The Bay of Plenty Dragon Boat Club has received a $2,000 grant from the NZ Community Trust. This money will be used to cover travel and accommodation costs for the team to attend the Regional and National Championships.
Team captain, Robyn Grantham, expressed her relief, saying that the rising costs of everything made it difficult for some team members to afford to compete. She is glad that the grant will help these women be part of the thrilling world of dragon boat racing.
First season paddler, Rachel Cade, shared her excitement about being able to compete and travel with the team. She said that returning to sports after a long break has been beneficial for her, and she is grateful for the efforts to reduce costs.
The team, based in Sulphur Point, Tauranga, is made up of 37 women who are part of the Bay of Plenty Dragon Boat Club. The grant will help them attend the Auckland Regional Championships and hopefully qualify for the National Championships in Karapiro.
The Bay Dragons applied to NZCT for this funding to support their women in the 2024 Regional and National competitions. These events take several days and require months of hard work and dedication.
Being part of a team and competing at such high levels is empowering for the women. It also helps to strengthen their relationships, both on and off the water. The team includes women of various ages and backgrounds, and for some, it’s their first time being part of a sports team.
Dragon boating has been growing in popularity, and the Bay Dragons have seen significant growth in their numbers. A representative noted the positive impact on the women’s fitness, health, and mental well-being throughout the season.
NZCT’s GM Grants, marketing and communications, Ben Hodges, expressed his delight at being able to support these women. He thanked Cheers Tavern and Judea Tavern for helping to raise the funds that made the grant possible.
