
Dragonflyers on the Water:
Races & Events
11th Annual Dragons on the Lake Boat Festival
July 19, 2025 @ 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Portage Lakes State Park
5031 Manchester Road
New Franklin, OH 44319

races

Practice times
Practices are scheduled for Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:45 pm - 7:15 pm, with warm-ups and announcements starting at 5:45 pm sharp, and on the water at 6 pm. Please arrive between 5:30 pm - 5:45 pm to give yourself time to park, traverse to the warm-up area, and arrange needed gear. The first practice for returning paddlers is scheduled for Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at 5:45 pm. Practices will run through mid-October.
OPEN HOUSE
Thursday, May 1, 2025 will be our first Open House at 5:45 pm for new and returning paddlers.
Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 11 am will be the second Open House for new and returning paddlers. Invite your friends, family, and others who may be interested in dragon boating.
Open to all individuals interested in trying out paddling in a dragon boat (no fee)​

Capital City Dragon Boat Race
September 15th, 2025
Grand River Park
3205 Lansing Rd
Lansing, MI 48917
recreational paddle
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Sunday, May 18, 2025 4:00 to 5:30
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Saturday, June 7, 2025 10:30 to 12:00 noon
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Saturday, July 12, 2025 10:30 to 12:00 noon
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Sunday, August 17, 2025 4:00 to 5:30
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Sunday, September 21, 2025 4:00 to 5:30
All dates are subject to change due to the weather.
Invite family and friends to fill a boat, enjoy the sport of dragon boat, and the beauty of the water.
($5/paddler - All dates are subject to change due to weather)​


do you shop online?
By making your purchases using our Flip Give codes the places you already shop will donate a portion of your purchases to support our 501c3.
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Set your monthly deliveries from participating companies like Chewy, Walgreens, OfficeMax, and even subscription boxes like BarkBox to donate a percentage back to us at NO COST to you.
scholarships
A donation of just $450 fully supports one paddler, covering the cost of their membership, equipment, and training for the entire season. Scholarships like these ensure that dragon boat racing is accessible to everyone, regardless of financial ability. Your generous contribution helps expand the sport, allowing individuals from all backgrounds to experience the camaraderie, fitness, and community that the Dragonflyers of Michigan offers. Together, we can break down barriers and create opportunities for all to join the team.


purchase from our wishlist
Donating items from our wishlist directly supports the Dragonflyers of Michigan by providing essential equipment and supplies needed for training and events. Your contribution helps keep our team well-equipped, ensuring our paddlers have everything they need to excel and enjoy the sport.
Wanna Race?
BECOME A DRAGONFLYER
Join us and dive into the excitement, fitness, and camaraderie of dragon boating! Receive expert coaching, top-quality equipment, and the chance to compete in thrilling races. More than just a workout, dragon boating strengthens your body, boosts well-being, and connects you with a supportive community.
Ready for adventure? Join today and paddle toward better health, new friendships, and unforgettable experiences!
ARE YOU READY?
Fill out the membership application and we'll respond as quickly as possible. Our usual response time is within a few days.
Download and complete the Insurance Waiver with the Media Consent & Release and bring it to the first paddle event.

Thank You
Call Sam Cares
We are truly honored and grateful to be recognized as a Call Sam Cares recipient! Your support means so much to the Dragonflyers of Michigan as we work to grow the sport of dragon boat racing and foster a connected, healthy community here in Michigan. Your generous contribution not only fuels our efforts to promote physical activity but also enables us to create a welcoming space where individuals of all ages and backgrounds can come together in camaraderie, teamwork, and wellness.
Thank you for believing in our mission to make a positive impact, one paddle stroke at a time. With your partnership, we’re excited to continue making waves in Michigan and beyond!
thank you to our sponsers

Bess German
Melodee Graybill
Lynda Heinig
Mary & Rich Kimball
Ellen Lurie
Virginia Martz
Rebecca (Becky) Saul
Julie Sinclair
Jay & LouAnn Stark-Dykema
Laurel Winkle
"In loving memory of my sister, Barbara Thurston."
- Joyce Ochowicz
Guerriero Family
Perry, MI


Dragonflyers of Michigan welcomes paddlers ages 14 - 99 of all experience levels to join our inclusive team right in the heart of Michigan.

