Congratulations
on passing your steering exam, Anna! [ONLY 5-second read]
Our teammate Anna just added another victory to her list of accomplishments. She passed her test and is now a certified dragon boat steer.
Congratulations, Anna! You decided to try a new challenge…and
you crushed it. All your practice and focus paid off. We’re so proud of you!
- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲
Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.
Let’s add rocket thrusters to dragon boats. What could possibly go wrong? If a car can do it, so can a canoe.
➡ Experience the SPEED, EXCITEMENT, and POWER of dragon boat racing for yourself. Email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com for FREE lessons in Redwood City.
- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲
Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.
Racing all day at the LA County Dragon Boat Festival left us
exhausted and sore. But then, we discovered that we had won a medal. The news
sent our spirits soaring. Suddenly, our exhaustion gave way to excitement. We
needed to celebrate this achievement, so we decided to hit the town. How would
we celebrate? Let’s just say we were ready to make some noise.
We decided to sing our hearts out. The lights dimmed as we
entered the room. A smoke machine blanketed the room with a hazy mist. A laser
projected a frantic light show onto the ceiling. The epic karaoke portion of our
trip was about to start. We spent the next two hours belting out loud and
enthusiastic renditions of our favorite pop songs. After all that training and
racing, singing our favorite songs together felt fantastic. At that moment,
there was no other place we wanted to be.
As the night ended, we turned off the sound system and
looked at each other. Our shiny medals caught the light and glimmered like
disco balls. We’ll never forget this race and the unforgettable night we spent
singing, laughing, and celebrating together.
➡ Experience the fellowship,
excitement, and joy of dragon boat racing for yourself. Email me now at
DFcaptains@gmail.com for FREE lessons in Redwood City.
- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲
Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights
reserved.
Last weekend, we traveled to Southern California to compete
in the LA County Dragon Boat Festival. Our time at the festival was filled with
moments of doubt, flashes of hope, and a massive swell of joy that made us lose
control of our bodies.
The competition was going to be tough. So we prepared by running
endless drills and hitting the weight room hard. But would this training be
enough?
We found out on race day. During our last heat, we took a
deep breath together:
INHALE. HOLD IT. EXHALE.
Then the horn blared and we exploded into action.
Time stood still as we paddled our hearts out. Every stroke
counted. Every gasp of air was needed. Every boat we passed was a small victory
that gave us hope. But were we fast enough to reach the winners’ podium?
We looked around as we crossed the finish line. The race was
too close to call. So we waited for the awards ceremony to discover our fate.
When the announcer called our name, our hearts skipped a
beat. We were so ecstatic, we kicked up our heels and danced onto the stage.
That wonderful moment was a release: the hard work and sacrifice were worth it.
Because at that moment, we became heroes. Our medals felt
solid and heavy. But the heft felt good, so we kept dancing.
➡ Experience the intensity,
excitement, and joy of dragon boat racing for yourself. Email me now at
DFcaptains@gmail.com for FREE lessons with DieselFish in Redwood City.
- Alex, the Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲
Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.
DIESELFISH JUST MEDALED AT THE LA COUNTY 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 🐲
📸: Sunny
Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.
What’s it like to paddle a dragon boat? This chart shows you what DieselFish’s practice sessions are like:
→ Anything surprising? DM or email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com to learn
how you can try dragon boat racing for free in Redwood City.
- Alex, YOUR Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲
Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.
Labor Day has come and gone, but here in the Bay Area,
summer isn’t really over. The sun is still warm, the sky is clear, and the
winds are calm. It’s the ideal time to be outside and on the water.
That means there’s still time to enjoy outdoor activities
like dragon boat racing with DieselFish. But not for long.
This beautiful weather won’t last forever. Cooler temperatures
are just around the corner.
→ Jump in the boat with us while the weather’s still
perfect! DM or email me now at DFcaptains@gmail.com
to learn how you can try dragon boat racing for free in Redwood City.
- Alex, YOUR Minister of Newbie Happiness 🐲
Copyright 2026 DieselFish Dragon Boat Team. All rights reserved.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 🐲
My perfect Saturday is filled with exercise, teamwork, and even a little bit of struggle. Read on to learn more. [ONLY FIVE SECOND READ]
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!
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 🐲
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.
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
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.
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 🐲
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.
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.
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 🐲
