PADDLING SIDE | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco Bay Area

 

Want to get stronger? DM or email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for free dragon boat lessons. We’ll make sure you switch sides.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

PADDLE CHECK: PIAO | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco

 

DieselFish loves everything about dragon boat racing. Even the gear. We can talk about gear for hours. So, in this new feature, we’re going to put the spotlight on the most important piece of gear, the paddle. We’re going to show off the paddles our team members love to race with, and ask them what makes their paddle special. First up: Captain Piao and her watersport weapon of choice, a Kialoa Zen carbon fiber paddle.

Piao loves the Zen’s ergonomics, especially the comfortable and easy-to-grip handle and shaft. She customized her paddle by adding a red grip and matching tip guard. Piao protects her Zen with an eye-catching plaid paddle bag.

Now it’s your turn. What kind of paddle do you use—and what do you love about it? Let us know in the comments.

→ DM or email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for more information about dragon boat racing.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

WE ARE NOT THE SAME | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco Bay Area

 

Looking for fun and excitement (and next-level snacks)? Email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for free dragon boat lessons. You’ll burn off ALL the calories.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

📸: Piao

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

GO OUTSIDE | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco Bay Area

 

Are you going to Outside Lands this weekend? Which performer are you psyched to see?

➡ Escape to the great outdoors! Email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for free dragon boat lessons in Redwood City with DieselFish. No mosh pits, please.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

DRAGON BOAT GEAR FOR NEWBIES | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco

 

Many newbies have asked me, “What dragon boat gear should I buy?” The answer depends on where you are in your journey. Some gear is worth buying right away, while other items can wait. Here are my recommendations.

When you first start paddling, your immediate concern is getting your bearings. At this point, buy inexpensive gear that’ll help you feel confident and comfortable.

• Seat pad: Dragon boat benches aren’t ergonomic. If you’re putting in the time, make sure you’re comfortable. Buy a squishy and soft seat pad. You’ll feel like you’re sitting on a cloud.
• Paddling gloves: Your hands are in rough shape, aren’t they? When you paddle, your hands get roasted by the sun, pickled by the sea, and scraped by the gunwale. Shield yourself from the elements by buying your first pair of paddling gloves. They’ll also help you grip your wet paddle.
• Water shoes: Ditch your socks and sneakers ASAP. Water seeps through the fabric and causes blisters. Get a pair of open-foot water shoes made with quick-drying materials. They’ll keep your soaked feet comfy.

Your technique, strength, and cardio will improve as you attend more practices. At this point, start buying gear that’ll help you secure a seat on the team’s competition boat.

• Wood paddle: Club paddles are always heavy. Level up your performance by buying your own wood paddle. High-performance wood paddles are lightweight and absorb shock. You’ll feel more powerful with every stroke.
• Personal Floatation Device (PFD): Your club’s PFDs are bulky and saturated with a funk that burns the nostrils. Get a light PFD that provides an ergonomic fit that’ll give you the freedom to reach and rotate like nobody’s business. Your coach and nose will thank you.

The right gear makes a difference. Start with the basics. Then upgrade as your skills grow. Before you know it, you’ll be paddling stronger and faster than you ever thought possible.

→ Email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for more information about dragon boat racing.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

A PERFECT SATURDAY FOR DRAGON BOAT RACERS | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco Bay Area

My perfect Saturday is filled with exercise, teamwork, and even a little bit of struggle. Read on to learn more. [ONLY FIVE SECOND READ]

My perfect Saturday starts with a paddle in my hands and DieselFish by my side.

Practice was challenging today. Just the way I like it.

Coach had us work on endurance drills and practice races. Again. And again. And AGAIN.

It was exhausting. But every drill made us a little stronger.

After the last race of the day, I was gassed. I looked around and noticed my teammates were gasping for air, too. That’s when my benchmate gave me a high five.

It’s moments like this—exercise, struggle, and teamwork—that make me feel truly ALIVE.

After all that hard work, we rewarded ourselves with giant bowls of pho at Phở Hà Nội.

The broth was rich. The noodles disappeared fast. But the company was even better.

We yapped about our upcoming races, vacation plans, and families.

Because dragon boat racing isn’t just about getting faster. It’s about building friendships that last long after practice ends.

This is my perfect Saturday.

➡ You can join our Saturday dragon boat adventures. Email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for free lessons in Redwood City.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

📸: Alex, Piao, Tommy

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

SIGNS YOU’RE PADDLING BETTER | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco Bay Area

 

This one goes out to all the dragon boat newbies! We see you. You’re showing up, listening to your coach, and giving it 100%. But when you’re new, it can be hard to believe you’re making progress (even if you’re getting positive feedback). That’s because progress shows up in small ways first. Here are signs that your paddling has improved.

You’re not stopping to rest

Remember when you started? You had to stop and catch your breath every two minutes. But now, you don’t need to rest because your cardio and strength have improved. You’re also using the correct technique. Now, you’re locked in, paddling in time, and powering the boat through the water.

You’re not fighting the boat anymore

CLANK! SPLASH! Your paddling used to be a contact sport. But everything is different now. No more accidental paddle smacks, no more surprise splashes. Those moments happened because your timing and technique weren’t great. But now, everything is smoother, cleaner, and more controlled. You’re moving with the boat instead of against it.

You’re pulling your paddle through cement

What a paradox. You’d think that executing the correct technique would make paddling feel effortless. But instead, it feels like you’re pulling your paddle through thick and heavy cement. That’s because you’re now fully burying your paddle into the water. You’re encountering water pressure, which provides resistance against your stroke. Here’s the good news. This resistance allows you to push more water and generate real power.

Your arms aren’t tired, but your legs and core are BURNING

You’ve finally mastered the hardest part of paddling: not using your arms. Instead, you’re propelling the boat by pushing off with your legs and rotating your core. Keep it up.

Congratulations, newbie. You’ve come a long way from those early, awkward days. You’re showing progress and we couldn’t be prouder.

→ Got dragon boat questions? Email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for answers and advice.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY PIAO | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco Bay Area

Happy third anniversary to our captain, Piao! [ONLY 5-second read]

Happy anniversary, Piao!

Three years ago, you signed up for a dragon boat lesson...and look at you now.

On race day, we follow your pace.

When we’re planning practices, your logistical know-how keep us strong, focused, and efficient.

During practice, your positive attitude lifts our spirits and reminds us why we love this team.

Here’s to three amazing years...and MANY more adventures with DieselFish!

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

WE SEE YOU | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco Bay Area

 

What’s your favorite Sophie Cunningham meme?

➡ Looking for outdoor adventures AND good times? Email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for free dragon boat lessons.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

STUFF I’M EXCITED ABOUT AS A NORTHERN CALIFORNIA DRAGON BOAT RACER | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco Bay Area

This could be our most exciting summer EVER. Read on to learn more. [ONLY 15-second read]

Summer has finally arrived. The days are longer and warmer, so I can spend more time outside with my DieselFish friends. My heart skips a beat whenever I think about the adventures we’re going to have together. Here’s a list of some of the stuff I’m most excited about:

RACING IN MONTRÉAL AND LOS ANGELES

Summer is prime dragon boat season. There are races every weekend all over the world. We always include away races in our schedule. Because away races are mini vacations. We paddle during the day and explore the cities at night. This summer’s offerings are especially exciting. Many of us are going to race in Montréal and Los Angeles. The competitions will be fast and furious. After the races, we’ll hopefully check out Old Montréal and Disneyland.

PADDLING AFTER WORK ON WEDNESDAY NIGHTS

The summer sun stays up forever, allowing us to practice in the evening. Fresh air, exercise, and gorgeous sunsets—there is no better way to unwind after a grueling day at the office.

LUNCHES WITH THE TEAM

When the weather is warm, we grab lunch after practice. Some of our favorite spots in Redwood City and San Carlos offer outdoor seating that allows us to enjoy fresh air and sunshine as we chow down and chat. I’m looking forward to savoring the halloumi cheese rolls at Mazra and the chicken tikka thali at Zareen’s. The curries at Isarn Garden Thai Cuisine are delicious, too.

→ Our summer is going to be awesome, filled with sunshine, fun, and excitement. Would you like to join our adventures? DM or email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com to book a FREE dragon boat lesson in Redwood City.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

📸: Alex and Chris

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

SAN FRANCISCO DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL VICTORY | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco Bay Area

 

DIESELFISH JUST MEDALED AT THE SAN FRANCISCO DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL! 🏅

DIESEL! DIESEL! DIESEL!

→ YOU can feel the thrill of racing and winning a medal, too! Just email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for free dragon boat lessons in Redwood City.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

DELICIOUS DUANWU TREATS | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco

Curious about dragon boat racing? Here’s some useful information about the Dragon Boat Festival and its traditional food. Read on to start YOUR dragon boat journey. [ONLY 5-second read] 

Happy Duanwu from DieselFish! If you’re new to dragon boat racing, you might wonder, “What is Duanwu?” and “What is that triangle-shaped thing in the comic?” Let us explain.

Duanwu is the Dragon Boat Festival, a major holiday in China. The modern sport of dragon boat racing traces its origins to Duanwu.

During Duanwu, people race dragon boats. The races are intense. The competitors give it their all as they dig their paddles deep, explode with raw power, and fight through burning muscles for glory and thrills. The races leave the athletes exhausted and famished. That’s when it’s time to eat.

The traditional food of Duanwu is zongzi. Zongzi are dumplings made of sticky rice. They are stuffed with mouthwatering treats that range from egg yolks to pork belly. The zongzi are wrapped in bamboo leaves, tied up, and steamed. As you can see in the comic, the wrapping process is difficult. If you wrap a zongzi too loosely or leave gaps in the leaves, the rice will spill out as it steams.

Here’s hoping your Duanwu is filled with fun, excitement, and delicious food.

→ DieselFish is best dragon boat racing team for newcomers in the San Francisco Bay Area. Got questions? Email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for answers and advice.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

FRIENDSMAXXING | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco Bay Area

Dragon boat racing is a great way to meet new friends. Read on to learn more. [ONLY 5-second read]

Would you like to meet new friends?

Start joining group activities, like dragon boat racing.

Dragon boat racing is an exciting water sport in which teams paddle massive canoes down racecourses.

When you start dragon boat racing, you’ll meet lots of people. Together, you’ll share adventures that will help you build bonds. You’ll have fun along the way, too.

DieselFish knows that you might find it intimidating to try a new activity with a group of strangers. So, we’ve cultivated a friendly atmosphere. You’ll feel warm, fuzzy, and welcomed.

→ Sounds good? Let’s get started. Email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com to book a FREE dragon boat lesson in Redwood City.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

WHAT IS A GUNWALE? | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco

Curious about dragon boat racing? Here’s some useful information about the parts of the boat. Read on to start YOUR dragon boat journey. [ONLY 5-second read]

If you’re new to dragon boat racing, you might not understand this comic. That’s because dragon boat racers use lots of strange jargon. We got you covered. To help you get started, we’re going to explain a common term you’ll hear at dragon boat lessons.

Q: What is a gunwale?

A: A “gunwale” is the upper edge of a dragon boat’s side. This structure reinforces the hull and prevents water from washing into the boat.

Here’s the confusing part. It’s pronounced “gunnel.” Some dragon boat racers spell it that way, too. Both ways are acceptable.

When you sit in a dragon boat for the first time, your coach will tell you to make sure your hips touch the gunnel. This command ensures that weight of all the paddlers is evenly distributed throughout the boat.

→ DieselFish is the most welcoming dragon boat racing team in the San Francisco Bay Area. Got questions? Email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for answers and advice.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

CAMPFIRES, CANOES, AND CHAOS | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco Bay Area

The tide was too low. So we headed outdoors for a camping trip that we’ll never forget. [ONLY 5-second read]

What does DieselFish do when the tide gets too low to race dragon boats?

We head for the wilderness.

A few weeks ago, the team travelled to the South Fork of the American River for a camping trip.

This trip was packed with adventure, laughs, and even a bit of chaos:

First, we hiked hard and worked up a serious sweat.

Next, we camped under the massive, never-ending sky. After the sun set, the horizon came alive with tiny pinpricks of light. That’s when we spotted a shooting star. This serenity wouldn’t last, though. Later that night, we discovered that one of us snores REALLY loud.

Then came the highlight, a white-water rafting experience.

At first, we handled the waves, rocks, and drops like pros. EASY.

But then, BAM.

An unexpected hit sent one of us nearly flying out of the raft.

That’s the thing about DieselFish.

We don’t just paddle together. We chase adventure together…on and off the water.

→ Want to join our outdoor adventures? Email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for FREE dragon boat lessons in Redwood City.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

Pics: Debbie and Tommy

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

HOBBIES? | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco Bay Area

 

What hobbies are you into?

We’re obsessed with dragon boat racing.

After practice, we try to unwind by doing something completely different. But it’s hard because dragon boat racing is so much fun!

➡ Email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for free dragon boat lessons. No glue or assembly required.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

THERE IS A WAY | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco Bay Area

Sometimes the thing you’re looking for finds you. Read on to learn more. [ONLY 5-second read]

If you found this post, this might be exactly what you need right now…

There’s a way to spend more time outdoors.

There’s a way to meet new people.

There’s a way to get stronger, without it feeling like exercise.

It’s called dragon boat racing, a fun, exciting, and social water sport. Once you’re out on the water, you’ll find fresh air, fun friendships, and a full-body workout.

So, if something feels missing, you don’t have to keep searching for it. You’ll find it waiting for you in our boat.

And the best part? Getting started is easier than you think.

→ All you need to do is DM or email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for free dragon boat lessons in Redwood City.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

📸: Alex, Mitchell, Steve Hillebrand, Tanya Pourboire, Valerie

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

NO GATEKEEPING—FREE DRAGON BOAT INFORMATION | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco Bay Area

Here’s a compilation of the most useful questions and helpful answers about dragon boat racing. I hope this information helps you in your dragon boat journey. [ONLY 5-second read]

Dear Internet Friends,

Ever since I started the dragon boat education series of blog posts, you’ve flooded my inbox with questions. Fantastic! Because I love talking about this sport. I don’t want to gatekeep all this information, so I’ve compiled the most useful questions and answers for you in this post. I hope you find this information useful. Let me know if you have any more dragon boat questions.

Q: Do I need experience to join a dragon boat team?

A: No experience needed. We’ll teach you everything. Most of our teammates started with zero experience.

Q: What kind of fitness level do I need for dragon boat racing?

A: You don’t need to be in shape to start. You get in shape by showing up and putting in the work. Dragon boat racing will strengthen your whole body. It’s particularly good at working out your core muscles.

Q: Can I try dragon boat racing if I don’t know how to swim?

A: Yes. We wear life vests and paddle close to shore because your safety is a priority. A shocking number of talented paddlers can’t swim.

Q: Am I too old to try dragon boat racing?

A: No. some of the toughest dragon boat racers compete in the masters division, for people aged 40 and older. Old age and treachery will overcome youth and skill.

Q: Am I too small/big to try dragon boat racing?

A: No. Dragon boat racing embraces ALL body types. The boats have a tapered shape, so teams need all body types to fill the boat. That includes people with small bodies in the front and back, and big bodies in the middle.

Q: Do you paddle when it rains?

A: Yes, even when it rains. It’s a brisk, life-affirming experience.

Q: Is dragon boat racing expensive?

A: No. We provide FREE dragon boat racing lessons. We’ll even provide you with loaner paddles and life jackets.

→ DieselFish is the most welcoming dragon boat team in the Bay Area. DM or email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for more information about dragon boat racing.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

THE SPORT BUILT FOR EVERY SHAPE AND SIZE | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco Bay Area

Ever feel left out of a sport because your body doesn’t fit the mold? We’ve got a solution. Read on to learn about body diversity in dragon boat racing. [ONLY 5-second read]

Have you noticed that:

• Football players are always mountains of muscle?
• Runners are always lean and wiry?
• Basketball players are always towering giants?

Each sport favors specific physical attributes. That means if your body doesn’t fit the mold, you get left out. It’s not fair!

Everyone should be able to play a sport, regardless of their body type.

Luckily, there’s a sport that embraces ALL body types. It’s called dragon boat racing.

Dragon boat racing is a fun and exciting water sport in which crews paddle massive boats down racecourses. These boats are narrow in the front, wide in the middle, and narrow in the back.

This tapered shape means that a dragon boat team NEEDS:

• Short kings and queens to set the pace from the front
• Beefy boys and glamazons in the middle of the boat to provide power
• Featherweight phenoms that will keep calm and paddle strong in the back

This diversity of body types on a team means that dragon boat is for EVERYONE. No one gets left out here.

So if you’ve ever felt “not built” for a sport, good. You’re exactly what we need.

→ Email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for free dragon boat lessons in Redwood City.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.

THE GREAT ESCAPE | DieselFish Dragon Boat Team | San Jose, Peninsula, San Francisco Bay Area

>>> Work driving you crazy? ESCAPE the grind by dragon boat racing with us on Wednesday nights. [ONLY 5-second read] <<<

Your job is driving you crazy! Deadlines…meetings…emails. They’re stressing you out. You need a break NOW.

But what can you do to find relief?

You should escape your stuffy office and get some fresh air. Being outdoors naturally boosts your mood and eases tension. The effect is even stronger when you add a physical activity like dragon boat racing.

What? You’ve never heard of dragon boat racing? It’s a fun and exciting water sport in which a team of paddlers propels a massive canoe down a racecourse.

You should try it. Once you get in the boat, you’ll soak up the sun, feel the cool breeze whipping through the air, and get in a great workout. This experience will leave you feeling excited, re-energized, and stress-free.

There’s no better way to relieve work stress than dragon boat racing. Escape from the deadlines, the meetings, and the emails. Grab a paddle, get in the boat, and let it all go…stroke by stroke. You’ll step off the boat feeling ready to take on the world.

➡ Email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for free dragon boat lessons in Redwood City with DieselFish.

- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲

Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.