The Ocean State Dragon Boat Club is a pioneer of dragon boat racing in Rhode Island.  Created in 2008, it is the first competitive racing club established in the state. OSDB paved the way for the Rhode Island competitive racing scene by connecting and learning from Boston area clubs, most notably Living Root. The club has been a long-standing member of the Eastern Regional Dragon Boat Association and has been volunteer driven and operated since its inception.

 

Founded on the principles of competition, camaraderie, and a shared passion for the sport, the club offers a unique space for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to connect, challenge themselves, and celebrate life on the water.  The team has enjoyed a long journey of discovery and success in building teamwork, pushing boundaries, and creating lasting memories through multiple generations of paddlers. Original founder and coach Carlos Costa and Joseph Arnold remain active with OSDB in 2024 and were vital to launching and maintaining the program through the years.  The team has not only enjoyed successes in racing but is proud of its historical charitable endeavors in the community including environmental stewardship, community team building, and substantial donations to various local good will causes. The club shares a distinct connection and location with the Rhode Island Chinese Dragon Boat Races and Taiwan Day Festival.  The team has been actively involved in promoting, volunteering, and participating in this one-of-a-kind race.  This race hosted by the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council and city of Pawtucket, RI incorporates grand colorful ornate boats and a unique flag catching element along with traditional cultural performances and community driven activities.

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The team’s current mission is to promote dragon boat racing locally, compete at a high level in our region, and to support and improve our home area of Festival Pier / Tidewater Landing in Pawtucket, RI.