Training Information
Merlin Excalibur Data Acquisition Paddle
Merlin, a dragon boat gear manufacturer in Australia, has developed a powerful coaching tool called the Excalibur. It's a carbon fibre paddle fitted with strain and positional sensors that allow almost every aspect of a paddler's stroke to be recorded and analyzed. Now paddlers can get timely, quantitative feedback on their strengths and areas for improvement.
As part of our commitment to support the development of Vancouver Island paddlers, the Victoria Dragon Boat Festival Society has purchased a Merlin Excalibur, and is working with our partners, the Gorging Dragons, to ensure local paddlers and teams have access to this exciting technology.
Gorging Dragons Stroke Improvement Clinics
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Take your dragon boat skills to the next level with a clinic hosted by Vancouver Island's top team, the Gorging Dragons, and sponsored by the Victoria Dragon Boat Festival. This is your chance to receive hands-on coaching from some of the country's best paddlers, and to have your stroke analyzed by the Merlin Excalibur data acquisition paddle. Clinics will begin in April. Visit the Gorging Dragons website for more information on dates, locations and how to register! |
Platinum Clinic
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This 3-hour clinic, suitable for paddlers and coaches, will give you the building blocks to a more efficient and effective paddle stroke. The session begins with a dry-land session on stroke technique and theory, followed by an on-water session that includes individual instruction, videotaping, and use of the Excalibur paddle. The session concludes with video analysis and review of the Excalibur data. Cost $40/person. |
Diamond Clinic
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This clinic is geared for more competitive teams that are already using video to improve their stroke technique. Participating teams receive initial instruction in the use of the Excalibur paddle and, following a water session in which each paddler uses the paddle, a Gorging Dragons coach will review the data with each paddler to help them analyze and improve their effectiveness in the water. Cost $25/person. |
Jade Clinic
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Once your coach or team has received training in the use of the Excalibur in one of the clinics above, track your team's progress with a self-directed follow-up session using the Excalibur. Cost is by donation to the Gorging Dragons, plus a $500 refundable deposit. |
Local Practice and Training Information
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The Victoria Dragon Boat Festival is pleased to partner with the
Gorge Rowing and Paddling Centre.
If you are an experienced Paddler or a first-timer wanting to get involved, GRPC offers a full slate of community based dragon boat programs for all ages and abilities. Dragon Boat racing offers a unique team building experience and is a great way to bring individuals together!
Explore the Benefits of Dragon Boating:
- wonderful form of exercise for participants of all physical backgrounds & fitness levels
- opportunity to develop excellent mental skills through diligent focus, timing and discipline
- good form of stress release and improves well-being
- team environment creates strong camaraderie and friendships
- fun way to stay healthy and active in the community
- participation in regular practices and exciting race events
Corporations and organizations should inquire about special Corporate Training Programs available.
For more information, please call
250.380.4669 or click here.
