Where to Enjoy Dragon-boat Racing in BJ(2)

2007-06-18 14:07:32 [ Big Normal Small ]    　Comment

For the most part, the teams are less concerned about being the first across the finish line than having fun. And for some teams of foreign employees from Southeast Asian countries, the race is mostly about getting a day off work.

Tonghui River itself also boasts a long history. It served as the northern starting point of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, which was first built in the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC). Today, the river provides serene scenery amidst the hustle and bustle of the CBD area.

"It's good to bring traditional culture into modern times," said deputy secretary-general of the Chinese Dragon Boat Association Li Wenyong.

Dragon boats are usually brightly painted and decorated canoes, Li explained. Ranging from 40 to 100 feet long, the boats are carved with an open-maw dragon's head at the bow, colorful scales painted mid-ship and a serpentine tail rising from the stern.

Depending on the craft's length, it could be powered by up to 80 rowers who are led by a drummer and flag-handler who stand at the bow.

Before a dragon boat could be considered seaworthy, it must be ritualistically "brought to life" during a ceremony in which the dragon's eyes are painted on the hull.

Any number of crafts could compete in the event, which is won by the first team to seize the flag planted at the end of the course.

In addition to the race in Chaoyang District, another boat race is scheduled in Yanqing County. This county hosted its first annual Dragon Boat Racing Cultural Festival last year, and this year, its dragon-boat race will run from June 16 to 19 at the spacious Xiadu Park. There will be 11 teams taking part in the race, with about 22 people aboard each vessel.

"Anyone interested is welcome to participate in the boat race," said Huang Liying, a staff member of the local government, which organized the event.

According to Huang, there will also be other activities celebrating the festival, such as zongzi-making and folk art performances.

Located in the northern area of the capital, Yanqing County is a traditional summer resort destination of choice for Beijingers looking to beat the heat. It is known for cooler temperatures, beautiful countryside scenery and dozens of mountainous scenic spots.

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