NEWS RELEASE (#2025-12)
IDBF Announces New Athletes Commission Leadership
The International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) is pleased to formally announce the new Athletes Commission for the 2025–2027 term, following its inaugural meeting held in late August. The Commission was first introduced informally at the Closing Ceremony of the IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Championships in Brandenburg on 8 August 2025.
We extend our sincere thanks to Sue Holloway for her dedicated service as Chair of the Athletes Commission and as an Executive and Council Member. Her leadership has been instrumental in strengthening athlete representation and shaping the Commission’s future direction. At the Brandenburg Closing Ceremony, Sue presented the incoming Commission to Council and paddlers.
The newly appointed Athletes Commission comprises:
- Ross Flemer – USA
- Gianni Aprea – Hong Kong
- Ma Qingliang – China
- Daniel Woods – UAE
- David Maréchal – Canada
- Max Lowe – Germany
- Brittnee Garrett – Australia
- Nadja Arauz – Panama
Brittnee Garrett and Nadja Arauz were appointed by the IDBF President in consultation with the outgoing Chair, Sue Holloway, in accordance with Article 12 of the Athletes Commission.
At the Commission’s first formal meeting in late August, Sue Holloway chaired the opening session and delivered a handover presentation. The Commission then appointed Ross Flemer as Chair, with Gianni Aprea and David Maréchal as Vice Chairs. The group now meets monthly to advance its priorities, including the development of an Athletes Survey to gather insights and guide future advocacy.
We look forward to working with this new team to strengthen the role of athletes within the IDBF, promote our sport, and ensure that the Athletes Commission continues to be a strong and active voice in our global dragon boating community.
About the IDBF
The International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) is the global governing body for dragon boat racing. Founded in 1991, it oversees and promotes the sport of dragon boat paddling across the world. With a mission to foster unity, friendship, and fair competition, the IDBF organises multiple international world championships, sets rules and standards for dragon boat racing and equipment, and has a membership base of over 80 national federations.