a bit about us

Who are the Bourne Water Dragons?

We’re a dragon boating team for cancer survivors based in Bournemouth. We were set up in May 2019 by four people who shared a desire to make the exhilarating sport of dragon boating accessible to ALL cancer survivors.

The Bourne water Dragons team out on the river for practice

What do we do?

We run a club that practices and participates in dragon boating events across the UK and Europe. But what we really do is provide an environment for cancer survivors to enjoy sports with like minded individuals to aid their recovery.

Our mission

We aim to support anyone who has been affected by cancer by creating a mutually friendly and empathetic environment for individuals to enjoy themselves and stay active.

The team
Meet the team

The Bourne Water Dragons are made up of fantastic individuals of all ages and backgrounds, and we welcome everyone to get involved in our club in either a small or large way.

Chairman

Ian Stephenson

Having been a member of the Bourne Water Dragons for a good while now, Ian was delighted to take on the challenge of Chairman for such a worthy course. He has always enjoyed the fitness aspect of life; add fun, laughter and a great team and we are sorted! Ian's principal interests include skiing, walking the dog, horses and of course, Dragon Boats.

Cath Groome

Cath became interested in Bourne Water Dragons when she picked up a leaflet at the Jigsaw Unit at Bournemouth University Hospital Dorset (UHD). She has been enjoying the tranquil evening excursions and the comradery of Bourne Water Dragons since joining.

Paddler

Roy Young

A printer by trade, Roy is a family man with 2 sons and a loving wife of 50 years. Roy's cancer (prostate) is now in its twelfth year of remission. He enjoys most sports, soccer, golf, cricket, being his favourites. Though, he now only watches it on TV or as a spectator.

Meet the Team
The Bourne Water Dragons racing in the Cookham Regatta

What is dragon boating?

Dragon boating is an exciting and fast growing water sport that originated from China. It’s a fun activity that anyone can take part in with other team members, either just for fun or in competitive races across the country.

Learn More about Dragon Boating

Get involved

There are lots of ways individual and businesses can support us and we're always looking for new members to join our team. Click the links below to learn more.

Thank you to our sponsors

Stay updated with the BWD

Dragon boating news & events

Read up on some of the latest news and events relating to dragon boating and any announcements we’ve made related to our club.

Sherborne Country Fair

BWD met with 24 teams of Dragon boaters to compete in a three race heat at the Sherborne Country Fair on Bank Holiday Monday. Read on to learn the outcome.

Bourne Water Dragons Celebrate 5th Anniversary

The Bourne Water Dragons Celebrate their 5th anniversary of helping cancer survivors stay active and have a community for support.

A busy week for the Bourne Water Dragons!

Volunteers flock down to Iford in preparation of the Bourne Water Dragon's 5 anniversary.

Contact Us