Open Teams
The Open – Mixed and Open – Women’s divisions are where our most experienced dragon boaters thrive. The Open – Social division is one for those who either do not fit the gender requirements of our other divisions or for less competitive, non-corporate crews.
Other open divisions may be provided dependant on interest and demand, including Masters (paddlers must be 40+), Men’s, Breast Cancer Survivors, and more.
These divisions are for non-corporate crews.
No restrictions on individual team members in terms of employer.
Social division for less competitive, non-corporate entries such as schoolteacher/parent crews.
On race weekend a maximum squad of 25 may be drawn upon to provide the crew of 20 paddlers for each dragon race. Note: drummer and sweep are additional.
Local crews in the open divisions must complete at least 6 training sessions before competing in the festival. There is no upper limit on the number of training sessions.
Out of town teams usually race in one of the open divisions.
In 2024 we will be welcoming local teams to begin training for the Wellington Dragon Boat Festival from Monday the 8th of January. Training sessions occur on the hour starting between 4pm and 7pm Monday - Thursday. Local open teams can sign up for packages that come with a minimum of six training sessions. Once you have registered your team, our festival manager will contact you about booking your training sessions. We provide everything you need for training on and off the water!