This is what I'd Say.

IF I only had A SHort Time to Tell You our Long Story...

Founded in 1983, the Philadelphia Dragon Boat Association (PDBA) was the first dragon boat racing team in North America. Our Head Coach, Bob McNamara, and several other members have been with the PDBA since the mid-1980s.

The PDBA’s mission is to prepare members for World Championships, National Championships, and regional races while fostering the growth of the sport across the United States. Our membership includes three International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) Hall of Famers and the current President of the United States Dragon Boat Federation.

We hold high-performance practices five days a week from April through September. Since the inception of the World Championships in 1995, PDBA members have consistently qualified for and medaled in international competitions. Our primary focus for 2026 will be the IDBF Club Crew World Championships in Taiwan.

The PDBA competes in Women, Open, and Mixed classes across various age divisions. We currently race in four categories ranging from Premier (all ages) to Senior C (60+). This year, we are focused on recruiting new members to replenish our under-40 ranks to complement our members who now dominate the Senior divisions.

Our annual dues remain low (maximum $250 annually) because we host the Independence Dragon Boat Regatta (IDBR), the largest and best-run single-day race in the country. IDBR proceeds cover all member race fees, provide unlimited use of our outrigger canoe fleet, and benefit U.S. Military veterans and Team USA Premier paddlers. PDBA members volunteer to staff this incredible event.

While many of our members have earned World Championship medals, our greatest rewards are the lifelong friendships and memories of international racing adventures. We take immense pride in being the first group of Americans to adopt this ancient Chinese sport and helping it thrive across the United States.

Welcome to the Philadelphia Dragon Boat Association!