Rusty Dragons host open house this Saturday for those interested in dragon boating

By COLE HESSION

Rusty Dragons will be hosting an open house information session this Saturday afternoon to encourage more people to take part in dragon boating. The session will also inform the public about the activity.

Founded in 2005 by local dragon boater Tim MacFarlane, Rusty Dragons Adventures is a non-profit, recreational organization that has teams for people of all abilities and walks of life.

All teams, apart from the Liberty Waves, squad are currently seeking more members. Those teams include the Barracudas, Strokes of Luck, Flying Dragons, We Will Rock You, and Mixed Ability Dragons, as well as Motley Crew.

The open house on Saturday, May 10, is encouraging new participants who have no experience in dragon boating or paddling to give it a try.

During the open house, those attending will be given the opportunity to take a ride in a dragon boat.

“It’s accessible to anyone of any ability, age, gender, fitness level or even disability,” said MacFarlane of dragon boating.

“Many participants are older, and the sport has allowed them to paddle and compete against other ‘senior’ teams at a high level of competition. My paddlers range in age from eight to 84 and are from all walks of life. A team could have a VP of Royal Bank paddling with a high school student. Everyone is equal when on the boat.”

The Rusty Dragons open house will take place at the Outer Harbour dragon boat site at 480 Unwin Ave., on May 10 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

For more on the open house or Rusty Dragons Adventures, please visit the website at https://www.rustydragons.ca/ or contact club manager MacFarlane by phone at 647-971-7332 or via e-mail at tim@rustydragons.ca