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The Dragon Boat race will be held from 8am to 6pm along the 3.5 km Dubai Marina canal, in front of the new Clubhouse, with over 800 participants in 40 teams expected to take part.
Dragon Boating puts together 22 team mates on an oar powered boat decorated with carved and painted dragon heads and tails. The tournament will unfold with a series of heats from which teams will be eliminated to eventually reveal the finalists. Physically and mentally challenging, dragon boat racing requires a paddler's synchronized precision and is a perfect team building activity. The sport is believed to have started 2,500 years ago in China with many popular myths of folklore surrounding its origin. Visitors have the option of watching the races as they enjoy a delectable Friday brunch offered by the Aquara restaurant or relax with a coffee at the 25º55º café bistro.
Mr Steve Stiglbauer, General Manager, Dubai Marina Yacht Club, said:
"Dragon Boat racing has become one of the most popular sports in the Near and Far East, and Dubai Marina Canal is a perfect venue to host the event. By hosting a dragon boat race as our inaugural event, we are placing focus on water events that bring people together."
He added, "Teams from around the UAE can participate in this inaugural event, which will provide a fulfilling day of good exercise, camaraderie and sportsmanship. The Dragon Boat Festival will provide the very best of fun and excitement for participants and observers and will be a fascinating spectacle to enjoy for the canal's residents and visitors."
Corporate companies, schools and social groups can enter teams, while individuals as well can apply for the event. Training and equipment will be provided prior to the event and up to 20 members per team may enter. Spectators can view the race from many vantage points in the area. Primary spectator car parking will be available at the Dubai Marina Mall car park.
The Dubai Marina Yacht Club is set to become the new centre of lifestyle yachting in Dubai, and features a marine retail shopping arcade, international yacht sales and brokers' offices, a ship chandlery & nautical gifts store, a yachting fashion boutique and charter yachts. Built facing its own 116-berth private marina, the ground floor opens out through a waterfront café/bistro onto a public boulevard encircling the canal called Marina Walk.
Posted by Siba Sami Ammari
