About Us
Our mission is to promote teamwork, camaraderie, endurance, and strength by developing and sustaining a Dragon Boat culture that is both welcoming and diverse. Our intention is to advance our sport by encouraging leadership behaviors in our club members and by paddling with enthusiasm and integrity. Our challenge is to improve our skills and to convey our love for our sport while supporting the Dragon Boat community and the IDBF.
Our Story
The was founded in 2010 by Phaedra Richmond after she moved to Tennessee from Hawaii and California, where she had experience in outrigger canoe paddling. After discovering dragon boating through a local Chattanooga race, she worked with race organizers to learn how to steer and eventually started the club with just 6–8 paddlers. With support from Dynamic Dragon Boat Racing and a local marina, the club steadily grew into a thriving team of over 40 members before COVID.
Known for its welcoming and inclusive environment, the club has always focused on teamwork, fitness, and community while welcoming paddlers of all ages and skill levels. Like many organizations, the pandemic impacted membership growth, but the team continues rebuilding and growing today. The club now practices from April through October with a dedicated core group and a strong focus on expanding participation in the Chattanooga community once again.
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Practice and Skill Levels
What We do
Skill Levels
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Tuesday evening and Saturday morning practices on the water
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Group paddling sessions focused on teamwork and rhythm
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Training to build strength, endurance, and technique
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Preparation for local and regional races
No experience is needed to join.
CDBC welcomes all skill levels and will teach you everything from basic paddling technique to working in sync as a team. Whether you are brand new or have raced before, there is a place for you here.
Interested in trying us out? Learn more about CDBC membership options here
Our Sponsor
A big thanks to our sponsor for supporting us!
If you are interested in becoming a sponsor please contact chattdragonboatclub@gmail.com