Dragon Boats
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Wondering about Dragon Boats? Watch this quick video to find out more!
WHAT: The Annual Northern Nevada International Dragon Boat Festival is hosted by GWN Dragon Boat and Immunize Nevada at the scenic Sparks Marina. More than 20 teams will hit the water and race three 500 meter races throughout the day, while raising money for Immunize Nevada’s life-saving mission. Funds raised ensure people across Nevada can access vaccines, healthcare, and other resources they need to stay healthy.
WHEN: The 3rd weekend of August. Admission is free for spectators, open to the public, and is family friendly. In-between the races check out the marketplace featuring food trucks, retail vendors, community exhibitors, beach activities, and the beer garden highlighting local breweries.
WHO: Teams participate with 16-20 paddlers and 1 drummer, and the minimum age is 12 years old. Experienced or novice, everyone has equal opportunity to bring home a medal and team trophy. Past teams have included Saint Mary’s, NV Energy, Hometown Health, KOLO 8 News Now, Renown, Tesla, Panasonic, RSCVA, OB-GYN Associates, Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health, SMG Reno, Paterson Paper, FirstService Residential, City of Sparks, Northern Nevada HOPES, Rotary Club of Reno Centennial Sunset, Reno Taiko, Cumulus Radio.
WHY: Social groups and businesses alike embrace the sport of dragon boating because it builds camaraderie, supports healthy lifestyle choices, and provides a sense of “team”. Some teams participating are created from local organizations and corporations, while others travel from afar to experience the beauty of the Reno/Tahoe region. No experience is necessary and the sport’s inclusivity means all shapes, sizes and physical abilities can paddle. The festival promotes health and wellness, community engagement, and team building.
PADDLING FOR A CAUSE: Dragon boat teams are not just for fun – you also make a positive impact as a portion of the event proceeds support an important community cause; Immunize Nevada. Creating a better and healthier future for our state has been Immunize Nevada's vision for 25 years and we work every day to prevent disease, promote health, and make healthy futures possible for Nevadans of all ages. Teams have the opportunity to create a pledge campaign, set a goal, and raise additional funds to support our life-saving mission.
BE A CORPORATE OR MEDIA SPONSOR: Sponsorships start at just $2,500 and include a team entry, activation space at the event, pre-race and day of promotions. Media partnerships start at $5,000 rate card advertisement value and include a team entry, activation space at the event, pre-race and day of promotions.
Visit the Northern Nevada International Dragon Boat Festival page for more information or click below to receive information about registration, sponsorship, and vendor opportunities.
What is the Event Schedule?
8:30 am
Racing, Racing, Racing…and MORE Racing
Industry Cup Races11:00 am
Division Semi Finals1:00pm
Division Finals Begin
Award Ceremonies2:30 pm
Grand Final Race
How can I register?
- Solo Paddler: Register as an Earth Dragon and we'll pair you with other paddlers!
- Team: Register as a team of at least 16 paddlers. Early bird deadlines before January 1 and June 1.
- Support a Community Team: Get name recognition for your company, and we'll help fill the boat with community members such as cancer survivors, Boys and Girls Club members, etc. or more information.
Hear what past participants have to say about the event:
"It's a great outdoor event that makes for a fun employee/team building day for other businesses."
"It was a blast, it was different from other local events, and it created a sense of team spirit"
"The event was well organized, friendly competition, (enjoyed) meeting colleagues and partners within the community."
"This was the first time I had ever paddled in a dragon boat, and it was a very friendly environment for my first paddling experience. Very beautiful and peaceful venue. I learned a lot from the practice sessions, and the steerer was very knowledgeable and motivating."
"I really fell in love with the sport and enjoyed myself more than I have in a long time. Thank you for the opportunity."