Welcome to the Oakville Dragonflies, Dragon Boat Club. We’re a women’s team based in Oakville, Ontario, built around community, teamwork, and a shared love of paddling.
Whether you’re brand new to the sport or looking to compete, there’s a seat in the boat for you. With three teams for different experience levels, it’s easy to get involved. Come join us on the water and see what dragon boating is all about.
One boat. One beat.
What is Dragon Boat?
(… and why you should join us.)
So, what’s Dragon Boat racing all about? Dragon Boat racing is a team sport that anyone can jump into, no matter your age or fitness level.
Picture this: 20 people packed into a boat, paddling in sync while a drummer keeps everyone in rhythm, and a steersperson at the back making sure that we don’t crash. It might sound chaotic, but it’s also part of an ancient tradition that goes back over 2,000 years in China. Back then, it was all about honoring the river gods. Now, it’s one of the fastest-growing water sports worldwide. It came to Canada in 1986 during the Vancouver Expo, and we’ve been hooked ever since.
The boats come in different sizes, but the most common ones are for 10 or 20 paddlers. There’s always a drummer at the front - basically the team’s vibe setter - and a steersperson at the back who keeps us on track. Everyone’s role is crucial, especially when it comes to paddling in sync. If you’re out of rhythm, the whole boat feels it.
But here’s the best part: Dragon Boating isn’t just about racing. It’s about the camaraderie and teamwork that comes with it. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, Dragon Boating is all about bringing people together. Sure, the competition’s fun, but the real joy comes from working as a team and having a good time out on the water.
FAQs
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The Dragon Boat season officially begins on 30 April 2026. All 3 of our teams will be on the water by the first week in May, however the duration of the season differs from team to team, with some of our paddlers paddling until early October. We also offer the opportunity to our paddlers to take part in poolside paddling throughout the cold winter months to keep up their technique and fitness.
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It is not necessary to purchase a lifejacket and a paddle if you are just starting out with Dragon Boat as everything you will need to keep you safe and well equipped is supplied by the club. However, should you decide to continue paddling longterm, it is recommended that you purchase a blue lifejacket that matches with the official Oakville Dragonflies team kit. Inflatable PFDs worn around the waist are also permitted.
Should you ever wish to purchase your own paddle, please familiarise yourself with what is permitted by the IDBF (International Dragon Boat Federation). These paddles are largely available for purchase at festivals throughout Ontario. It is recommended to have your paddle sized for you as it is not a case of one size fits all. -
Our teams take part in many different festivals throughout the season. The number of festivals will vary depending on each respective crew. Festivals are a great way to put into practice what we have learned throughout the season and to showcase our strength and unity as a crew.
We also have several paddlers taking part in festivals further afield. In recent times we have had crews take part in The Ottawa Ice Dragon Boat Festival and we also have a 10 person crew that took part in an International Festival in Puerto Rico (2025) where they won a silver medal. We currently have a team with their sights set on competing in Puerto Rico, 2026! -
It's a watersport, you're going to get wet. Even if it rains, you will find us out on the creek practicing our hearts out. The only time that practice will be cancelled is if there is lightning or the conditions are unsafe. Our coaches are experienced and knowledgeable and will never put us in harm's way. You will be notified of any changes and missed sessions due to inclement weather are generally made-up afterwards.
“Dragon boat races are not won by the strength of the arms, but by the unity of the hearts.”
— Chinese Proverb
Our Playground
We’re pretty spoiled with our beautiful playground here on the creek at the Burloak Canoe Club, in the heart of downtown Oakville. On those perfectly, calm evenings, we love paddling out onto Lake Ontario with the Toronto skyline shimmering in the distance. But when the lake’s not in the mood, the creek has its own charm - foxes, deer, beavers, and raccoons pop by, and the sunsets are truly unforgettable. Whether it's the lake or the creek, every paddle session is a chance to experience something truly special.
Meet Our Team Captains
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Julie van Hemelryck
Thursday Evening - Festival Crew / Experienced
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Elizabeth Pearse
Wednesday Evening - Festival Crew / Intermediate
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Michelle Lindsay-Orsi
Tuesday Evening - Technique / Extra Practice Crew
“A true team player
wants the same amount of light
to shine on everyone.”
— unknown
Dragonflies Go International!
February 2025 saw a few of our paddlers take flight to the sunny shores of Puerto Rico, trading Canada’s icy temps for tropical waves and sunshine as they headed to the Puerto Rico International Dragon Boat Festival!
This team surely did us proud!
Want to see what we’ve been up to? Follow us on Instagram!
Sponsorship.
Hey Oakville Businesses!
We’re the Oakville Dragonflies, your local community-based Dragon Boat crew, and we’re reaching out to invite you to be part of something awesome. Our team is all about connection - both on the water and with the people who make Oakville special, like you! Supporting local isn’t just a buzzword for us; it’s what keeps our paddling community strong and thriving.
By sponsoring our team, you’re not just helping us across the water - you’re getting your name out there too! With exposure at local and regional races, your brand will be seen by a wide audience. Plus, your logo will look fantastic on our training jerseys, banners or tents. (Talk about visibility!) It’s a great way to show that you’re invested in our community, and let’s be honest, it’s also a pretty cool sport to be a part of.
So, if you’re ready to partner alongside us, we’d love to chat about how we can support each other. Let's do this together! One Boat, One Beat!