Frequently Asked Questions

The ATB Financial Lethbridge Rotary Dragon Boat Festival (LRBDF) is one of the largest and favourite summer events in our region and is organized jointly by the Lethbridge Rotary Clubs. For more information about this exciting annual event, check out the LRBDF website.

DASA is a non-profit sporting organization that is contracted by LRBDF to run the practice sessions leading up to the Festival. DASA also operates outside of the Lethbridge Festival. Teams from DASA attend festivals and events all over western Canada and the United States.

Dragon boat racing is a face-paced, dynamic team water sport that began in Ancient China and is now one of the fastest growing sports in the world.  A dragon boat usually involves up to 20 paddlers, a steers, and a drummer who train and compete in a series of races. The long narrow boat features a dragon’s head and tail that symbolize the historical ties to its traditional roots. 

To learn more about the history of this exciting sport, check out the Canadian International Dragon Boat Festival Society’s History & Legends.

DASA offers A Taste of Paddling sessions sometimes in the winter, and definitely in late spring. These sessions are designed to introduce new paddlers to the sport. Check out the Events Calendar to look for the next session. You can also contact the DASA Team Liaison for suggestions. If you want to take part in the Lethbridge Festival (LRBDF), you can also check out their website for how to join a team. 

Dragon boat is a relatively inexpensive sport in most cases.  Check out the DASA fee schedule here (scroll down to fees section). If you are part of a team that takes part in festivals, you will have additional expenses such as festival fees, travel, and practice time.

Dragon boating is a water sport, so be prepared to get a little wet. Wear quick-dry, loose fitting clothes and water shoes. Water bottles are allowed in the boat. Keep your cell phone and keys in a water proof bag. It’s a good idea to keep a set of dry clothes and a towel in your vehicle.

Don’t wear expensive jewelry, including rings, watches, glasses or sunglasses, and/or bracelets. Leave any keys in the safe place provided. If these disappear in the water, they are permanently lost.

No. As a DASA member (or during special events) DASA will lend paddles and pfds (personal flotation devices) that fit almost every size.

Weather cancellations are called by the Technical and Safety Directors. They monitor the weather closely following a strict, pre-determined safety criteria. They send out updates and notifications as soon as possible. They will also post a notice at the lake. Check DASA Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram before you head to the lake, or contact your team manager for other communication methods.

During the summer you might see several dragon boats moored just offshore. The majority of these boats are owned by DASA and are used for team practices and special events. However, other teams and organizations own their own boats and also moor them in Henderson Lake. All boats have specific logos that identify ownership.