YOUR FIRST DRAGON BOAT EVENT
What is dragon boat racing?
A crew, a drummer and a shared finish line. Discover the team challenge that brings colleagues, supporters and young people together on the water.
THE BASICS
One boat. Everyone plays a part.
Up to 16 paddlers
Seated in pairs, moving as one
1 drummer + our helm
Your rhythm, encouragement and steering
Dragon boat racing is an energetic team water sport in long, canoe-like boats with decorative dragon heads and tails. Crews paddle side by side over a short course, following the drummer’s beat while a helm steers from the stern. Working in unison is what brings the boat to life.
Around 200m
Short races, with the course set for your event
THE HISTORY OF DRAGON BOAT RACING
Ancient roots.
Shared spirit.
The boats, drums and festival atmosphere have roots in Chinese traditions stretching back more than 2,000 years. Today, that heritage lives on in a sport enjoyed around the world.
Early races formed part of seasonal rituals linked to water, rainfall and a prosperous harvest. The dragon was honoured as a symbol associated with rivers, rain and good fortune.
A well-known legend connects the festival with the poet Qu Yuan. After he drowned in the Miluo River, local people are said to have raced out in boats, beating drums and splashing paddles in an effort to save him and protect his body.
Hong Kong’s first international dragon boat races in 1976 helped bring the sport to a wider audience. Today, racing includes international competitions alongside community festivals, charity fundraising and corporate team days.