After a long and challenging year, the Yarra River Dragons (YRDs) Dragon Boat Club is finally back on the water and ready to welcome new members. We are thrilled to introduce you to Matt Dignan, a new paddler from the North of England who joined the YRDs in November of 2021. Matt is a perfect example of how dragon boat racing can bring people together from all walks of life, as he was introduced to the sport by a friend and quickly fell in love with it.
Matt’s first experience with dragon boating was at the Victorian State Dragon Boat Championships and the Australian Dragon Boat Championships, and he was hooked from the very first race. The thrill and excitement of competing in a 2000m race was something he had never experienced before, and he was amazed at how enthralling it was. For Matt, joining the YRDs was the perfect way to get back into physical activity and socialise with others after the COVID lockdowns.
We asked Matt what advice he would give to anyone who is considering joining the YRDs and he had this to say: “Do it! You won’t regret it! You’ll have a blast, meet new people, and be part of a sport that will keep you fit and healthy.” Matt has found that dragon boating is a great way to stay active and have fun at the same time. Not only does it provide an excellent workout, but it is also a great way to bond with others and form new friendships.
Now, in 2023, Matt is continuing his dragon boating journey with YRDs and taking his journey to the next level – fighting for the opportunity to represent the State of Victoria, and in the future, to be a member of the Auroras – Australian National Team. Recently at the YRDs 10th Year Birthday party, Matt was recognised as the “Rookie of the Year” for his dedication to improvement and a rising star.
“It has been the happiest and most fit in my life and met the most amazing folks!”
– Matt reflcts on his dragon boating journey so far
Yarra River Dragons Dragon Boat Club is a welcoming and inclusive community, and we are always looking for new members to join us on the water. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or just looking to try something new, we encourage you to give dragon boating a try. With the return of in-person training and races, there has never been a better time to get involved and meet your new crew.
We hope that this blog post has inspired you to give dragon boating a try. We can’t wait to welcome you to the YRDs and show you just how much fun this sport can be. Don’t hesitate, join us today and see what all the excitement is about!
This is an extended blog post of the original story published on our Facebook page in May 2022.
Read our latest blogs:
- The Power of Women in Sport – a Dragon Boat Coach Perspective
- Matt’s Exciting Journey with the YRDs
- YRD Members Making Success at the 14th Asian Dragon Boat Championships
- YRD Celebrates 10th Anniversary
- Trish – Our Smiling Assassin!