By outdoor-nature-child.com On October 26, 2024, the fourth International Dragon Boat Federation World Cup kicked off in Miluo, Hunan. Eleven teams from Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Oceania are set to compete on the Miluo River, showcasing a thrilling display of “speed and passion.”
According to officials, this year’s competition features a variety of events, including standard dragon boat races over distances of 100 meters, 200 meters, and 500 meters, along with a small boat relay over 400 meters and a team pursuit over 1,000 meters. Additionally, a local open category includes twelve dragon boat teams from Miluo, racing in the same standard distances. The two groups of events will run concurrently.
Claudio Schermi, the President of the International Dragon Boat Federation, emphasized the cultural significance of the sport, stating, “Dragon boat racing is deeply rooted in Chinese traditional culture. It serves as a bridge that transcends borders, connecting hearts and conveying the noble spirit of culture, friendship, peace, and unity.” He expressed hope that one day the sport would be featured on the Olympic stage, demonstrating its unparalleled competitiveness and team spirit to the world.
Daniel Ernest Foucar, captain of the Australian team, noted the rapid growth of dragon boat racing in Australia, with events taking place in nearly every city. He expressed his excitement about competing in Miluo, the birthplace of dragon boat racing, and looks forward to deepening his team’s understanding of Chinese dragon boat culture while improving their competitive skills.
Miluo is celebrated as the origin of dragon boat culture, often referred to as the “Source of Duanwu,” “Hometown of Dragon Boats,” and “Homeland of Poetry.” Since 2005, Miluo has successfully hosted the International Dragon Boat Festival on the Miluo River for 19 consecutive years. In recognition of its dragon boat heritage, the city was designated as a “Chinese Dragon Boat City” by the General Administration of Sport of China and the China Dragon Boat Association in 2008.