Building for tomorrow
Inlet Spirit is proud to announce the launch of its U24 dragon boat program for the 2026 season, creating new opportunities for youth and young adults to train, race, and grow within a supportive, community-based club.
For too long, young paddlers in our local region have had limited options to continue their development.
“Youth in our region have only had two choices until now — travel to False Creek in Vancouver or head out to Fort Langley,” says Robbin Whachell of Inlet Spirit. “We’re focused on changing that by creating local opportunities and ensuring we leave a lasting legacy for youth in our community.”
Supporting Youth in Our Region
Our future. Our legacy.
Dragon boating is a uniquely inclusive, co-ed sport that builds fitness, teamwork, and confidence. Inlet Spirit’s U24 program is designed to remove barriers to entry while offering a clear development pathway for athletes who want to learn, improve, and compete.
Launching in April 2026, the U24 team will welcome students and young adults — whether you’re brand new to dragon boating or already have paddling experience. The program will focus on structured team training, race preparation, and the fundamentals of competitive dragon boating in a development-first environment.
Youth & U24 Development Pathway
The U24 program will run from April through June, with paddlers training together as a crew and competing in a minimum of three race events during the season. Athletes will learn what it means to prepare, commit, and perform as part of a team — both on and off the water.
Dragon boating is built on communication, consistency, and shared effort. You don’t need to have everything figured out to get started. What matters most is a willingness to learn, show up, and contribute to the boat.
With the guidance of certified coaches, paddlers will build strong technical foundations, improve overall fitness, and develop confidence on the water — all while learning the value of teamwork and accountability.
Program Commitment at a Glance
Season: April – June 2026
Training: Twice-weekly practices (weekday evenings)
Racing: Minimum of three regattas
Equipment: Paddles and PFDs provided
Experience: No prior dragon boat experience required
Expectations: Consistent attendance, effort, and commitment to the team
This is a short, focused season designed for those ready to contribute to a team environment. Reliability matters — showing up prepared and engaged helps the entire crew succeed.
Paddle Forward With Us
If you’re active, curious about paddling, and excited by the idea of being part of something that’s growing, we invite you to register your interest using the contact form below. This helps us understand your background, availability, and goals as we shape a balanced and supportive U24 program for 2026.
Whether you’re taking your first stroke or preparing for your next level of competition, Inlet Spirit is a place to learn, grow, and paddle forward together.