Dragon Boat History
International Dragon Boat Festivals Did You Know????
Statue of Qu Yuan |
Dragon Boat LegendThe legend surrounding the
Dragon Boat Races is based on the historic suicide of Qu
Yuan, a 4th century B.C. Chinese political critic, poet,
and statesman. Repeatedly slandered, persecuted, and
disappointed by the controlling political regime, he
resolved to end his life. With a large stone clasped in
his arms, he plunged into the Milo River. Over time, the boats, which are
put out each year in the symbolic search for Qu Yuan's
body, began to take part in races until the Dragon Boat
Festival and the Cultural Legend evolved into its long
boat racing in the world. Celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth month, the Dragon Boat Festival is also known as the Double Fifth Festival. It is one the three most important festivals in the Chinese calender. The Dragon Boat festival offers the observer. and participants, an opportunity to glimpse into a part of the rich Chinese cultural heritage. |
In 1991, the INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT FEDERATION (IDBF) was formed in response to the explosive growth of the water sport. Based in Hong Kong, the IDBF boasts over 100 member organizations in over 30 countries. Commissions have been developed to oversee standardization of equipment, rules, World Cup, and World Championship implementation, and International Olympic Committee recognition.
Dragon Boat Racing is the fastest growing watersport in the world today.
Over 2,000,000 people world-wide participated in Dragon Boat Racing in 1996.
Canada is considered a world power by the International Dragon Boat Racing Community
Over 20,000 Canadians participated in Dragon Boat Racing in 1998.
Dragon Boat athletes are 60% men, 40% women
Teams are primarily represented by employees, large corporations, financial institutions, public and emergency service groups, and community organizations.
Dragon Boat Racing is expected to be approved as a demonstration sport by the International Olympic Committee.
Winnipeg statistics after the third year: 35,000 "+" attendees; 1500 athletes.
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