The sport, established in China almost 2,000 years ago, has become hugely popular around the world and the UAE has caught the dragon fever with a number of teams in Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah and Abu Dhabi.
Since launching in 2009, Admar Barbarians have been a competitive force on home waters and with the new season to begin from September, they are keen to add to their men’s and women’s squads.
“Admar was formed in April 2009 and initially it was a corporate team representing Logistics International LLC,” said captain Jennifer Salangsang.
“But last year it became a non-corporate team representing professionals of different backgrounds.”
Fun-tastic: Those who want to take up the sport can sign up for Dh300 plus a monthly membership fee.
Whether you’ve tried the sport or not, experience does not matter with anyone of any ability welcome to join.
“Dragon boating is a team sport which does not have any star player,” said Salangsang. “Everyone has an equal role to play to propel the boat towards the goal. If you love the thrill of competitions, then you have to try dragon boating. There are a lot of advantages as you can remain active and enjoy a healthy lifestyle, while it will also help you relieve the stress. It’s also a good way to meet new people who all share a common goal which is dragon boating.”
Newcomers can join two free trials on Tuesdays (18:30) or Friday or Saturdays (05:00) at Shangri-La beach, Qaryat Al Beri in Abu Dhabi, before deciding whether they want to sign up for the new campaign for Dh300 plus the monthly membership fee.
“There is no age limit as long as they have the passion, will and determination to wake up early, attend training and push themselves beyond their limits,” said Salangsang.
“Admar Barbarians is a resilient team. We take each challenge as a driving force to be better, stronger and tougher, not only as a team but as individuals. We also have a strong team spirit. We do not claim to be the best but we don’t give up or go down without giving our competitors a good race. A strict discipline on lifestyle and training is enforced, our paddlers give their best in achieving the goal and that is to win. We know how to have fun while also being focused on our goal.”
What: Admar Barbarians dragon-boating try outs
Where: Shangri-La beach, Qaryat Al Beri in Abu Dhabi
When: Tuesday (18:30) and Friday/Saturday (05:00)
Contact: For more information, search their Facebook group (AD Mar Barbarians Dragon Boat Team) or email admar.barbarians@gmail.com