Dragon Boat festivals are held all over the world. Teams that participate can be medical organizations, pan-Asian groups, or just ordinary people who want to try the sport. These races are held because they bring communities together and keep long-held traditions alive. It’s also fun and accessible for all!
The dragon boat festival honors a respected figure named Qu Yuan. Due to the corrupt government in the kingdom of Chu, Qu Yuan was falsely accused of disloyalty by his political rivals, leading to his exile from the kingdom. As a final act of declaration against the government, he drowned himself in the Mi Lo River. The Chinese people deemed this as an honorary act, prompting fishermen to row swiftly in an attempt to retrieve the body. To ensure that the fish did not consume the body, they beat drums and threw rice dumplings to divert their attention. This practice became a long-standing tradition that persists to this day.
The dragon boat is a very technical design, specifically built to continue the tradition while maintaining speed during a race. This tradition was founded in Southern China. A dragon boat is typically eight to 18 meters long and can hold between ten to 20 people. It is made of teak wood and is embellished with painted dragon scales and a gong in the middle of the boat. Besides the rowers, there is also a steersperson and drummer. The steersperson uses the long steering oar to guide the boat while the drummer hits the drum to keep everyone in rhythm.
Dragon boat racing also has a rich tradition in the state of Wisconsin. The Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival has occurred since 2002. Another festival, the Northeast Wisconsin Dragon Boat Festival is held in Oshkosh yearly. But how did dragonboat racing make its way to Wisconsin? In 1976, the Hong Kong Tourist Association created an international dragon boat race to bring tourists from around the world to Hong Kong. It was a big hit, and soon dragon boat racing spread around the world. This launched the modern era of this sport. Eventually, groups like the Superior Rotary and the city of Oshkosh DEI committee founded their dragon boat races. In the most recent 2024 Paris Olympics, there was a dragon boat race.
Dragon boat racing is a sport that allows a wide range of people to participate. The races in Oshkosh are for teens and parents alike. All can participate in this event. Maybe next time, you should try this exciting sport!
[Sources: Wisconsin Public Radio; Madison365; International Dragon Boat Federation]
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