Asia Fest
Race a dragon boat at Asia Fest
Forty-plus teams. Three heats each. One unforgettable day on the water. Gather your crew — no experience required — and discover what twenty novice paddlers can do when they move as one.
The heartbeat of Asia Fest
Dragon boat racing is one of the oldest traditions in Asian culture — and one of the most thrilling moments of Asia Fest. Each year, more than 40 teams line up across four lanes, paddles raised, drum pounding, for a 300-meter sprint that brings the whole festival to its feet.
You don't need to be an athlete. You don't need to have paddled before. You just need 20 people willing to learn something new and be amazed by what they can do together.
Every kind of crew is welcome
Community teams
Friends, families, neighbors and groups of all kinds — gather your people and paddle for the joy of it.
Corporate teams
The ultimate team-building day. Bring your colleagues together and race for company pride.
Club & experienced teams
Seasoned paddlers and established clubs are welcome to bring their A-game to the course.
What your team commits to
- 20 paddlers in the boat, with a minimum of 8 female paddlers, plus up to 5 alternate paddlers.
- 1 drummer (minimum age 12) to keep the crew in rhythm.
- All participants except drummers must be at least 13 years old.
- No prior experience necessary — just a willingness to learn and have fun.
- Attend a scheduled practice session to learn paddling fundamentals and racing basics before race day.
What's provided
We furnish paddles, life vests, boats, drums and a steersperson for both practice and competition days. Teams bringing their own equipment must comply with International Dragon Boat Federation standards.
Race day
Each team races 3 heats on a 300-meter straight course with 4 lanes. Division winners are recognized with awards after the races. Teams should bring their own 10'×10' tent, chairs, tables and coolers to set up their home base for the day.
Want the quick rundown? See the Race Team Fast Facts for everything at a glance.
Questions?
Reach our race team coordinators at raceteam@asianfocusnc.org.
Build your team.
Twenty paddlers, one drum, three heats. Register your crew and claim your lane at Asia Fest.