About the Sport

Paradragon boat racing is a dynamic, team-oriented adaptation of the traditional sport of dragon boat that brings athletes with physical disabilities together in a powerful display of rhythm, strength, and unity on the water. Crews paddle in unison to the beat of a drum, propelling a long, narrow boat forward through synchronized strokes that emphasize timing, coordination, and collective effort over individual ability. With roots in ancient cultural traditions and a strong modern competitive presence, paradragon racing offers an inclusive and exhilarating environment where athletes experience the thrill of racing while building teamwork, confidence, and community.

Paradragon teams utilize standard dragon boats, adapted with specialized seating, backrests, and bracing systems to provide added trunk support and stability as needed. Adaptive paddles, modified grip solutions, and customized seating configurations allow athletes with varying levels of mobility, balance, or limb difference to paddle safely and effectively. Personal flotation devices (pfd’s) are worn by all participants, and team compositions follow paradragon classification guidelines to ensure fair and competitive racing. Paradragon boat racing celebrates strength in diversity, proving that when a team moves as one, anything is possible.

Our team collaborates with the Greater Chicago Dragon Boat Club to bring paradragon opportunities to the greater Chicago area.