National

Paddlers Gear Up for 3rd Annual Bahamas Dragon Boat Festival

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Dragon boat racing is described as an invigorating water sport, originating from the Pearl River Delta region of China’s Guangdong Province.

Published

2 months ago

September 23, 2024

Denielle Miller

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Dragon boat racing is described as an invigorating water sport, originating from the Pearl River Delta region of China’s Guangdong Province.

The large canoe-like vessels which showcase elaborately carved dragons’ heads and tails are created to accommodate up to 22 member teams equipped with paddles that synchronize to the beat of the drummer on board.

With the sport rapidly gaining popularity, three years ago the Bahamas Chinese Dragon Boat Association was established.

Treasurer Angie Ao and coach Brent Wong tell us the association was created to bring awareness to the adrenaline-pumping water sport to both locals and visitors.

Locally the boats are designed to hold 14 persons consisting of a drummer, a helms-person, ten paddlers and two persons in reserve.

Brent Wong says that as teams practice. It’s more than just fun on the water but a training ground and a team-building experience.

The annual Dragon Boat Festival is scheduled for October 12-13, 2024.