Get involved
Learn to paddle sessions
We’d love to introduce you to the fun, fast-paced, friendly world of dragon boat racing! Our qualified coaches and amazing members will help guide you through a 4 week course for just £10. We’ll even give you a free team t-shirt if you sign up after the 4 sessions!
When
Sunday mornings: From 10am, all year round!
Wednesday & Friday evenings: from 6pm, during summer hours
We train all year round, in all weathers, as long as the conditions are safe.
Where
We meet at St Neots Rowing Club, The Priory, Priory Lane, Saint Neots PE19 2PZ
We are located behind the Priory Centre and you can park in St Anselm Place Priory Car Park or Waitrose (fees do apply on weekdays before 6pm)
What do I need to bring?
Please ensure you’re wearing warm and comfortable clothing – something you don’t mind getting wet!
Wear a pair of old trainers or water shoes on your feet – no flip flops, sandals or bare feet though.
You will also want to bring a water bottle, mozzie spray and sun lotion, especially in the summer months.
We can supply wooden paddles and buoyancy aids, but feel free to bring your own gear if you have it.
Frequently asked questions
How do I join?
Simple! All you need to do is contact a member of the clubs committee, details of which can be found on the contact us page, or send us a message on Facebook and we’ll arrange for you come to a session.
Do I have to be really fit to join in?
No is the simple answer.
Everybody has to start somewhere so don’t be put off joining if you think you are not very fit at the moment. The club trains throughout the year and your fitness will soon improve with regular attendance. Plus the training is pretty sport specific so you’ll develop very quickly.
What's it going to cost me?
Annual club membership
- Over 18s: £192 (collected via 12 x £16 payments)
- Under 18s: £96 (collected via 12 x £8 payments)
The membership fee includes general running costs for the club, race entry fees and year-round training on the water. It also provides you with the loan of a paddle and buoyancy aid while you need it!
Additional annual fees
- St Neots Rowing Club membership: £15
- British Dragon Boat Association membership: £35 (this allows you to race in national races as well as train with the club)
How often do you train?
We train all year round, in all weathers, as long as the conditions are safe.
Training in the boat consists of a mixture of technique work, practice races and endurance training. During the winter months we continue to train on the water on Sunday but replace Wednesday night water sessions with a HiiT circuit session at a local sports hall.
What's the age range of your crew?
We accept people from the age of 14 and there is no upper limit! As long as you are reasonably fit and healthy, you can take part.
Where do you race?
Races take place in various locations around the country.
In recent years the club has attended races in St Neots, Liverpool, London, Exeter, Nottingham, Worcester, Preston, Milton Keynes, Bristol, Stockton and Cardiff.
For events that are within a few hour’s drive, the team usually travels early on the morning of the race day. Events that are further afield usually require an overnight stay at a local campsite or hotel, making it a very enjoyable social weekend. We also try and make a long weekend of the National Finals stopping at a very nice hotel just outside Nottingham.
How many times do you race in a year?
The club usually enters between seven and ten race events during the year leading up to the National Finals held at Holme Pierrepoint in Nottingham.
Most races are held on a Sunday, with the National Finals being a 2 day event on the last Saturday and Sunday in September.
Team testimonials
“If you’re looking for an adrenaline-fueled sport that is both challenging and rewarding, become a member today!”
“It’s a big extension of family that envelops you from the moment you first pick up a paddle, it hooks you in. Being given opportunities to be more involved with the running of the team has eventually led me to the here.”
“I love SNDBT team as they are so friendly and welcoming. Very supportive and a great laugh. They really look after me and being part of them stops me from sitting at home getting bored”