From Nelson to Brandenburg: Help Me Paddle to the World Stage!

Paddling to the World Stage – Help Me Get to Germany!

Hi everyone! I’m beyond excited (and honestly still pinching myself!) to share that I’ve been selected to represent New Zealand at the 2025 World Dragon Boat Racing Championships in Brandenburg, Germany this July (from the 10th till 20th). This will be my first international competition, and I’m incredibly proud to wear the fern.

Dragon boating has been a huge part of my life — it’s challenged me, pushed me, and brought me into a community that feels like family. I started this sport not knowing where it would take me, but I’ve worked hard, trained harder, and now I’ve earned the chance to race against the world’s best.

But this opportunity is completely self-funded, and I’m reaching out for a bit of help. As much as I’ve been preparing and saving for this moment, I need your support to cover these costs and make this dream a reality = Return Flights, accommodation, race fees, uniform, and other expenses are adding up fast.

If you’re able to chip in — big or small — you’ll be helping me live out a dream I’ve poured everything into. Even a share or kind word means so much.

Thanks for believing in me and being part of this journey. Let’s cross that finish line together.

With gratitude,

Rachel Sullivan

🇳🇿🐉💪