Prescott Dragon Boat Race 2024

Calling All Paddlers! Come and paddle in a new location in Arizona!

Saturday Sept 7, 2024  8:00 am – 4:00 pm
at Prescott’s Watson Lake

Are you ready to glide across the pristine waters of Prescott Lake?
Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a first timer, this is your chance to be part of an exhilarating event! Arizona Dragon Boat Association wants to show you what dragon boating is all about in Prescott.

All skill levels are welcome!

Register Here

Event Details

All race divisions will compete in 250 meter races.

Divisions:

  • Community – Entry-level teams; minimum 8 female paddlers.
  • Mixed – Competitive teams; minimum 8 female and 8 male paddlers.
  • Open – Competitive teams; no restrictions on crew composition.
  • Women – Competitive teams; drummer and steersperson can be men or women.

Location:  Prescott’s Watson Lake

Parking:  Available at the lake for $5 per day.

Camping:  Available on-site. 
Note to campers: There will be a dance party on-site until 1:00 am.

Hotels:

Outdoor adventures:

  • Explore the beautiful lake area with activities like hiking, e-biking, and kayaking.
  • If you’re up for it, consider paddling out on a kayak to watch the movie “Jurassic Park” on the lake at 7:30 pm on Friday.
  • Experience Prescott
  • Kayak and e-bike rentals

Whiskey Row Downtown:
Visit Whiskey Row in downtown Prescott. It’s a lively area with restaurants, stores, and entertainment.

Friday Highlights:
Movie night and refreshments start at 7:30 pm.

Saturday Highlights:

  • Racing and training from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Schedule coming soon.
  • From 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, enjoy drums, ukuleles, and a rain gutter regatta for the kiddos.
  • In the evening, experience a tropical vibe at the Tiki bar and luau. Try Kalua Pork, White Rice, Lomi, and Mac salad while watching fire dancers at sunset.
  • For music lovers, there’s a dance party and silent disco from 7:30 pm to 1:00 am. If EDM isn’t your thing, head over to the Row for some great country and rock performances.

Sunday:
The lake is available for kayaking, OC1’s (outrigger canoe), and SUP (stand-up paddle boards).

Food and Drink:

  • Liquor won’t be served until 3:00 pm.
  • Food trucks will offer tacos, samosas, and coffee at the docks on Saturday morning.
  • Across the street, you’ll find the best Smash Burger joint in Prescott.

Things to keep in mind while assembling your team

  • You’ll need at least 23 people:  20 paddlers and 3 alternates.
  • New to dragon boat racing? No worries! Each person will be given basic instructions about boat and lake etiquette, safety, boat commands, and basic paddling technique.
  • Paddles and PFDs (personal floatation devices), coaches, and steerspersons will be provided for each boat.

What to expect when you get here

Get ready to connect with fellow water sport enthusiasts! You’ll enjoy the breathtaking views at Prescott’s beautiful Watson Lake and some friendly competition.

You’ll learn a water sport that has been featured in over 187 countries and counting!

Come on out and see why this is a great family and team building activity!