Dragon Boat Race: Drummer, Paddlers n Helmsman

Hey Guys, I would like to dedicate this entry special for Dragon Boat since last week ALAM’s teams managed to put themselves at the same level with other great teams.

But what is Dragon Boat Race actually?

Basically Dragon Boat Race is a race involving normally 4 teams or more in a certain distance i.e. in Sungai Melaka the set distance is 250 meters and in Putrajaya Lake the set distance is 500 meters. But the boats are actually propelled by man-power! That’s what make it special as compared to other boat race.  This race is said originated from the great mainland Republic of China which has been held over for more than 2000 years.

Regarding this race, there are 3 major parts in the team which the combination will form a great team.

1.        Drummer

2.       Paddlers

3.       Helmsman

Drummer:

-          Drummer normally will be selected from the lightest paddlers. He/she will be the “Heart” of the team, he also will determine the pace/beat of each stroke. Drummer plays a big role in the team as the synchronization of the team depends on the beat produced by the Drummer. Other than that, Drummer also will secretly communicate with the Helmsman in determining the perfect timing to change the beat.

Drummer set beat through drum

Paddlers:

-          Paddlers will facing the drummer and they are the one who will put their strength on each stroke they made. The first row of paddlers is the most important as the pace/speed and synchronization are depends on them. Paddlers normally use standardize paddle which made up from woods or carbon fiber. Breathing plays a big role as it allows paddlers to focus on their strokes and not to lose strength drastically.

Helmsman:

-          Helmsman also known as steerman is the one who control the rudder in other meaning he will determine the heading of the boat. Helmsman will communicate with the drummer if he notice the team is falling behind and need to change their pace.

Helmsman set the course

There are few types of strokes but we in ALAM team only focus in A-Stroke type which allows faster stroke recovery and powerful stroke. The stroke is called as “A-Stroke” as the position of hands and paddle will form a shape of A in standby position.

Source: Google images

Here is a video of ALAM team during Pesta Sungai Melaka 2015 which this team make it to the final and got 5^th placing.