Send Zelda to Thailand for Team USA!

Hello! My name is Zelda and I’ve been paddling dragon boat competitively for five years with DC Dragons. This year, I’ve been selected to represent the US on the U24 dragon boat team at the World Dragon Boat Racing Championships held in Pattaya, Thailand! However, the expenses for trialing and competing are a lot and I need help to get there.

When I first started dragon boat with my youth team, racing with everyone was one of the most fun things I ever experienced. I joined DC Dragons in 2018, and it has given me opportunities I couldn't have imagined. My coaches and team have taught me so much and encouraged me to try as hard as I can. The first time I tried out for U24 in 2019, I was the slowest paddler there. I wanted to try out again, but the 2021 cycle was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and it became difficult for me to paddle. The 2023 cycle is the last chance for me to paddle for U24 before I age out and I finally made it! Paddling for the USA at the international level is an amazing opportunity, but travel expenses are not subsidized.

To try out for U24 this cycle, I am required to attend two camps: one in Tempe, AZ and one in Los Angeles, CA. I also need to fund my travel to Thailand for Worlds. I'm a full-time student and only work part-time. Accounting for airfare, transportation, food, and lodging, traveling to Tempe cost me 1k, and the LA camp will be 1.5k. Thailand, by itself, will cost 3.5k. The cost is difficult for me to take on by myself, so anything would be extremely helpful! I am incredibly grateful to represent the USA, and for the support that got me this far. Thank you all so much!