Canberrans looking to shake off their lockdown cocoon and step forward into the next phase of our community’s renewal are invited to come dragon boating!

The regions newest club is launching a ‘Learn to Paddle’ program designed to help people get on the water and back into life.

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Invictus Dragon Boat Club was born in the challenges of 2020, a badge of honour on their green and black jerseys.

Invictus means unconquerable or undefeated in Latin, “Our club motto comes from the famous William Henley poem, Invictus - I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul,” Head Coach, Cath Croatto explains.

“It’s inspiration for personal growth in a team dynamic, and I think that is especially important as we look to rise to the ongoing challenges that stem from 2020 - 2021.

“The invitation is there to come and give dragon boating a go – there is no better time to do it.”

Lockdown has delayed the start of the ACT’s 2021/22 dragon boating season, and as Canberra looks to reboot post October 15, Invictus is determined to build on the success of last season.

“Our women’s and mixed crews surprised many last season; we were competitive beyond our expectations, which was great reward for the ‘have a go’ attitude and team spirit we are growing,” Cath says.

“As our second season dawns, we will grow those results and further develop our men’s crew.

“We welcome anyone and everyone to join us, have a go, and feel the potential and opportunity dragon boating offers.

“Our members range in age from 12 right through to the late sixties and come from all over Canberra and surrounding NSW.”

Home base is Grevillea Park, on the east basin of Lake Burley Griffin at Barton. With the support of the ACT Government, preparations are underway to construct purpose-built clubhouse facilities for all 11 ACT clubs.

“Our paddlers come with their own health and life goals to achieve within the support and encouragement of a team. We aim to give every paddler a gold medal moment,” Cath says.

“The warmer temperatures and longer days ahead really add to the experience of being on the water, it’s a buzz being out there and being part of something that is uniquely Canberra.”

Invictus will hold its Open Day at 10.00am on Saturday, 6 November where you can take part in a free Come and Try session, followed by a free three week ‘Learn to Paddle Program’ on November 14, 21 & 28. The club has a COVID-Safe plan that has been developed in line with ACT Health requirements. 

“You are guaranteed to have fun, feel good and meet good people,” Cath says.

“Many people have probably watched us while they walk around the lake, why not come and experience what it’s like to be on the water?

“You’ll be hooked and all of a sudden find yourself getting physically and mentally fitter and setting new goals to achieve as a team.

“We train to be teammates, each of us has our own personal goals, but we only succeed together – as one.

“And when it clicks you feel it in the boat, in your head and your heart – it’s a great feeling and something we all need to feel following the challenges of lockdown.”

Boats are located at Grevillea Park, Morshead Drive, Barton. Paddles and life jackets will be provided. Bring a water bottle, hat, sun screen and towel, wear fitness clothes and shoes that you don’t mind getting wet. For more information email coach@invictus-dbc.com.au.