About The Bourne Water Dragons | Learn About Our Club

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.

Paddler

Peter Thorne

Peter is one of many men diagnosed with Breast cancer. Unusual, you might think, but there are many men with Breast cancer. The latest figures shown were around 55,000 women, and 370 men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. Peter is another valued member of the BWD.

Paddler

Jane Young

For many years, Jane has worked the Front of House, be it in Leisure Clubs or Hotels. Jane loves travelling anywhere, any time and has two wonderful sons, a gorgeous granddaughter and a very patient husband. She likes to keep busy in the garden or helping out at the New Forest Cake House with her brother.

Paddler

Bob King

Bob is a member of both BWD and MENTALK - a group for men who have had or have cancer or whose loved ones have been affected by cancer. Bob also loves cruising the oceans and watching Grand Prix racing. If looking after grandchildren is a hobby that's one and walks down by the sea and in the New Forest. He loves living by the sea and river but dislikes cold water swimming.

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.

Support JoIn US

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.

Christmas Day 2024

The Bourne Water Dragons celebrated Christmas at the Carlton Hotel with great food, music, dancing, and a raffle, in a beautifully decorated venue.

Henley Winter Series 2024/25

Overcoming challenges, the Bourne Water Dragons finally compete in the Henley Winter Series. Experience their inspiring journey on the iconic Thames, showcasing determination and teamwork. Read more about their remarkable story in the full blog!

Simulated Capsize at the Carlton Hotel Bournemouth

The Bourne Water Dragons perform capsizing drills at the Carlton Hotel Bournemouth. Read about their training at the hotel and it's application in the open water.

News & events