TEAM USA Women's National Teams
2025 Senior A (40+) and B (50+) and C (60+ short boat)
Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany -- July 14-20, 2025
FAQ
Q: How do I get a scheduled for a time trial with the Senior A&B Mixed teams?
ALL MIXED TEAM HEAD COACHES have access to our time trial results. THEY will reach out to our gals based on results.
Best way to "show your interest" to the mixed team coach, is to post a top 5 time of your age group on your side. Mixed coaches for Premier and Senior B will likely start their time trials in April concluding by Early May.
Message: Care for your women's time. If you are fast enough, mixed coaches will come calling.
Q: In defining "fastest time", will wind/current conditions be incorporated?
A: YES. "Fastest time" is defined as one's performance. Coach will look at the wind and current conditions in determining the best performers. Times posted under extreme weather conditions will likely not be considered.
Q: Will my time posted at another TEAM USA time trial like Premier or Senior C be considered for A or B?
A: YES. just let us know the time, site and model of OC.
Q: 8 hours/week average for paddling. Does Off season ERG work count?
A: The 8 hours is a guideline to help candidates understand the level of commitment required. If you can put in an honest 8 hours a week, every week of the year whether on the water or on an ERG with a paddle adapter...you will have a shot to be among those selected. There are never guarantees.
Q: Do you have a strength training and weight program?
A: Everyone's physique is little different - requiring a unique fitness and strength training. Have your trainer work back from the OC-1 and develop a proper training program for you based on your workout and body build. Building the foundation are always important with any physical activity. This includes: heavy work on core, cardio and strength training.
Bottom line: 90% or more of the selection will be based on the OC-1 time trial. That is it! There is no secret, no short cut. Get your time in on the OC-1. Get stronger in the weight room, but it is more important to pile on the hours on the OC-1 so you can build understanding of moving on the water and your confidence. Supplement this OC-1 time with time on the dragon boat.
I will not be tracking nor recording anyone's training. Getting stronger is very important, getting water time is more important.
Try to spend cap your gym work at 45 minutes/day.
Feel free to contact our assistant coaches for a fitness, training program.
Q: How may time trials may I take part?
A: As often as you want. This gives everyone an opportunity to improve their times through the year.
A: We will try to cover each region around the country between 2024-May 2025.
A: you may test on your other side on the same day if everyone got in their 1st timed run.
Q: Are there differences in selection criteria between teams?
A: TEAM USA coaches operate independently based on how they interpret the rules and guidelines given to them by USDBF. Expect differing criteria between coaches about their training, testing and selection process. Description of these for each coach will be posted on www.usdbf.org under TEAM USA.
Q: May I attend more than 1 camp?
A: Yes!
A: All camps are optional. We will have week long camp in March/April. We will host several weekend mini camps around the country.
Q: What do you need from me as a steerer or drummer candidate?
A: Send a video or link of a video of you in these roles during a race.
A. Steerer and drummer candidates for the Senior Women's A&B teams, need to attend one of camps and/or tune up race.
Q: How are you selecting your paddlers to fill the seats in Senior B?
A: Senior B standard boat = anyone 50+ who are among next 10 fastest left performers and next 10 fastest right performers
A: Senior B short boat = anyone 50+ who among the next 5 fastest left performers and next 5 fastest right performers who aren't already on Senior B standard boat rosters.
Alternates for all rosters TBD
Q: How many candidates are trying our for Senior A&B?
A: For the 2021 cycle, nearly 200 individuals posted a time trial (over 500 times recorded). Of which 160s=40+, 260s=50+, 40s=60+.