Hundreds of enthusiasts gathered on the frozen surface of Yinchuan’s Yuehai Bay for an exhilarating dragon boat race on ice. The event, held on Sunday in northwest China’s Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, attracted over 700 participants from across the country, transforming the traditional water sport into a thrilling winter spectacle.
Clad in colorful gear, teams braved the chilly winds and navigated their dragon boats across the ice using metal paddles specially designed to pierce the surface. With each coordinated thrust, the boats glided forward, creating a mesmerizing display of strength, teamwork, and innovation.
“I’ve participated in many dragon boat races before, but competing on ice is a completely different experience,” said Li Ming, a participant from Beijing. “The feeling of the paddle hitting the ice and the boat sliding forward is absolutely unique.”
The ice dragon boat race has become an increasingly popular winter activity in China, blending traditional culture with the excitement of winter sports. It not only promotes physical fitness but also enhances community spirit among participants and spectators alike.
Local organizers hope that events like this will boost winter tourism in Ningxia, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. “We are thrilled to see so many people coming together to celebrate this unique sport,” said Wang Wei, an official from the Ningxia sports bureau. “It demonstrates the vitality and diversity of our winter activities.”
As the sun set over the icy landscape, the cheers of the crowd echoed across the frozen bay, marking the end of a successful event that combined tradition, innovation, and communal joy.
Reference(s):
Dragon boat race on ice in Ningxia attracts over 700 participants
cgtn.com
