​Training

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When and Where:

Wednesdays, May - September

​For those who wish to carpool, we meet at the gravel parking lot north of MACK trucking, off of 1st Street North Hill, Brandon.  We travel from Brandon to Minnedosa Lake (~30 min from Brandon).  Carpool vehicles leave the lot no later than 5:30pm.  We have teammates traveling from Ninnette, Souris, and other surrounding towns.  We all meet at Minnedosa Lake campground beach (by the soccer field) watch for the big red dragon boat!

 

On the Water:

Once we get to the lake we gather our equipment, and prepare the boat.  Next, the team gathers together and does some stretches to limber up.  We line up on the shore of the lake, then separate the left from the right paddlers. Once that is done, the steersperson will divide the team up with left and right paddles and balance out the boat.   The back paddlers are the first to board.  Find out who is sitting next to you, they will be your partner!  At approximately 6:30pm its time to push off out onto the lake!  

 

For the next hour or so we paddle up and down the lake.  During this time we are taught proper paddling methods. Paddling a dragon boat is a great team-building sport.  When we get out there on the lake, with twenty people paddling, you will feel the power of your team. 

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First timers need to arrive at least 10 minutes early!  During this time, we will have you fill out a waiver and size you up for one of our team paddles and a life jacket  You will need sunglasses and bottled drink for on the boat.  Lather on some sunscreen and bug spray before paddling and leave those items in the car.  If you need a hat, be sure it's the type that will not fly off, we can travel pretty fast!  Please do not bring valuables, such as phones and vehicle keys, into the boat.  We have a safe place for such items.

 

At any time you do not feel right, please let your partner know.  Pull your paddle into the boat and stay calm.  If you need to go to shore, please let us know.  

 

After practice we meet for coffee, ice cream and conversation.  Come on out and have some fun!