Saturday 7 May 2011

Marsh Meadows, Henley on Thames

Your Invitation

We are hosting our fifth Junior Dragon Boat Regatta in May and would like to invite you to join in the fun again.  We have bigger and better plans this year; more crews, exciting off water entertainment, lighter paddles (phew!), trophies and medals for each winning class plus Best Dressed Crew, Best Crew Name, Most Improved Crew and Premier Girls Crew.

Interact with other paddlers right now on our Facebook page and keep up to date with the latest goings on via Twitter. Check out the action from last years regatta on YouTube too!

Compete In Your Class

• Under 18*
• Under 16*
• Under 14*

*Age as of 01/01/2011 - Minimum age 11 as of 01/01/2011.

Who’s Coming?

Schools, colleges, youth clubs, sports clubs or your group of friends. You will need a minimum of 8 paddlers and 1 drummer, with a maximum of 10 paddlers and 1 drummer per crew entry.  Everyone is welcome and no previous experience is required.

Awaken the Dragon

Before the racing begins we perform the Traditional Chinese Eye Dotting Ceremony to awaken the dragon ready for racing!  This tradition originates in ancient China. Dragon boats used in the annual Dragon Boat Festival were very precious and the heads, tails and drums were taken stored between competitions at the local temple.  Before the next seasons racing they were repainted and made ready for the great events to come. The dragon was allowed to sleep until the day he was needed. On the day of the competition the sleeping dragons are brought to life by dotting their eyes and making them strong for the racing ahead.  

RSVP

Look out for more information early in 2011.  To enter your crew or find out more, email hjr [at] henleydragons.com We hope you make it!