Dragon Boat Festival brings competition and community across Hong Kong

Today marks the Dragon Boat Festival in Hong Kong, with dragon boat races taking place in districts across the region. Over 190 teams from Hong Kong and abroad participated in competitions at various locations. 

One of the major events was the Stanley International Dragon Boat Championships, held at Stanley Main Beach. With a track length of just 270 meters, competitors faced intensive racing conditions in the shorter distance. Nearly 4,000 paddlers competed across 54 preliminary heats, semi-finals and finals. 

Athletes arrived early in the morning to warm up for the competitions. Many local residents and tourists also came to watch the races. Some participants noted the pleasant weather, in contrast to expectations, and said the lively atmosphere reinforced feelings of unity after challenges brought by the pandemic. 

This year's Stanley event featured an expanded number of categories, growing from five to six. A new Sun Life Academic University Cup was also added. Or, a university student who recently began his junior year, took part in dragon boat racing for the first time. While noting the short preparation time, his goal was to win the championship. 

Cheers could be heard throughout the area as the energetic competitions unfolded. The dragon boat festivals drew new and experienced racers alike to aim for victory, all within a spirit of community on this special holiday.

Mads, a visitor from Denmark, said watching the dragon boat race was an exciting experience. He was particularly impressed by the speed and power showcased by the athletes.

A British expat Paul stated that he came to Stanley to cheer for his wife, who was participating in the race. He also added that he enjoyed the energetic atmosphere very much.

The dragon boat races were also held at Sha Tin and Tai Po, with hundreds of spectators immersing themselves in the traditional event.

In addition to exploring Hong Kong, international tourists can take a short ferry ride to the vibrant city of Macao. For a limited time until July 31, the Macao Government Tourism Office is offering complimentary one-way tickets for direct ferry services from Hong Kong to Macao. Not to mention a seamless and complimentary journey from Hong Kong International Airport to the Macao Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. Kindly note that complimentary bus tickets are limited and will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. For more details, visit https://www.macaotourism.gov.mo/en/events/whatson/10293/.