Joining the Nanaimo Paddling Club gives you more than just a workout — you become part of a tightly knit community driven by passion, perseverance, and the love of being on the water. Whether you’re new to paddling or already have experience, you’ll find support, challenge, and camaraderie here.

Winter is an ideal time to start your paddling journey. You’ll get time on the water, time in the gym, and time on the paddling erg machine where you can perfect your stroke under the careful instruction of some of the area’s top paddlers.

When spring training begins, and racing and festival season starts in earnest, you’ll be ready to perform at your best — confident in your technique, strong in your endurance, and connected with teammates who have trained alongside you through every season. Along the way, you’ll meet lifelong friends and develop connections at dragon boat festivals across Vancouver Island, the Lower Mainland, and, for some teams, even across Canada and around the world.

Expert Coaching & Mentorship

What sets the Nanaimo Paddling Club apart is the camaraderie of our paddlers and the quality and dedication of its coaches:

  • Holly Wylie – Head Coach
     A veteran dragon boater and outrigger paddler with more than 20 years’ experience, Holly has competed locally, nationally, and internationally, including at the IDBF Club Crew World Championships. Named Masters Athlete of the Year at the Nanaimo Sport Achievement Awards and recipient of the Women of Influence – Breathe Fire Award, Holly brings both technical expertise and a contagious passion for the sport. 
  • Bob Wylie – Coach & Steersperson
     With decades of experience, Bob is a steady hand on the tiller and an inspiring coach. His focus on teamwork, technique, and trust helps paddlers push themselves while always feeling supported. 
  • Donna Fraser – Assistant Coach
     Proof that it’s never too late to start, Donna picked up her first paddle at age 60 and has since competed at the Pan Am Dragon Boat Championships, three Canadian Nationals, and in outrigger races. Certified as a Dragonboat Canada Community Coach, she now trains paddlers to unlock their own potential. 
  • Elaine Heffle – Coach & Steer-in-Training
     Elaine has been paddling with NPC since 2015, competing in races across BC and at the Club Crew World Championships. She is now expanding her skills as a steersperson, bringing fresh energy and dedication to the coaching team. 

Together, this coaching staff offers a wealth of competitive experience and a supportive approach that meets paddlers where they are, whether your goal is fitness, fun, or pushing toward high performance competition.

Join Us on the Water

Dragon boating offers something for everyone: fitness, teamwork, and the joy of gliding across the harbour with a crew moving in perfect unison. At the Nanaimo Paddling Club, you’ll find a welcoming environment, professional coaching, and opportunities to grow — both as an athlete and as part of a community.

🚣 Try a practice. Experience the thrill of paddling first-hand.
 💪 Train through the seasons. Build skills and confidence year-round.
 🌊 Race and celebrate. Join us at festivals and regattas near and far.

Whether you’re looking for fun, fitness, or competition, the Nanaimo Paddling Club is your place to belong.

👉 Ready to start? Email nanaimopaddlingcentre@shaw.ca to learn more and sign up today.

 

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