Dragon boat racing is a sport with ancient origins, tracing its roots back to China, but today, it’s a popular activity enjoyed worldwide. One athlete from the Lowcountry is preparing to compete at the highest level in this exciting and fast-paced sport. Andrew McMarlin, a Sullivan’s Island resident and former Olympic rower, is training hard to represent Team USA at the 17th World Dragon Boat Racing Championships this July in Brandenburg, Germany.
A Lifelong Connection to the Water
McMarlin has always had a deep connection to water. “I’ve just always loved the water,” he shares. Growing up in Hawaii, surrounded by the ocean, he developed a strong passion for aquatic sports, eventually leading him to Olympic rowing. Now, after years of rowing experience, McMarlin is bringing his skill and dedication to the world of dragon boat racing, a team sport that requires not only strength but also rhythm, timing, and unity.
Transition to Dragon Boat Racing
Dragon boat racing is all about coordination and teamwork. “Being on the water is always nice,” McMarlin says, “but having great people to train with and compete with is really what makes it.” McMarlin’s extensive experience, including 15 world championships over 25 years, has made him a standout competitor. He even jokes about first representing Team USA when many of the athletes on this year’s team were not even born yet!
What to Expect at the World Championships
The World Dragon Boat Racing Championships will take place from July 14 through 20 in Brandenburg, Germany. The event has grown so much that organizers have expanded the race course to include eight lanes and lengthened race times to accommodate a record number of participants. Each dragon boat is powered by 20 paddlers, a steersperson, and a drummer, with the drummer playing a key role similar to a rowing coxswain, helping the team stay in sync.
Intense Training for the Big Event
Training for dragon boat racing is physically demanding. McMarlin trains nearly every day, alternating between long-distance paddling on the Ocean Harbor Intracoastal and high-intensity interval training. “One-minute, two-minute, three-minute pieces,” he explains, which helps build stamina and power for the intense competition.
But dragon boat racing isn’t just about physical strength; it’s about connection and teamwork. Each stroke needs to be perfectly in sync. If even one paddler is slightly off, the boat will rock, losing valuable power and speed. McMarlin emphasizes how crucial it is for everyone to work together to maintain balance and speed.
Preparing for Gold
As McMarlin gears up for the championships, he’s also mindful of the fleeting nature of these opportunities. “You never know when it’s going to be your last time on the podium, the last time you represent the United States, so you really have to be grateful and appreciate every moment,” he says. His passion for the sport, paired with his extensive experience, makes him a formidable competitor in this year’s championship.
Get Involved in Dragon Boat Racing
If McMarlin’s story has inspired you to try dragon boat racing, there are local teams to join. You can become part of Dragon Boat Charleston, a supportive team of cancer survivors who paddle together, or Charleston Paddle Club, which is open to paddlers of all ages and skill levels.
Dragon boat racing isn’t just about competition — it’s also about community, teamwork, and having fun on the water.
