Keelung Dragon Boat Race Registration Open Until May 20 with Top Prize of NT$50,000

The 'Keelung City Dragon Boat Race Carnival' will take place at Badouzi Fishing Port on June 19 for the Dragon Boat Festival, with registration open until May 20. The champion team can win a prize of up to NT$50,000. The Keelung City Government invites the public and various organizations to form teams and participate. Last year's race was held in Keelung Harbor, but the city's Department of Education announced today that this year's event has been moved back to Badouzi Fishing Port due to scheduling conflicts with ships in Keelung Harbor. The competition categories include Open Men's (up to 18 teams), Open Women's (up to 16 teams), and School/Agency Group (up to 16 teams). According to the plan, each participating team will receive a subsidy of NT$10,000. The number of winning places and the prize money will depend on the number of participating teams. If there are 11 or more teams, the top 6 will be awarded, with the champion receiving NT$50,000. The city government welcomes citizens and organizations to participate and experience the excitement of dragon boat racing. Hsu Yen-li, Director of the Department of Education, stated that the Dragon Boat Race is one of Keelung's major traditional festive events, embodying deep cultural significance and showcasing the unique maritime character and sporting vitality of the harbor city. To continue the traditional folk culture, a 'Dragon Boat Eye-Dotting, Consecration, and Launching Ceremony' will be held on June 10 before the race. Hsu Yen-li said that through rituals of river worship, dragon boat eye-dotting, and launching, they pray for the event's smooth execution and demonstrate respect for traditional culture and maritime beliefs. The public is welcome to watch the race at Badouzi Fishing Port on June 19 to cheer for the contestants and enjoy the festive atmosphere of the Dragon Boat Festival.