News

Trial held for Black Dragons for Germany 2025

Published Sat 15 Mar 2025

Aoraki region had a good number of athletes submit an Expression of Interest in joing the NZ "Black Dragons" team to represent Aotearoa at the 17th World Dragon Boat Racing Championships, to be held at the Regatta Venue Beetzsee in Brandenburg /Havel, Germany from 14th – 20th July 2025.

So Aoraki Dragons was pleased to host three of the Black Dragons Coaches at an on-the-water trial on Saturday 15 March 2025.

Mike Robinson spent the day in the hot sun, driving the three coaches (Paora, Jimmy and Bird) alongside the two boats of trial athletes.

Finally, a note we received from the Black Dragons:

"Kia Ora Aoraki/Noel/Mike/Meri

Our sincere thanks for allowing today’s NZ Black Dragons trial in Christchurch to progress so seamlessly; it was a great day with some great athletes in attendance - we couldn’t have asked for a better day than today.

We so appreciate you giving up your time today for the trials and a special thank you to Mike and Noel for the shelter and driving the chase boat.

Meri - it was so special to see you today, thank you for making time to come out today.

Caleb - thank you for acting as the amazing chauffeur for the Hamilton coaches getting them safely to and from the airport.

Your hospitality to our managers and travelling coaches was memorable & we cannot thank you enough; we appreciate you all.

Our sincere thanks and wishing your teams all the best at the upcoming regionals next week.

Ngā mihi,

Dee & Kirita

NZ Black Dragons National Managers