The Dampier Mankini Qajaq Club was formed in 2012 by four local kayakers with a fondness for their craft and the European symbol of class - the mankini...
The Club was formed over a few ales at a reputable drinking establishment in Dampier. Three gentlemen had each purchased a qayaq (kayak) with the objective of paddling together on a regular basis and then meeting socially afterwards.
The Mankini component came about through repeated requests by females that we wear the celebrated European symbol of class. Initially that request came from our wives but it gathered momentum and soon enough, total strangers (women) were approaching us in the street, pleading that we reneg on our decision to wear stubbies and blue singlets. In the end, we folded under the pressure.
Qajaq is the Innuit word that was changed phonetically to kayak. We prefer the original word as it has a style about it that reflects the culture of our membership, and allows us to incorporate all types of craft within our club - from sit-on-tops to cockpit craft - all paddling people are welcomed. It has also broadened our Scrabble vocabulary.
Many people ask us "Why the Yak as your mascot?". Put simply, the yak is a fearsome, intelligent, strong and muscular beast...
The DMQC is open to both men and women paddlers of all ages. If you’d like to join in on one of the regular DMQC paddles, please meet the crew just north of the Hampton Harbour Yacht Club at 4:45pm on the first Thursday of each month. A good sense of humour is all that's required... you don't even need a Qajaq… or a mankini.
- Category:
- Professional sports team