After two months of coaching, training, and off-water trials, the 2025 program coaches have finalised the Auckland Regional Representative Crew.
A record 126 athletes submitted Expressions of Interest (EOIs) this season, surpassing last year’s total of 116. From this impressive pool, 85 paddlers have been selected to represent Auckland and defend our regional title, along with the Ben Afitu Shield, at the 2025 National Championships on 4-5 April at Lake Karapiro.
These athletes have been selected from their respective home dragon boating clubs to represent Auckland. While each club will also compete at Nationals, the Auckland Representative Crew provides an opportunity for the region’s top paddlers to unite and compete against other regions, bringing together the strongest talent Auckland has to offer.
For those not selected for a racing crew this season, the program coaches would like to express their appreciation for the hard work and dedication shown throughout the trials. The journey to becoming a Regional Representative athlete doesn’t end here, and all athletes are encouraged to continue striving toward their goals. There will always be more opportunities ahead to grow, compete, and succeed.
Auckland will field six regional crews at Nationals, including:
The Ben Afitu Shield, awarded to the region with the most wins in Regional Representative races, has become a highly sought-after prize for Auckland.
Our region has claimed the Shield in 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024, solidifying our position as a dominant force in dragon boating. With a strong team heading into the 2025 championships, Auckland is determined to defend its title and uphold the tradition of success.
The Auckland Dragon Boat Association congratulates all selected paddlers and looks forward to their performances at the championships.
We encourage the wider Auckland community to come along and support our teams at the National Championships.