History and Mission

Raleigh Dragon Boat Club, Inc. is a membership-driven organization that is committed to improving strength and fitness, promoting and supporting team spirit and actively cultivating an arena for dragon boat paddling and seeks to share the benefits of the sport with the city of Raleigh and its surrounding communities. No experience is necessary to join the club. RDBC welcomes paddlers of all ages (from 15 years old) and skillsets. Whether your interest is recreational or competitive, our coaches will train you in safety, timing, and technique until you're in the boat gliding through the water, paddling in perfect unison with your teammates.

Raleigh Dragon Boat Club was first formed in 2011 and received its 501(c)3 non-profit status in 2017. Lake Wheeler Park is home to our dragon boats, where we hold practice and provide free coaching  with all of the equipment provided. Being entirely volunteer-driven, we are a non-profit organization fueled by our passion for paddling. RDBC supports multiple teams including the Relentless Team and Chemo-Kazes, our Cancer Survivor and Supporter Team. 

Mission Statement: To promote and develop the sport of dragon boating throughout the greater Raleigh area and its surrounding communities, and when privileged to other regions outside of the Triangle. To promote community outreach programs, cross-cultural understanding, and corporate team building programs all with the sport of dragon boating as the central focus. To promote for persons of all ages the development of healthy bodies and spirits through physical activity and provide a venue for the establishment and growth of friendships and teamwork; and to conduct any and all other activities relating to the above.

Program Vision: 

  • To encourage healthy lifestyles through goal-oriented exercise, good nutrition, education, and fellowship.

  • To provide a positive model for our community demonstrating determination and team cooperation.

  • To support the beneficial effects of physical activity and mental wellness to outreach programs and cancer survivors. 

  • To advance the sport of dragon boating. 


Raleigh Dragon Boat Club currently has two teams and you can find more information under “Our Teams”.

  • Relentless is the Raleigh Dragon Boat Club’s first competitive team, a community of individuals with a common goal: to better ourselves as athletes while contributing to team unity and excellence.

  • Chemo-Kazes is an outreach program providing a supportive place for adult Survivors and their family and friends, as they reclaim their lives during and after their illness. We use dragon boating as a fun activity to promote health, confidence and teamwork as we continue our lifelong journey to THRIVERSHIP!

The Raleigh Dragon Boat By-laws are available to review via this PDF Link.