Launch Drivers are responsible for the overall safety of dragonboating participants on the river.  Candidates should be 18 years or older and be in decent physical condition. 

No prior experience is necessary as candidates will learn the Rules of the River, safety procedures, engine operation, and basic dragonboating commands.  Launch drivers get the dragon boats ready for the practice sessions, and in conjunction with the steerspeople, make weather related decisions.  Launch Drivers can be either a paddler or non-paddling team supporter.  Drivers typically provide their services for other teams so as not to conflict with their own team's practice schedule.  Launch Drivers get a unique opportunity to experience one of our regions greatest natural resources from a perspective that very few citizens get to experience.

All team practices must be accompanied by a safety launch boat, driven by a PIDBF-approved launch driver. Launch drivers can learn about their role and gain their PIDBF certification at one of our Training Clinics.