The Prince Rupert Rainbow Warriors Dragon Boat Team is recruiting for the upcoming season and they’ve got a star-studded offer for anyone looking to join that’s included in the registration fee.
Kamini Jain, a former Canadian Olympian in kayak fours in 2000 and 2004 and owner of 11 World Cup medals as well as a multi-champion in coaching Dragon Boat teams, is coming to Prince Rupert from May 2 – 3 and mentoring the Rainbow Warriors.
“She’s from Vancouver ... and she’s amazing. Although she primarily works with high-level athletes, she loves the opportunity to go back to grassroots teams where she’s not dealing with such athletic people,” said Lori McWilliams, head coach of the Rainbow Warriors.
“Often she says it’s more real and she loves coming here. We did have her here for a month two years ago and what she did with us hugely improved our technique, so we get her for two whole days on that weekend.”
The Rainbow Warriors, whose membership stands at around 25 paddlers, are looking to recruit approximately 15 more interested people for the team.
“It takes 22 paddlers ... we usually go with a really high roster,” said McWilliams.
A recruitment night for both men and women is planned for Monday, March 23 at 7 p.m. at Inn on the Harbour. The club meets Mondays and Thursdays at 6:15 p.m. at the yacht club and usually train until 8 p.m.
“Our plan is to attend the local races in Kitimat and Terrace this year,” said the coach.
Anyone looking for more information can attend Monday’s recruitment session or email McWilliams at loripaulmcw@gmail.com.