By Amanda Galloway
special correspondent

Premier Pet Products, a leading manufacturer of positive and safe pet supplies based in Midlothian, took a break from dog treats and chew toys to compete in the first Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival last Saturday.

The race, held at Rocketts Landing on the James River, featured the traditional Chinese dragon boat - a large, 40-foot flat-bottomed vessel that is rowed by approximately 20 people. Premier Pet’s team, dubbed the “Pogo’s Paddlers” after their likewise named dog logo, featured 22 people. Twenty paddled, one steered, and one was responsible for hitting the drum that keeps the team at a consistent speed. 

“Most of us had never heard of such a thing,” Nicole Backus, manager of customer service and “Pogo’s Paddler” said. “We were made aware [of dragon boat racing] by our parent team in Knoxville.  They compete every year.”

When Premier Pets made the announcement that they would be competing in Richmond’s first dragon boat race, they filled their boat immediately.

“Twenty five people signed up for 22 spots. It was a great amalgamation of all of the different departments. I’ve been at Premier for five years, and this is our first real team building experience,” Backus said.

In an act of solidarity and as a symbol of teamwork, all members of the team wore temporary tattoos of Premier Pet’s logo, Pogo, for the race.

Out of the 22 “Pogo’s Paddlers” that competed, only team captain, Laurel Haynes, had previous rowing experience. Fortunately, as part of the process, each dragon boat team is required to have two, two hour training sessions with a professional.

“They teach you how to paddle. Everyone counts from one to five, listening to the drummer. Unlike a regular boat, you only paddle on one side,” Backus said, explaining the exhausting process. The team had two intense practices on Monday, July 26, and Wednesday, July 28, before the race on Saturday. 

The event ran all day Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., as all teams were guaranteed four races. Winners then advanced based on their results.

In addition to the races, the dragon boat festival featured tents, vendors, and traditional Chinese dancers donning dragon costumes. Racers and the festival goers alike hope for the competition to continue annually.

Premier Pet Products was founded in 1989 by Sharon Madere, who had a dream to make a more effective training collar for her dog. Twenty one years later, her company has expanded to include 90 employees, specializing in safe and positive pet products, including a gentle leader head collar, an easy walk harness, and treat dispensing toys.