The Bristol Empire Dragon Boat Club hosted the Great Britain Senior Dragon Boat Squad in Saltford this weekend. This was the first of many training sessions working towards the 2015 World Championships which are to be heldin Canada.
Julia Clarke, Bristol Dragons Captain, said: "The day was a well-attended and we were pleased to support the GB team. There are a lot of talented paddlers in the team with three of whom come from Bristol!"
Over 60 paddlers attended the training day and made full use of Bristol's four dragon boats. The four helms, two drummers and two coaches helped the day run smoothly. Attendees participated in a two minute silence for Remembrance Day prior to three water and classroom sessions with video analysis.
Ginette Corr, GB Senior Paddler, said: "It was a tough day but it was great to have the opportunity to train on home turf!"
The Bristol Empire Dragon Boat Team only moved to Saltford in August after the Avon Valley Rowing Club renovated the site. The club has taken on new members since moving closer to Bath and are currently recruiting.
GB Senior Coach Allyson Butterfield, said: "Thank you on behalf of the GB Senior Squad. Bristol Dragons made us feel very welcome and the Saltford facilities are wonderful."
If anyone would like to have a free go at dragon boating visit the club websitewww.bristolempiredragons.com for details.