Are you ready to try something new, get active, and be part of a vibrant team? Team Calapya, Ridgefield’s dragon boat team, is looking for new members to join the crew for the 2025 season! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, there’s a place for you on the water.
About Ridgefield’s Dragon Boat Program
The Ridgefield Dragon Boat Program was born from the purchase of two retired Kaohsiung boats from the Portland Rose Festival. The boats were restored and brought to life again by volunteers with the Ridgefield Art Association and Ridgefield Lions Club. The paddling program began in 2023 with free community paddles, and Team Calapya was officially formed in 2024.
Why Join Team Calapya?
There are many compelling reasons to join Team Calapya and start dragon boating, but the best people to tell you about it is the team members themselves.
No experience? No problem! Dragon boating is one of the most welcoming sports you can try, and Calapya is open to paddlers of all skill levels. “The team is the most diverse group of individuals I have encountered in any sporting challenge, and each person has a delightfully unique personality,” says Paul Bulger, 68. Newcomers quickly find their rhythm with the help of supportive teammates. “Everyone starts somewhere, and dragon boating is all about showing up, trying your best, and enjoying the journey,” shares Erik Odegard, 60. “No experience is needed—just a willingness to learn and have fun.”
Even beginners can jump right in and paddle on their very first day. “No experience required!” says Liana Berge, 69. “As long as you don’t mind getting wet!” And as a relatively new team entering its third season, Calapya is the perfect place for first-time paddlers. “We all started brand new, and everyone on the team has had to work on getting better,” explains Kayla Gunderson, 36. Jen Sedwick, 55, recalls her own experience: “I was a beginner and picked up the skills and endurance needed without trouble. Our team has all levels of paddlers, and we all want to help each other and have fun on the water.”
The team also offers an affordable way to try the sport, with a three-practice trial period before committing. Equipment, including paddles and life jackets, is provided—so all you need to bring is enthusiasm!
Beyond learning a new sport, Team Calapya offers a range of incredible benefits. Paddling is an excellent full-body workout that builds strength, endurance, and coordination. “Joining Calapya has really inspired me to take a more active interest in my personal fitness,” says Jen Sedwick, 55. “The best part about being on the team, and paddling on a regular basis, is that while it can be an intense workout, it doesn’t feel like work—it’s more fun than anything else.”
More than just a sport, dragon boating is about community. “The dragon boat community is like no other,” shares Erik Odegard, 60. “It’s a mix of people from all walks of life, united by their love for the sport and each other. The shared effort, laughter, and celebrations create a bond that feels more like family than just a team.”
And if you love being outdoors, paddling is the perfect way to unwind. “Being on the water is the perfect way to cancel out the noise of the world,” says Liana Berge, 69. “It’s peaceful and refreshing.” Plus, for those who thrive on competition, Team Calapya offers the opportunity to race in local, national, and even international events! In 2024 the team plans to enter races at the Portland Rose Festival, World Beat Festival in Salem, Paddle for Life in Ridgefield, and the Portland Dragon Boat Festival.
The regular season runs March 16 through October 4. Practices are Wednesdays 6-7:30 PM and Sundays 10-11:45 AM.
Community Paddling
For anyone not quite ready to join the team, but still wanting to get on the water and experience the thrill of synchronized paddling, the Community Paddling program kicks off in June!
The regular season for free community paddles will run June 20 through October 4 in 2025, with weekly paddles each Friday at 6:30 PM. These are no commitment opportunities to get paddling on a dragon boat for an evening. Registration on Meetup is required.
Save the Date: Informational Meeting
Join us for an informational meeting about the City of Ridgefield's Dragon Boat program at Ridgefield Craft Brewing! At this meeting you will get to learn more about the program, the free Community Paddles, and the competitive Calapya Dragon Boat race team! Grab a drink, order food, and mingle with team members and other interested paddlers. This is a 21+ establishment.
2025 Kick-off Informational Meeting
6-8 PM Wednesday, February 26
Ridgefield Craft Brewing Taphouse, 120 N 3rd Ave
Please register to attend on Meetup so we know you are coming.
Don’t miss this chance to be part of something exciting! For questions, contact Coach Amy Stevens at calapya@gmail.com.