As Li Qiu arrives, the Chinese mainland ushers in cooler breezes and the anticipation of the 15th National Games. Among its mass-participation events, dragon boat racing stands out, where synchronized paddles and booming drums transform waterways into stages of unity and skill.
Li Qiu, the Beginning of Autumn, marks that moment when summer’s last warmth meets autumn’s first cool breath. It’s a fitting backdrop for a sport born centuries ago along China’s great rivers, uniting physical intensity with cultural depth.
Paddlers from every province and region will chase the age-old maxim 'many hearts, one journey'—each stroke a beat in a collective heartbeat. Beyond the race, the event invites young global citizens to explore live data feeds on stroke rates, entrepreneurs to spot community-driven tourism opportunities, and changemakers to champion sustainable boat designs.
When the drums roar and boats surge forward, dragon boat racing proves that tradition and teamwork can paddle side by side, inspiring spectators and athletes to chart new courses together.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
