Nobody likes to be called a dragon – except when they are digging deep as part of a dragon boat racing team.

As part of Play in the Bay's ‘Outdoors October' sports promotion Tauranga dragon boating club Bay Dragons' women team is encouraging anyone interested to try their hand at the traditional Chinese racing at its weekly training sessions.

Sport Bay of Plenty recreation advisor Jen Riley and the Bay Dragons.

Dragon boating, which have been raced by teams of paddlers for more than 2000 years in southern China, has become an increasingly popular sport around the world over the past 30 years.

Bay Dragon's women team spokeswoman Paulette Fraser says it's a fun way to incorporate exercise into your routine and has a strong social focus.

The team, which is open to all women over 16, trains on Wednesdays at 5.30pm and Saturdays at 7.30am (from the Cross Rd, Sulphur Point wharf). Details Trish Boocock 027 294 0757.