Yarmouth Dragon Boat Regatta
Event Information
Welcome to the Yarmouth Dragon Boat Regatta! Get ready for a day filled with exciting races, vibrant community spirit, and charitable giving. Here’s everything you need to know about the event, including the schedule, race format, and the various activities that make this regatta a memorable experience for everyone.
Race Format
The Yarmouth Dragon Boat Regatta features a 500-meter double-elimination tournament, ensuring that each team has at least two opportunities to compete. This format adds excitement to the event and allows teams to showcase their skill, teamwork, and endurance.
Community Engagement and Social Spaces
During the regatta, you’ll find plenty of activities and spaces for socializing and relaxing between races. The second floor of the Lake Milo Boat House will be opened, providing seating and standing room for teams and spectators. The kitchen will be serving a variety of snacks and drinks, creating a welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
Safety and Support
Safety is our top priority. Throughout the regatta, Yarmouth Recreation staff will be on the water in a small motor boat to tow any dragon boats in case of emergency. Lifeguards will be on duty at the Lake Milo Boat House, ensuring everyone’s safety. We provide life jackets and all necessary equipment to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.
Charitable Focus
The Yarmouth Dragon Boat Regatta is more than just a race; it’s an opportunity to give back to the community. Each team nominates a local charity from Yarmouth County, and if they win the regatta, the total registration fees from all teams will be donated to the winning team’s charity. This charitable focus creates a strong sense of community and gives everyone an added incentive to paddle their best.
Date, Time, and Location
The regatta will take place on Sunday August 9th, running from 9 AM to 4 PM. The venue is Lake Milo Boat House, offering a beautiful setting for a full day of dragon boat racing and community festivities.
Team Registration and Requirements
Ready to compete in the Yarmouth Dragon Boat Regatta? Here’s everything you need to know about forming a team, registration costs, and what is required for participation.
Team Composition
Each team must have 20 paddlers, with the option to have a 21st member to act as a pacesetter or drummer. Teams are encouraged to include a diverse group of paddlers, with family and friends welcome to join. Paddlers must be at least 10 years old to participate.
Team Captain and Charity Nomination
Each team must designate a team captain upon registration. The team captain will be the primary point of contact for all event-related communications and will coordinate the team’s logistics. Additionally, teams must nominate a local charity from Yarmouth County. If your team wins the regatta, the total amount of all registration fees will be donated to the charity you choose.
Cost and Payment
The total cost per team is $200, which covers the registration fee for the boat. This fee can be split among the paddlers, with each paying $10. Teams must be paid in full by August 1st to secure their spot in the regatta.
Registration Process
To register your team, you will need to provide the following information:
- Team name
- Team captain’s name and contact information
- First names of all 20 paddlers (plus the optional 21st pacesetter/drummer)
- Nominated charity from Yarmouth County
Registration opens on May 1st and closes on August 1st. Make sure to register early, as spots are limited and tend to fill up.
Team Shirts
Are you interested in ordering team shirts? Contact Yarmouth Recreation to reserve your team’s color! Shirts must be ordered by July 1st with a minimum order of 20 shirts. Team shirts will have the Yarmouth Dragon Boat logo on the center chest with your team name across the back shoulders and the festival sponsors underneath! Shirts must be paid in full by the team before ordering.
Practice Sessions and Training
Before the regatta, teams have the opportunity to book practice sessions through Yarmouth Recreation. This is a great way to get familiar with dragon boat paddling and build team coordination.
Equipment and Safety
All equipment, including life jackets and paddles, will be provided by Yarmouth Recreation. Safety is a top priority, with trained lifeguards and a rescue boat on hand during the regatta. Make sure all paddlers are familiar with basic safety guidelines and follow the instructions of Yarmouth Recreation staff during the event.
