Controversy Over Dragon Boat Collision in Kaohsiung: Sports Development Bureau Explains 50-Meter Rerun Policy

Kaohsiung, June 21 (CNA) — A collision between two dragon boats during a race on the Love River yesterday triggered a dispute over race management. Following a lane deviation that led to a boat crashing into another, the officiating team ordered a rematch, a decision that drew criticism from the affected team, which argued for the disqualification of the offending party.

Netizens questioned the consistency of the event rules, noting that pre-race briefings had suggested disqualification for collisions. Officials at the Kaohsiung City Sports Development Bureau explained that since the collision occurred within 50 meters of the starting line, a recall and rerun were permitted under the established competition regulations.

Regarding the dispute, the Bureau clarified that in the 69th race, the chief referee determined the collision was caused by a mechanical failure—specifically a loose rudder assembly—causing the boat to veer off course. As the incident occurred within the 50-meter threshold, the call for a rerun was deemed compliant with the rules.

The Sports Development Bureau stated that referees explained the decision-making process to the teams immediately after the incident. Currently, the officiating team is reviewing video footage and documentation to address the formal complaints and ensure proper planning for subsequent race segments.