The Dirigo Dragons, Maine’s first competitive dragon boat team, will compete for the first time on September 20 at Lake Winnipesaukee in Laconia, New Hampshire.
Established in 2024, the Dirigo Dragons are members of The Maine Dragon Boat Club, founded in 2023 by Sherri and Brian Otterson. The couple purchased Maine’s first and only dragon boat, offering free community paddles to individuals and groups.
The team practices twice weekly on Norway Lake under certified coaches Linda and Steve Bond, who bring 10 years of dragon boating experience from St. Augustine, Florida.
Dragon boating is a 2,000-year-old sport that is gaining popularity worldwide. The 20-person boat was purchased by the Ottersons to serve both the competitive team and community outreach mission.
“This competition represents Maine’s entry into the competitive dragon boating community,” said team coach Steve Bond.
Coach Linda Bond added, “Our team truly is dedicated to the sport and shows their heart and camaraderie at each practice. We are grateful to the Ottersons for bringing dragon boating to the state of Maine.”
For more information, contact: [email protected] or visit Mainedragonboatclub.org
The Maine Dragon Boat Club is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.