Get ready, or rather “paddles up;” it’s time to “take it away” once again at Point Mallard Aquatic Center! The 10th Annual Decatur Morgan Hospital Foundation Dragon Boat Race and Festival 2021 will hit the water with heart-pumping action Saturday, September 11th, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.!
Dragon Boat Festival
This annual fundraising event doesn’t take brawn. It takes spirit, rhythm, and finesse! It is an all-inclusive sport for all skill levels.
Dragon boat racing is fast-paced and fun as the drummer actively beats the drum during the race. Stay on beat with your team’s drummer setting the pace. Race heats are about 250 meters, or roughly two football fields. Three boats race at a time, and each team races twice before the final round.
Medals and awards are presented. Besides the usual, gold, silver and bronze awards are presented for “Best Dressed Drummer,” “Best Team Name,” “Top Fundraising Team” and “Team Spirit.”
Teams set up tents and deck them out in a signature style. Bring water, food and a positive attitude!
Get a Team
Teams for the Dragon Boat Race and Festival 2021 consist of 20 paddlers and one drummer. Plus, each dragon boat will have a trained dragon boat steerer/coach. There are also a few other rules to note when it comes to gathering your team.
First, each boater must be at least 15 years old. Second, each team needs a minimum of eight female paddlers. Third, each team gets a practice session on the water between September 5th-10th.
Final note: dragon boats, equipment, life jackets and coaches are provided.
Row, Row, Row Your Boat
Interested in rowing your way to a win for a good cause? It’s not too late to jump on board! The registration deadline is Friday, September 3rd. To register your team, click here.
A huge part of the Dragon Boat Race and Festival 2021 is each individual’s commitment to securing donations that go directly to the Decatur Morgan Hospital. The hospital serves more than 75,000 patients a year on average.
The funds support the local hospital in its mission to serve any who need care regardless of their ability to pay. Each team is encouraged to set a team goal of $2,500.
But don’t worry! Even the fundraising part has been made simple and fun.
Once a team registers, they can create a fundraising page. From there, the FirstGiving platform guides you through the page setup and helps you connect with family and friends. Click here if you are registered and ready to create a fundraising page.
Summary
It is nice to know that after a long day of festive fun on the water for a good cause, you will sleep like a baby. Not sure where you will be living in September? Glide by Summer Courtyard Apartments to see if we’re right for you.
For more cool community events, local spotlights and news, keep reading our blogs!
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