Dragon boat events planned for Waterbury Reservoir this summer

June 1, 2023  |  By Waterbury Roundabout 

Aug. 18, 2023 Update - The Aug. 22 and 25 events scheduled for the Waterbury Reservoir have been cancelled. The Dragonheart Vermont organizers put out a message regarding the Waterbury Center State Park saying: “Flooding has impacted the launch and recovery efforts are underway and it’s best we keep out of their way and let them do all the work that needs to be done. Next year! Or just take a leap and join DHVT right now! There’s still plenty of summer paddling left.” See dragonheartvermont.org for more.

Dragonheart Vermont plans Paddle Days at the Waterbury Reservoir this summer. Courtesy photo

Vermont’s renowned group of dragon boat enthusiasts who support breast cancer survivors, Dragonheart Vermont, has free paddle days scheduled this summer for people to try the sport. Reservations are open now for two dates for cancer survivors planned at the Waterbury Reservoir in August. 

Dragonheart Vermont’s Board of Directors Chair is Cathy Buck, a Waterbury Center resident. She said the group held two paddle days in Waterbury last summer that were popular.

According to organizers, dragon boat paddling is the second fastest-growing water sport in the world. Buck says the activity has physical benefits combined with camaraderie. The introductory events also share the history of how an ancient water sport became a recommended path for breast cancer patients. 

The group holds free paddling events during the summer to introduce people to dragon boating. Some are open to anyone who’s ever wanted to try paddling a dragon boat, others are geared specifically for cancer survivors and those undergoing or recovering from treatment. 

Registration is required and is open now. The “paddle days” dates for cancer survivors are Saturday, Aug. 5, at the Burlington waterfront, 9:30-11:30 a.m., and two in Waterbury: Tuesday, Aug. 22, and Friday, Aug. 25, both  5:30-7 p.m. at Waterbury Center State Park. Minimum age is 14 years and all abilities are welcome.

Dragonheart Vermont’s membership committee will host three other events for anyone who would like to try paddling a dragon boat. Those will be at the Burlington waterfront, 5:30 to 7 p.m., on June 8 and 20, and Aug. 8. 

Organizers suggest that participants wear water shoes and moisture-wicking lightweight clothing. All paddling and safety equipment will be provided.

Dragonheart Vermont strives to strengthen and empower breast cancer survivors and supporters through the challenging sport of dragon boating instilling in its members the values of teamwork, fitness and community giving.

More information at dragonheartvermont.org. Find the event registration form here.