{"id":100642,"date":"2024-08-02T04:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-08-01T18:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/timesnewsgroup.com.au\/ballinatimes\/?p=100642"},"modified":"2024-08-02T13:15:10","modified_gmt":"2024-08-02T03:15:10","slug":"rainbow-dragons-ready-to-roar-at-shaws-bay-regatta","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/timesnewsgroup.com.au\/ballinatimes\/news\/rainbow-dragons-ready-to-roar-at-shaws-bay-regatta\/","title":{"rendered":"Rainbow Dragons ready to roar at Shaws Bay regatta"},"content":{"rendered":"

THE Rainbow Region Dragon Boat Club is gearing up for an action-packed weekend as they host the Rainbow Region Dragon Boat Regatta at Shaws Bay from Saturday 24 August to Sunday 25 August 2024.<\/p>\n

The regatta, an officially sanctioned Dragon Boats NSW event, promises a family-friendly, alcohol-free experience.<\/p>\n

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Rainbow Region Dragon Boat Club members give it their all on Shaw’s Bay. Photo: DAVID COPE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Even furry friends are welcome, provided they stay off the beach and out of the water.<\/p>\n

RRDBC club member Lucille Cooney said this year community teams could also take part in the Community Team Challenge.<\/p>\n

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The team practices their strokes, preparing for the upcoming regatta. Photo: DAVID COPE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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“It’s a lot of fun with dress-ups and a trophy for the best-dressed team,” she said.<\/p>\n

Rainbow Dragons began as Rainbow Dragons Abreast 19 years ago, later evolving into a competitive sports crew.<\/p>\n

The club, currently boasting around 96 members, has competed in various regattas from southeast Queensland to Urunga.<\/p>\n

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The vibrant Rainbow Dragons team synchronizes their paddles during practice. Photo: DAVID COPE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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“We enjoy the social side of paddling, keeping fit, and the competition,” Cooney said.<\/p>\n

“We’ve competed in state championships and nationals, and we’re looking forward to trying out for nationals again next April.”<\/p>\n

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Teamwork at its finest as the Rainbow Dragons prepare for competition. Photo: DAVID COPE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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The upcoming regatta will feature teams from southeast Queensland to Port Macquarie, with novelty races on Saturday, including a flag race and a race for over-70s<\/p>\n

Sunday will see more intense sports racing, with participation from approximately 12 regional clubs.<\/p>\n

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United on land and water, the Rainbow Dragons prepare for the regatta. Photo: DAVID COPE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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The event is expected to attract 300 to 500 people, providing a significant boost to the local economy.<\/p>\n

“Ballina Shire Council’s sponsorship through their festivals and events programme has been fantastic,” Cooney said.<\/p>\n

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Focused and determined, the Rainbow Dragons power through the water. Photo: DAVID COPE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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“It’s helping us involve more community members by offering free participation in the community teams’ paddling.”<\/p>\n

The RRDBC welcomes men and women of all ages and fitness levels.<\/p>\n

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The Rainbow Dragons cut through the water with precision and strength. Photo: DAVID COPE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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The club prides itself on its competitive spirit and camaraderie at local, regional, state, and national competitions.<\/p>\n

For those interested in trying dragon boating, RRDBC will run a four-week beginner program after the regatta.<\/p>\n

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Members of the Rainbow Dragons showcase their skills and teamwork. Photo: DAVID COPE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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For more information about the regatta or joining the beginner program, search Rainbow Region Dragon Boat Club.<\/p>\n