeps the beat of the stroke), and 1 steer-person (provided by Race Management). Each team must have a minimum of eight female paddlers if paddling in a mixed division instead of the all-female or all-male division. We suggest that each team have up to three alternates in case someone unexpectedly cancels. All teams are required to have a drummer. If you do not have a drummer one will be provided for you on race day, or your team will be assessed a time penelty.
How much is the entry fee?
The entry fee is $750 for corporate teams and $650 for non-profit organizations (must have a 501c3) if registration fee is paid in full by the early registration deadline. After the early registration deadline, it is $800 and $750 respectively. Included in your entry fee is one classroom session and two on-water practice sessions (all equipment included) with a qualified coach.
Who pays the entry fee?
Most entry fees are paid by a company and used as a team building experience or a corporate outing. However, some teams raise the entry fee on their own through sponsorships or by dividing the entry fee among participants.
Do I raise money myself? How much?
Each participant is asked to raise a minimum of $100 in pledges. All pledge money raised by participants directly support the Augusta Alzheimer’s Association.
Who can we contact for more information?
If you have questions or an interest in sponsorship information, please call 866-554-1116.
Is there a deadline to register a team?
Yes, the registration deadline is March 3, 2009.
When is the festival?
Saturday, May 3, 2009
Where will it be?
At Lake Olmstead in Augusta
What is a dragon boat?
The racing boats used are approximately 41 feet long and weigh 550 pounds. Crews sit in twos and paddle the boat as instructed. It consists of the main body of the boat, with a dragonhead at the front and a long tail at the back.
How safe is a dragon boat?
Due to the size and design, dragon boats are very stable. This makes them suitable for participants of all levels.
What are dragon boats made of?
Traditional dragon boats are constructed of wood, while newer boats are often made of fiberglass or a combination of both materials.
Where do you get the boats?
We own them. They were manufactured in China.
Why the drummer?
The drummer is there to keep the beat of the stroke.
How many practices does each team get?
As part of the registration fee, each team receives two practice sessions the week prior to the festival.
Why practice?
Team practices are designed for all participants to become familiar with some of the skills involved with dragon boat racing and make your team's experience more enjoyable. The goal of the event is for participants to have a good time with their teammates and to showcase the unique experience.
How long is each practice session?
Each practice is 60 minutes long. More practice information will be available in your team packet.
Who does the Augusta Dragon Boat Festival benefit?
All pledges support the Augusta Alzheimer’s Association. For more information on their programs and services please visit www.alzga.org
How much do I have to raise?
To make a considerable contribution to the program we ask that all team participants set a minimum goal of $100. Every team member who raises $100 and more will receive an event T-shirt.
Can I pledge myself?
Yes, participants can make their own donations. This is often how paddlers get their start!
When and where do I hand in my collected pledges?
You can hand in your collected pledges anytime prior to the race or on at the event Saturday,. Pledges must be handed in prior to that day to be eligible for prizes. You may do that by contacting Judy Amerson at the ARDBA office at 866-554-1116.
Where can I get a pledge sheet?
Your team captain will receive all pledge sheets with your team packet.
Are there prizes or awards?
Trophies will be awarded as well as prizes for fundraising!
