Dragon Boat History
Dragon Boat Racing is an ancient Chinese tradition that’s is one of the fastest growing water sports in the United States and internationally. Dragon Boat festivals present a unique opportunity to blend athleticism, community building and cultural enrichment.
The Legend of Qu Yuan
The origins of dragon boats can be traced to the fate of Qu Yuan, a renowned 4th c. BCE Chinese poet, statesman, and royal advisor. Qu Yuan was undermined by competing royal advisors and banished from the land he loved by the king. Qu Yuan wandered through foreign lands writing poetry. When he heard news that his homeland had been invaded and overcome by sorrow threw himself into the torrents of the Milou River. Local fisherman, who loved and admired Qu Yuan, raced to their fishing boats to save him. In an attempt to keep water dragons & fish from eating Qu Yuan’s body, they wildly beat their drums, tossed in rice dumplings and splashed the river with their paddles. Modern dragon boat racing grew from an annual reenactment of this dramatic tale. The sport has grown into an international competitive event, with Dragon Boat Races held around the globe from Hong Kong to Sydney, and San Francisco to London, not to mention MONTGOMERY!
184 days until Race Day.
User login
Leading Sponsors
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
