Dragon Boat World Championships in Thailand

I MADE IT!!! It has been SUCH a ride these past few years. I started paddling 6 years ago and never thought my skinny self would get to the point where I would actually be representing the United States as a paddler in the Dragon Boat World Championships in Pattaya, Thailand.

Getting to this point has been a real journey and a dream come true. The past 6 months was full of heavy training- paddling, gymming, conditioning 6-7 days a week every single week. I am excited to race with the top paddlers in the nation against some of the fastest countries in the world in the U24 division.

Dragon boat in itself has played such a big role in my life. I started off as the weak skinny kid who people thought was anorexic. People were constantly pointing out how skinny I was and commenting about my thin arms, legs, and everything. Dragon boat provided a community where it didn’t matter how big or small you are when you start. Through all the support of the teams and communities I was part of, I was able to become stronger. No one cared about how skinny or weak I was, they only cared that I loved the sport and wanted to grow.


I have been lucky to have been surrounded by so many supportive people. I learned to love the sport when I started paddling for *Asterisk. I thought paddling was dumb at the time, but it grew on me and I found a place for me there.



I found the importance of family in Riverside Surging Dragons, where I met some of my closest friends and led the team to A division for the first time in history.

I learned how big the paddling world was during the summer I paddled with Dragon Warriors. I was surrounded by so many amazing people, coaches, and mentors.

I discovered that paddling is a sport that you can enjoy throughout your entire life because of NAC, where I got destroyed by people 3 times my age but who are always there to pick me up and guide me through it all.

Lastly, I found where home is with Rising Tide Dragon Boat, a team that was built with some of my closest friends who I now consider as family.

Dragon boat was an interest that became a hobby and then a passion shortly after. I definitely would not be the person I am today if not for the sport. I never thought I would be a part of something that would make me wake up at 6am almost every weekend because I hate waking early, but I am grateful that I’m waking up for something that I am truly passionate about. I am grateful for all of the memories, lessons, people, mentors, friends who shaped me into who I am today.

I hate asking for donations, but a lot of things have been going on in my life, and this is a dream come true for me. Any amount, even $1, would be extremely appreciated to help me continue my journey with dragon boat. Gofundme also has a 2.9% service fee, so if you would like to support through venmo, my tag is @ondrian. Thank you everyone for your support!!!