21/22 DRAGON BOAT NSW SEASON STILL ON DRY LAND DUE TO COVID-19 SITUATION
As the entire state of NSW is in various forms of lockdown due to COVID-19, the Dragon Boat paddling community continues to find itself on dry ground.
The start date for our 2021-2022 season is dependent on the directive from the Office of Sport and NSW Health regarding the resumption of Community Sport. As a result of the recent announcements by the NSW Government we have made the tough, however essential decision, to cancel both Race 1 and Race 2 of the DBNSW Regatta Series – due to take place on the 18th September and 10th October respectively.
This announcement is disappointing for all, however we are committed to getting back on the water as soon as possible and will be restructuring the season calendar to allow for maximum racing. More on that coming soon.
Chief Executive Officer, Tony Henderson said that we need to show unity, trust and understanding to ensure Dragon Boating continues in these testing and rapidly changing times…
“I would like to thank everyone for your perseverance and understanding as we navigate our way through the COVID-19 pandemic and as we grapple with the impact it continues to have to the start of the 2021/22 season. Whilst it was not the start to the season we had hoped for we now turn our attention to the first race of the Regatta Series at Point Wolstoncroft Sport and Recreation Centre on the 27th and 28th November.”
Club entries for the race will open in October via RevSPORT and once available clubs are encouraged to get in early to help us create a timetable that best serves the clubs and paddlers.
In the meantime, we encourage all paddlers to renew their membership with their clubs and to stay engaged as a Dragon Boating community. Many clubs have been holding online events such as fitness classes, trivia challenges and social catch ups to keep their members engaged and their morale up.
DBNSW will also continue to host the PADDLES UP SERIES of online informational sessions on various topics. The next event is “What it takes to be an Aurora” with National Head Coach David Abel.
DBNSW thanks its members and supporters for their patience and understanding. It is our intention to be back paddling as soon as the Public Health Orders allow.
Dragon Boats NSW places the mental health and well-being of all our members as a top priority whether it be on or off the water. If you or someone you know need to reach out and seek support, DBNSW advises contacting either Beyond Blue or Sports Chaplaincy Australia for help.
