The 23rd China Ankang Dragon Boat Racing on Hanjiang River Officially Kicks off

On the morning of June 22, the 23rd China Ankang Dragon Boat Racing on the Hanjiang River kicked off at the China Ankang Dragon Boat Culture Park to celebrate the traditional Dragon Boat Festival.

Opening ceremony (Photo by Zhang Yuchen)

The opening ceremony was a spectacular showcase of melodious and dulcet singing, clear and resonant reciting, and energetic dancing. Sounds of cheering and applause from the enthusiastic on-site spectators never stopped during the event.

The traditional ritual (Photo by Zhang Yuchen)

Following the performances, the traditional ritual of Ankang's dragon boat customs commenced with dragon head worship. On the stage, the shield formation formed by dozens of people shouted three times, inviting the dragon formation to escort the dragon head to the center of the stage with firm steps. The chief sacrificial officer stood on a high platform, stroked the dragon's whiskers, dusted off the dust on it, and kowtowed three times before reciting a toast. The officer then completed the rituals of dragon worship and dragon joining in sequence, representing thousands of people praying to heaven for good weather and peace for all families.

The dragon joining ritual (Photo by Zhang Yuchen)

With heavy drumbeats and powerful shouting and singing, 28 dragon boat teams began the traditional folk event, namely the dragon boat racing. In the "catching ducks and touching carps" section, contestants jumped off their boats and caught ducks and carps with bare hands in the turbulent river. The winners held high the "trophy" in their hands, sending blessings of wealth, auspiciousness, peace, and well-being to everyone.

The dragon boat racing (Photo by Zhang Yuchen)

"Catching ducks and touching carps" (Photo by Zhang Yuchen)

Ankang's unique dragon boat customs have developed over time due to the city's reliance on water transportation on the Hanjiang River. To this day, the charm of dragon boat racing is still a highlight in Ankang's culture. Since the first Dragon Boat Racing was held in 2000, Ankang has successfully held the Dragon Boat Racing 22 times. The event has become an important brand of Ankang to promote cultural prosperity, economic development, and further opening up of the city.