Hong Kong’s dragon boat racers have created an impact with locals and visitors alike during the Tuen Ng Festival, attracting throngs to events and carnivals around the city.
On Monday, revellers disregarded the rare raindrop and headed to waterfronts in Stanley, Tai O, Aberdeen, Sai Kung, Sha Tin, Tuen Mun, and Tai Po to watch local and international Dragon Boat Festival events.
According to organizers, over 1,600 participants began arriving at 7 a.m. at the local seaside park in Tai Po to prepare for the race at 8.15 a.m.
Despite the overcast sky above Tai Po, 69 teams of rowers of all ages competed in 18 races along the 500-meter course, up from 56 the previous year.
Tai Po Sports Organization CEO Luke Lam Luk-wing stated he was unconcerned about the likelihood of rain, despite the Hong Kong Observatory forecasting an 80% probability of rain.
“I am not concerned about the weather today. “If it rains a little, it helps keep everyone cool,” he explained.
Lam further attributed the rise in attendees to having more time to plan activities compared to immediately following the COVID-19 epidemic.
“Last year, the pandemic restrictions were lifted in March, and the deadline for application to the race was in April. Many teams didn’t have enough time to practice, hence they didn’t apply,” he stated.
Bruce Wan, captain of the St. Paulians Dragon team, which was created by St. Paul’s Co-Educational College alumni, said it was the group’s first race in Tai Po.
“We practice weekly all year and compete in three to four races each year,” the technology weorkr in his thirties explained.
“We have roughly 50 people on our team, covering more than 30 years of alumni. It’s an excellent way for elderly guys and girls to keep in touch. If we win, we will enjoy a large lunch with the entire squad and our coach.”
Queena Wong kept an eye out for her teenage son, who was competing in the local Scouts’ dragon boat team, among the people sitting on the promenade rails.
“He worked really hard for this; there were eight weeks of weekly practice, and they began from scratch. “It was difficult and a good workout,” remarked the rehabilitation specialist, who is in her forties.
Organiser Luk said this year was the first time a carnival was staged alongside the marathon in Taipei, and he expected 10,000 people to attend throughout the day.
The carnival has dragon boat-themed vendors with a variety of games and food, as well as workshops with activities like making your own boat out of Lego, picture opportunities, and crafts.
Chan Lai-wai, a homemaker and Tai Po resident, came with her husband to enjoy the festive mood and support the local event, stating that the town was fortunate to have rather decent weather.
“We enjoy going to dragon boat races and the bustling atmosphere; they’re very exciting,” said the 60-year-old.
However, she remarked that some of the merchants’ items were prohibitively expensive.
“We had a look at the stalls but didn’t make any purchases,” she said.
“One booth was selling a chicken leg for HK$40 [US$5.1], which we felt was extremely exorbitant, especially given how terrible the economy is right now. “People will be unable to afford it.”
In Sai Kung, Briton Theodore Smith joined the crowds on the local promenade to watch the races.
“Great Britain holds their own dragon boat races, but I’ve never watched one until today,” remarked the man.
“I admired how the contestants engaged. It was fantastic to observe each team’s camaraderie and competition. I suppose this is one item off my list of things to do in Hong Kong.
Kims Au, who coaches the Hong Kong Southern District Women’s Association dragon boat team, guided her team to first runner-up in the women’s championship final.
She stated that the weather wasn’t an issue. “It doesn’t matter if it is raining; we will still compete to win,” she stated.
The seasoned racer, who has participated for over a decade, stated that her squad won several prizes in Monday’s races.
“I am glad the squad was able to take something home today. “We’ll always look forward to [next year’s] events,” she stated.
