Canberra's Auroras: Australia's National Dragon Boat Team Heads to Germany

In a remarkable display of dedication and athleticism, over 300 of Australia’s top dragon boat paddlers, including 32 competitors from Canberra, are set to represent the nation at the World Dragon Boat Racing Championships in Germany, commencing on July 14, 2025. The national team, known as the Auroras, comprises members ranging in age from teenagers to retirees, all of whom have undergone rigorous training over the past 22 weeks to prepare for this prestigious event.

Dragon boating, a sport with origins tracing back more than 2,000 years to ancient China, has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years within Australia. Teams of 20 paddlers, accompanied by a drummer and a steerer, compete in races spanning distances of up to two kilometers. The sport has not only captivated seasoned athletes but also attracted younger participants, fostering a vibrant community.

Among the Canberra contingent is 16-year-old Jun Lee, who reflects on the challenge of introducing dragon boating to others. “Usually, it’s something like, what is a dragon boat?” he remarked, acknowledging the sport's niche status. Lee began his journey in dragon boating through school initiatives and has since embraced the competitive aspect of the sport with enthusiasm.

The Auroras have been training in frigid conditions on Lake Burley Griffin, pushing through sub-zero temperatures to perfect their techniques. Sam Thompson, a former rugby player and current captain of Australia’s Senior B team, shared his pride in representing the nation. “It took me a few years to admit to people that I was a dragon boater, but I’m very proud now,” Thompson stated, emphasizing the honor of donning the national emblem during competitions.

The upcoming championships promise to be fiercely competitive, with over 4,000 paddlers from 34 nations participating. “It’s going to be an extremely tough competition — if we get to the podium, that’ll be unreal,” Thompson added, highlighting the high stakes of the event.

Ashleigh Wright, an 18-year-old who began dragon boating at age 12, also expressed her excitement about representing Australia for the first time. “I love the community in dragon boating,” she said, noting the camaraderie that forms among team members as they train and compete together.

This year’s championships will mark a historic moment for inclusivity in the sport, as Australia will debut its paradragon team. Among its members is Lindy Hou, a former Paralympic cyclist who has taken to dragon boating to maintain her fitness post-retirement. “It’s an inclusive sport in the way anyone can do it, regardless of ability,” Hou remarked, emphasizing the welcoming nature of the sport.

As the Auroras gear up for the world championships, their journey encapsulates not only the spirit of competition but also the burgeoning popularity of dragon boating in Australia. With dedicated athletes like Jun Lee, Sam Thompson, and Ashleigh Wright paving the way, the future of dragon boating appears bright, promising further growth and recognition on both national and international stages.