About Dragon Boat Racing

Dragon boat racing began more than 2000 years ago on the banks of the life-sustaining rivers in the valleys of southern China as a fertility rite to ensure plentiful crops.

For many centuries, dragon boat racing was a violent clash known as the ‘To Fight and Cross Over’ ceremony.  Often, the race resembled a naval battle, with crews of competing boats throwing stones and striking one another with cane sticks.  Onlookers played an active role in the race.  Fans on riverside would cheer and give gifts of red and green silk to the boat from their region but would greet opposing boats with angry shouts and a hail of stones.  It was thought unlucky if that least one drowning did not occur!

Now a modern day sporting activity, dragon boat racing has become popular with charities, and corporate bodies alike.  For the former it provides a high profitable opportunity to raise funds and awareness for worthwhile causes.  For companies it offers a superb platform for team building, corporate entertainment and hospitality.

To take part in a truly historical yet safe and modern sporting activity, view our Charity or Corporate pages.