Dragon Boat Rowing in Penang, Malaysia (plus 2000m indoor rowing comp)

Описание: #penang #dragonboat #indoorrowing

If you haven't heard of dragon boat racing, you'd be forgiven. Originating in China more than 2000 years ago, it's not blossomed into an international sport (predominantly in South East Asia).

I went down to the Penang Municipal Park Rowing Club (PMPRC) to give dragon boating a try. Spoiler alert, it's not great for your back. It's an awkward, lopsided movement and whilst it was good to try out, I don't think I'll be going back!

Dragon boating is popular though and like many sports, does seem to have a real community spirit (at least in Penang). Some people would drive 2 hours each way to join the training session, which is real commitment. There are also lots of dragon boat festivals, the international ones attracting more than 1000 competitors. If you're in Penang, it's easy to message PMPRC on their Facebook page and have a go:   / pmprcdragonboat  .

On top of trying dragon boating, I somehow got persuaded to register for the 2022 Penang Indoor Rowing Championship. I'm no rower. However, I did enter the 30-39 lightweight mens which meant that my short stature was less of an issue.

It was actually a really well put on event, with competitions for all ages. They had virtual boats to show you your position and again, felt like a team/community turn out. I'm not the biggest fan of rowing but it was fun to take part regardless. I've always thought that sport is a great way to connect with local peoples and expats....and in Malaysia it seems it is no different. In fact, the people in Malaysia are very welcoming so if you do want to get involved in sports whilst you're travelling I have no doubt that you'll meet a lot of people whilst doing so!

0:00 - Introduction to Dragon Boating
2:43 - Dragon boat training in Penang
4:56 - Is Dragon Boating fun?!
6:15 - Penang Indoor Rowing Championship 2022
9:18 - Competing in 2000m indoor rowing competition