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About Us
 Houston Heat is this city's first ever year-round dragon boat club. We are comprised of competitive and recreational paddlers training to compete in local, national, and international competitions worldwide! We also strive to promote the rich cultural history of the sport and to bring community involvement and awareness to our paddlers -- from working with the Lighthouse of Houston's blind paddlers, Blind Fury, to promoting greener waterways through Houston Heat Goes Green -- we aim to have fun AND do some good!
Our Board is committed and highly motivated in making Houston Heat THE standard for all other dragon boat clubs in Houston, Texas, the United States and abroad! Promoting the sport is what we are all about. We're a unique and mixed cast with experienced and novice paddlers who have a common goal: Let's kick some Dragon Boat tails!
What we're really about is teamwork, leadership, community, and hard work. And since we work hard, we play just as hard! We strive to be champions on and off the water. So what are you waiting for? Come on out and join us!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the Houston Heat Dragon Boat Club?
In early summer 2006, a group of paddlers convened to establish Houston's first year-round Dragon Boat club. In addition to competing in Dragon Boat races, Houston Heat's goals are to promote the challenging sport of dragon boat, foster the spirit of fun athletic competition, develop strong teambuilding skills, and promote a sense of community amongst our paddlers.
How is the club associated with the Texas Dragon Boat Association (TDBA)?
Houston Heat is the inaugural club/team of the TDBA Dragon Boat league. We are pioneers!
How do I join the club?
Fill out a Membership Form and return it, along with your membership fee, to a Houston Heat representative. Or, contact
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.
How much is it to join?
The membership fee for 2010 is $150.00, valid through the end of the 2010 dragon boat season. There will also be a ONE-time administration fee of $20 for new paddlers who are new to HH).
We are, however, promoting a discount for early sign-up. The membership fee will only be $125.00 for returning members and $125 for new members, plus 50% off the one time administrative charge if we receive your completed membership form and payment before February 28, 2010.
You can mail your check or money order to:
Houston Heat Dragon Boat Club
PO Box 27029
Houston TX 77227-7029
In order for this discount to apply, payment and form must arrive no later than February 28, 2010.
What will my membership fee cover?
Your membership fee will cover ongoing maintenance and other costs related to equipment including boats, paddles, and personal flotation devices, liability insurance for the team and venue rental. Also, we rely on members to help tow the boats to and from the practice sites for certain practices. The membership fee also helps cover mileage reimbursements to these volunteers for gas and wear/tear on their cars.
Can I try out a few practices before deciding if I want to join?
Sure! Guests will receive two FREE water practices. The third water practice and thereafter will require either the annual membership amount or a paddling charge of $10 per practice. We also offer a great deal where new paddlers can purchase a $20 all you can paddle trial pass which is valid for 30 days and allows unlimited water practices. We encourage people to join because you won't regret it!
In how many races will Houston Heat compete?
We plan to compete in at least two major races each year and try to compete in as many local events as we can. Team members will determine additional race events.
How often are practice sessions held?
There will be two types of practice sessions -- water-based and land-based. Water practice will involve reviewing team synchronization, paddling technique and sprints while on the water and in a Dragon Boat. Water practices will be located in the Clear Lake area or the Houston Water Sports Complex. Land based practice will involve fitness activities such as running, strength training and/or aerobic exercises. Land practices will be at Allen Parkway, Memorial Park and other locations. General practice sessions will be held twice a week; however, when training for a race or event, practice sessions will increase to 4 to 5 times a week.
Is attendance at practice sessions mandatory?
Attendance at practice sessions is strongly encouraged and is one factor used by Coaches when finalizing rosters for races and events. Members may be excused from practice for emergency/unpreventable situations.
What level of fitness and experience is required?
Dragon boat racing is suitable for all levels of fitness with mixed male/female crews; no previous experience is required. Enthusiasm, dedication and genuine team spirit are a must!
Is special equipment needed and will it be provided?
Dragon Boat paddling is similar to other water sports in that you will need a paddle and a personal floatation device (life jacket). At this time, equipment will be provided by TDBA. In the near future, Houston Heat will provide its own equipment. We also suggest comfortable workout/swimming apparel that breathes easily and good water shoes as opposed to sneakers or flip flops. This is a water sport so expect to get wet!
We also highly encourage our paddlers to bring reusable plastic water bottles compared to the disposable ones. Houston Heat is going green and we want everyone to know about it!
Is the club currently accepting sponsorships?
The Houston Heat Dragon Boat Club is continuously accepting sponsorship from individuals as well as corporations. Sponsorship funds go towards equipment rental, practice venue fees, race entry fees and team support. In return, sponsors will be recognized on all printed materials associated with the team; announced on all advertisements; and recognized before each race. Check out the Sponsorship page for more information.
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