Paddling into national spotlight

Redcliffe has been etched into the history of Australian dragon boating thanks to crews at the 2025 national championships in Penrith.

The Redcliffe Red Dragons, which included two from Redcliffe Pink Snapdragons, faced powerhouse teams from across the country.

In a superb campaign, three Reds’ crews reached national finals and two others made it through tough semi-finals.

The crowning glory came from the Senior C Mixed 10s, which claimed bronze in the 200m final, putting Redcliffe on the national dragon boating map.

And from nine entries across the 500m event, Redcliffe’s dedicated crew placed fifth nationally - an exceptional feat.

The Senior B Women’s crew also delivered a fine performance, advancing to the semi-finals in the 500m and finals in the 200m.

In the latter they narrowly missed the podium finishing fifth - just 1.5 seconds off bronze.

Redcliffe’s Senior A Open 10s also proved their mettle, battling through a field of 16 in the 500m and 18 in the 200m.

They reached the semi-finals in the 500m and missed out on the 200m semi-finals by just 0.56 seconds.

To have multiple crews making finals and a national medal win was an outstanding achievement for a club of Redcliffe’s size.

Redcliffe Pink Dragons are hosting a free come-and-try session tomorrow (May 10) for anyone “touched by breast cancer – survivors and supporters”.

Start 9am for 9.30am on the water. All equipment will be provided and morning tea served at the group’s clubhouse in Talobilla Park, Kippa-Ring.

For more information phone 0417 716544, email [email protected] or visit www.pinksnapdragons.com