At A Glance
Our annual dragon boat festival is a day filled with excitement, fun and lots of Dragon Boat racing along the River Soar. Come on give it a try - enter now!
Event AddressBoat HousePub, Barrow upon SoarLeicestershire
How Did Dragon Boat Racing Begin?
The dragon of Asia has traditionally been a symbol of water. It is said to rule the rivers and seas and dominate the clouds and rain.
Dragon Boat Racing has ancient Chinese origins and its history has been traced back more than 2000 years. Traditionally Dragon Boat racing has taken place on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month. Racing was held to avert misfortune and encourage the rains needed for prosperity - and the object of their worship was the dragon.
Dragon boat racing today
Today Dragon Boat racing involves teams of paddlers in a dragon boat with a drummer and helm, paddling frantically to beat the other teams along a course. The drums, colourful boats and shouting makes it an impressive sport both to watch and to compete in.
The Barrow upon Soar Dragon Boast festival
Our charity dragon boat festival first started in 2009, every year it has been a great success with teams entering from across the County. All profits from this event go to local charity – LWA. Living Without Abuse formally Loughborough Women’s Aid
It is a fun packed enjoyable day – enter once and you will be hooked!
Dragon Boat Racing – a Modern Race with Ancient Traditions.