SMALL dragon boat clubs can find it hard to maintain a sufficient number of appropriately qualified sweeps (the person steering the boat) in order to maintain regular paddling sessions and attendance at regattas.
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Such was the case with Narooma Blue Water Dragons in recent months. With sweep numbers dwindling a call was put out to all club members to consider undergoing a training program.
As with any water sport dragon boating does have an element of risk associated with it. Safety is of prime importance and well trained and experienced sweeps are viewed as a major factor in reducing the risks. As a result being a sweep is a big responsibility and not for everybody.
Club president Leck Swadling was delighted when four paddlers stepped up to the plate to undergo training.
“Learning to sweep was initially quite scary but with the incredible instruction, patience and reassurance from sweep coach Peter Essex the nerves settled and my skills and confidence have improved,” trainee sweep Sue Seath said.
“Ed Proudfoot has reinforced Peter's instruction and been very encouraging. There are so many different things to take into consideration when sweeping, the water and weather are forever changing!
“The crew has also been extremely encouraging and supportive, never complaining about the repetitive drills for our training. It truly shows what a great team we have,” she said.
The assessment of the trainees took place on Wagonga Inlet on Saturday. We are happy to report that all four gained their L1 accreditation. This means the new sweeps can captain the boat unsupervised in our local waters – something akin to getting P plates for a motor vehicle. The coming months will see them gain additional experience so they can attempt the next level of accreditation (L2) which will enable them to sweep at regattas in race conditions.
Many thanks go to Rob Turnbull from Dragon Boating NSW who travelled down from Sydney to undertake the assessment. Thanks also to Pat Helmore from Sapphire Dragon Boat Club in Merimbula who also travelled to Narooma to provide her support and assistance.
“With four new sweeps the future of the club is looking good” club captain Julie Melville said.
“We are all looking forward to regular paddling sessions well into the future.”
If you would like to find out more about the Blue Water Dragons or book a seat at one of our Saturday morning “Come and Try” paddles ring 0477 610 953 or email narooma.bwd@gmail.com You can also follow us on facebook.
