Calling All Dragon Boat Teams for Dunebrook’s 4th Annual Dragon Boat Races

CALLING_ALL_DRAGON_BOAT_TEAMS_for_Dunebr-2Dragon Boat racing returns to Stone Lake in La Porte on Saturday, September 9 when Dunebrook hosts its 4th annual Dragon Boat Races. The action begins at 9:00 am. Dragon Boat Co-Chair Tim Gartland comments, “The momentum is building as more and more people get to know what dragon boat racing is. Your adrenaline is pumping as you hear the sound of the drum and the teams are racing to the finish line. Whether you’re paddling in the boat or cheering from the shore, the excitement is heart pounding.”

Dragon Boat racing is an ancient Chinese sport that is rapidly gaining popularity in the U.S. The 41’ canoe-like vessels, which Dunebrook provides, are decorated with a dragon head and tail on the bow and stern. A steersman is provided to help teams stay on course. Gartland adds, “Dragon Boat racing requires synchronicity and finesse more than power to win. We’ve had paddlers from age 13 to age 70 paddling on teams.” Gartland recommends Dunebrook’s Dragon Boat Races as a teambuilding activity for businesses, emergency responders, not-for-profits, faith-based groups and municipalities. Friends and family can put together their own team, and the cost is just $72 per team member.” The dragon boat, paddles, life preserver, drum, team bandana and steersman are provided. Teams bring the energy and spirit.

CALLING_ALL_DRAGON_BOAT_TEAMS_for_Dunebr-1Gartland shares “Our teams and sponsors make it possible for Dunebrook to bring this unique event to our community. Huber’s Marine, CLH and Nielsen Automotive Group have supported the Races every year. Lead sponsors are Nielsen Automotive Group, NIPSCO, TKNN GIVES, talk to ted, inc., LifeVantage” and we’re excited to welcome Early Bird teams from American Renolit, LaPorte Hospital, Franciscan Health Michigan City, Journey Church and First Church of God, and CLH, PC and Applegate & Co. CPA's have just come on board.

Event Co-Chair Ted Perzanowski adds, “Spectators can enjoy child-friendly activities and food vendors as they cheer on their favorite team. We’re also holding a 50/50 raffle, and one lucky winner will walk away with a cash prize of one-half of the jackpot. This is a free, family-friendly event, and our 100 volunteers help to make it a fun day for everyone.” Teams race in 3 heats, and the fastest team earns bragging rights and a dragon trophy. Gartland urges teams to send in their registration right away. The form can be downloaded at http://dunebrook.org at the Events tab, or email pam@dunebrook.org. The event is free to spectators and parking is free.