The My Angel Foundation is happy to announce it is partnering with the Chinese Cultural Center of America (CCCA) for the 2009 Paddling for Hope Dragon Boat Races. This partnership will facilitate some exciting changes that will enhance the 2009 Padding for Hope Dragon Boat Races. The venue is being changed from Gray's Lake to downtown Des Moines on the Des Moines River in front of the beautiful Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens. The backdrop of the Asian Gardens will provide a rich cultural ambiance in keeping the history of dragon boat racing. The opening ceremony for the race is being planned to include a traditional Lion Dance and an awakening of the dragon ceremony complete with firecrackers. The date of the 2009 races is being changed from August 15 to August 01 to coincide with and be a part of the opening ceremony events for the Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens.

The goals of My Angel Foundation include promoting awareness of organ and tissue donation needs. The goals of the CCCA include cultivating understanding, respect and friendship among people of diverse cultures. The goals of the City of Des Moines include building and maintaining a vibrant, exciting and successful downtown. The synergy created by this partnership will enhance and further all of these goals. We look forward to you joining us on August 01 for a fun filled day of racing and sharing in support of all of these great causes.

Early Bird Team Registration for the 2009 Paddling for Hope Races is only $500 if Registration Packet is postmarked by May 15, 2009. After May 15th team registration fee is $600.

Click here to learn why My Angel Foundation cares!

If you’re interested in getting involved in dragon boating, we encourage you to start thinking ahead and planning for the 2009 races now!

You will need to recruit twenty people to your team. While that may sound like a lot, we find that most teams have no problem filling these slots once the word starts getting around. That’s eighteen paddlers, a drummer, and a flag catcher. Recruiting two or three alternates is optional, but highly recommended. You can race with fewer paddlers if you can’t find enough, but 16 paddlers is the minimum. Each team must race with at least 8 female team members and team members must be at least 16 years old by the day of the race. No prior experience required! Teams can be formed through your company, church, friends, family and neighbors.

All necessary equipment will be provided. This includes paddles, personal flotation devices, and a qualified steersperson for practices as well as event day. Start forming a team NOW!

If you have questions please contact Ted Cochran at ted <(at)> myangelfoundation <(dot)> org or at 515.339.6721.

Dragon Boating and the reality of corporate life today have a strong connection. They are both fast paced; they have to deal with changing external environments; and most of all, they both rely heavily on the 'ultimate team' in order to succeed.

While the mechanics of dragon boating are easy to describe, the sensation of the experience is not. The evidence of its power and impact is clear. It has become the fastest growing water sport in the world. Being one of the most accessible sports, dragon boat racing can truly be enjoyed by everyone. There is a sense of camaraderie, unity, personal accountability and achievement that fosters the growth of a true team - in and out of the boat.

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Team Registration Form
Official Rules & Regulations
Team Race Center
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Paddling for Hope Races Pictures
2009 Promotional Video

1. Download and mail in your team registration form and official rules & regulations.
2. Setup a team page within the "Team Race Center".
3. Pay the team registration fee.