Frequently asked questions
The most common questions about registration, crews, race day and safety. If yours is missing, ask us on WhatsApp.
For companies
Who can take part?
The festival is built for organisations. Company crews are made up of employees, and in 2026 public bodies and club crews raced alongside companies. Crews are split into finals by time, so everyone races at their own level.
Can a company enter more than one crew?
Yes. Several companies have raced two crews in past seasons (Pakkens 1, Eker 2). Places are limited, so tell us your crew count early.
How and when do we register?
Send an enquiry through the form or WhatsApp. Your place is confirmed with a contract and a deposit. Registration for 2027 is open, and early entries get better pricing.
How much does it cost?
Pricing depends on the package, number of crews and extras such as catering, shirts and video. We send a tailored quote after your enquiry.
Crew and practice
How many people are in a crew?
Fourteen: 12 paddlers, 1 drummer and 1 steerer. We can fill empty seats from the club.
We have never paddled. Is that a problem?
No. Most participants are first-timers. You practise on the water with a coach before racing, which is enough to learn the basic stroke.
What do the drummer and steerer do?
The drummer sits in the bow and sets the stroke rate. The steerer stands at the stern, keeps the boat straight with a long oar and calls the commands.
Race day
What is the race format?
The course is 200 metres. Crews race heats, then are seeded by time into semi-finals and A, B and C finals, so every crew races a final against boats of similar pace.
How long is a race?
A race lasts about a minute. The 2023 winners, Pakkens 1, clocked 1:12.89, and the 2026 champions ASMAR won the championship final in 00:56.27.
When is the festival held?
On a single day in June. The 2026 festival was on 27 June, and the 6th Bursa Dragon Cup is on 5 June 2027.
How are times measured?
Races follow Turkish Canoe Federation rules and are run by official judges. Times are taken by stopwatch and camera, and crews can appeal.
Safety
What safety measures are in place?
Everyone wears a life jacket. A safety boat follows the races and first aid is on site. Every participant signs a health declaration and attends a safety briefing.
What if the weather turns bad?
If wind or storms affect safety, the judges may delay or shorten the programme. Team captains are told straight away.
What should we bring?
Sportswear that can get wet, a change of clothes, a towel, sunscreen, a cap and water. Paddles, life jackets and boats are provided.
Book your place for 2027
The 6th Bursa Dragon Cup is on 5 June 2027. Registration is open, so book now to get the early-entry advantages.