Kingston Royals Dragon Boat Club is a prestigious and well-established canoe and kayak club located in Teddington, New Zealand. With a history spanning over 35 years, this club is known for its competitive spirit, inclusive atmosphere, and strong emphasis on team camaraderie. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a beginner, Kingston Royals welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and experience levels.
Dragon boating is a thrilling and rapidly growing water sport, where teams consisting of up to 20 paddlers, a drummer, and a helm compete in both sprint and long-distance races. It is an excellent way to build fitness, endurance, and lasting friendships. At Kingston Royals, the motto is “train hard, race hard, play hard. ” The club trains twice a week on the picturesque Thames River, situated between Teddington Lock and Hampton Court.
As a premier league racing club in the UK, Kingston Royals encourages all its members to train and race, regardless of their level of experience. The club takes pride in its friendly and welcoming environment, which extends beyond the water. Regular social events are organised, either on-site or at local nightspots, allowing members to bond and have fun together.
The Kingston Royals Dragon Boat Club boasts a diverse team of men and women of mixed ages and fitness levels. The club values teamwork and mutual support, both on and off the water. The team is led by Captain James and Vice Captain Anna, who are known as the “Dream Team. ” Tina and Shai, when not on the water, meticulously organise social events to ensure everyone remains engaged and connected.
To support the team's ambitions, Kingston Royals has a highly experienced coaching staff. This includes a Paralympic Canoe Coach, who was recently awarded an MBE for his services to paddle sports, a sports technologist with the British Olympic teams, and a Business Psychologist. Together, they provide expert guidance and help every member achieve their highest potential.
If you're interested in joining Kingston Royals Dragon Boat Club, the process is simple. The club regularly holds new paddler sessions, during which beginners are introduced to the sport and given a safety briefing. Training sessions begin with a land-based warm-up, followed by a team brief from the coaches. Participants then warm up in the water, engage in technical training, and conclude with race practise.
After packing up, the team enjoys tea and cake, providing an excellent opportunity to socialise and get to know other members.
Expect to get wet during dragon boat racing, as splashing is almost inevitable. Changing rooms and showers are available on-site, ensuring comfort and convenience. It is recommended to bring spare clothes, a towel, and a waterproof jacket for colder weather. In terms of fitness, there is no prerequisite to be super fit.
The club welcomes individuals of all fitness levels and supports each member in their journey towards improvement.
To find out more about joining Kingston Royals Dragon Boat Club, simply visit their website or get in touch with them directly. The club is always looking for new members to join their competitive, friendly, and inclusive team. So why wait? Grab your paddle and experience the thrill of dragon boat racing with Kingston Royals.