Going Out: Free dragon boating trials with Admar Barbarians

Denzil Pinto 23:23 09/12/2016
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  • Since the sport was established in China, it has become hugely popular around the world and the UAE is no different, catching the dragon fever with a number of teams in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khamaih.

    Admar Barbarians are among the UAE sides, based in Abu Dhabi and are on the search to add to their competitive squad.

    “Admar Barbarians started as a corporate team representing Logistics International LLC in Abu Dhabi, UAE. But last year, it became a non-corporate team representing professionals of different backgrounds, who came together as dragon boat enthusiasts,” said co-captain Lem Fernandez.

    “We’re on the look out for anyone who is physically fit and can do strenuous exercises. More than the physical capabilities, we look for persistent, persevering, committed and gutsy individuals as dragon boating is geared more on the mental than the physical side.”

    Newcomers can attend two free trials on Monday or Tuesdays (18:00) or Friday or Saturdays (05:30) at Shangri-La beach, Qaryat Al Beri in Abu Dhabi, before deciding whether they want to sign up for the full year at Dh1,500.

    The fee includes membership, the chance to race five to six races as well as covering training costs.

    And Fernandez insists there’s plenty of positives by trying it out.

    “Our paddlers started with zero knowledge of the sport however by determination, discipline and will, they are now the strong and skilled athletes that they are,” she said.

    “At Admar Barbarians, apart from having rigorous training sessions, the aims are to produce paddlers with characters. This is what our paddlers are taught, that they not only paddle for fun or glory, but to develop moral and ethical qualities as they grow with the team.”

    She added: “Those who thrive on accomplishment should join as results of their hard work in training are seen during races. Those keen for camaraderie should join, as it is a great place to meet new people and make friends. Those wanting to improve their lifestyle and fitness should join, as the training demands will enable them to have better physique.”

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