GEORGE TOWN: Eighty Penangites with highly tuned upper bodies will be churning up the waters on dragon boats this Saturday.
Spectators can watch them power through the waves with unflagging speed during the global Dragon Boat Festival from 3pm to 8pm at the Penang Chinese Swimming Club in Tanjung Tokong.
Although the actual date of the Dragon Boat Festival falls this Saturday, or the fifth day of the fifth month of the Chinese calendar, most dragon boat races in other parts of the world tend to be held later in the year.
This is to take advantage of more favourable weather conditions, said Penang tourism committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, adding that the Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta takes place in November.
In this regard, this Saturday’s race is billed as “one for Penangites”.
“Penang has so much sea and we should encourage water sports including rowing and ones with cultural significance,” he said, adding that races like this can attract young rowers.
The festival will also offer more than just racing.
“The public can enjoy cultural activities such as rice dumpling-making, traditional performances and a variety of food,” he said.
Penang Chinese Swimming Club president and event organising chairman Victor Tan said this was the first time they were organising the festival.
“The competition will feature a 300m sprint and a 3km race around Pulau Tikus island,” he said.
“While we welcome teams from other states, so far only Penang teams are racing this weekend,” he said of the competitive activities done in collaboration with the Penang Dragon Boat Association and Penang Rowing Association.
