Take up the paddles, dragon boat race in RAK on May 11
dubai — The Philippine Consulate in Dubai and the Northern Emirates is calling on seasoned and amateur paddlers to compete in the 2nd ConGen’s Cup Dragon Boat Regatta taking place on May 11 at RAK International Marine Sports Club in Ras Al Khaimah.
The 250-metre dragon boat race, aimed at boosting camaraderie in the expat community, is open to all members of Filipino Community (FilCom) organisations in the FilCom category and to all nationalities in the Premiere category. Twelve teams are expected to participate in each category, according to the consulate.
“Dragon boat racing requires paddlers to work in unison to propel the boat and reach the finish line. This is the same spirit that we want to inculcate in our kababayans (compatriots) with this competition,” consul-general Paul Raymund Cortes said.
The regatta is organised by the Philippine Consulate in cooperation with the League of Filipino Gentlemen Dubai and Style MNL Athletics in collaboration with RAK International Marine Sports Club under the Office of the Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, Cortes added.
Christian Sarte, owner of Style MNL, told Khaleej Times: “Dragon boat racing is a thrilling water sport, where paddlers — both experienced and newbies — learn sportsmanship, strategy and technique.”
“Our aim is to develop positive team spirit, become healthy and make friends while having fun,” he added.
The race is divided into two categories: Premiere category and FilCom. The premiere category is divided into three classes: Mixed (male and female) for a standard boat composed of 22 crew; Open class (small boat; 12 crew) and Women’s (small boat; 12 crew) while the FilCom category only has Open class (mixed; standard boat, 14-16 crew). All races will run a distance of 250 metres in open waters.
Sarte said even those without prior experience in dragon boat racing can join the regatta. “They just need to attend a free paddling clinic on March 30 to learn the basic maneuvers — how to paddle and move forward — and know the various components of dragon boat stroke cycle,” he added.
“Everyone is also invited to watch the race on May 11, from 8am5pm, as there will be other activities and lots of fun and entertainment for everyone,” Sarte added.
Interested participants may contact Sarte on social media (www. facebook.com/uae.dbconnect) or call him on 0559198520.