People's upper body strength is being put to the test today as they take part in the BOP Dragon Boating Club's open day at Sulphur Point.

The club is hosting the annual open day in hopes of attracting more members.

People of all ages are taking part on the BOP Dragon Boating Club open day today. Photos: Tracy Hardy.

Club president Colleen Harris says the day is going extremely well.

'We have the first fine day in three years. This year we have done a lot of advertising across all newspapers, radio and through social media, and it seems to have paid off.

'We have had an exceptional turnout today, so we are very happy. In the open division for men and women we have had about 20 new people arrive. We're really pleased.”

When asked how people are taking to Dragon Boating, Colleen thought a lot of people were finding out that they are not particularly fit at the moment.

'They might be fit in the sense of doing a lot of walking or running but their upper body and core strength is perhaps not there at the moment.”

Colleen says it's pleasing to see more men showing an interest in the sport and hopes to be able to grow the club's men's division.

'This is the only official open day, but we train twice a week – on a Saturday morning and on a Wednesday night. Anyone is welcome to come at any stage throughout the rest of the year.

'We have had people that have joined us before today in January and have gone to nationals in March.”

While the group enjoys each other's company off the water, things turn serious once the paddlers hit the water.

'We have about 50 members at the moment and are hoping to grow out club, especially our men's division.”

Anyone interested in see what the club's about are invited to head along with their training times on Saturday morning and Wednesday night.

The only conditions are that people must wear comfortable clothing, no jeans. Jandals or water shoes preferred, bring a water bottle and must be able to swim.