The intricate river networks and waterways of Diejiao Community, located in Guicheng Subdistrict of Nanhai District, Foshan City, have given rise to a unique and thrilling twist on a traditional sport: dragon boat drifting.
Held annually during the Dragon Boat Festival, this high-energy event has evolved into a beloved local tradition. As the Festival approaches, Diejiao's exhilarating dragon boat drifting is drawing growing numbers of spectators and enthusiasts eager to witness the action.
Michael participates in the dragon boat training with his teammates in Chenfeng Village, Diejiao, Foshan. (Photo: Chen Meng)
Michael participates in the dragon boat training with his teammates in Chenfeng Village, Diejiao, Foshan. (Photo: Chen Meng)
Michael, a German national and German language teacher based in Shunde District, has been dedicating his evenings to dragon boat training in Chenfeng Village, Diejiao, for over a month leading up to late April. Driven by passion and determination, he hopes to earn a place in the starting lineup of the Chenfeng Dragon Boat Team—potentially becoming the team's first-ever foreign paddler.
Michael first visited the Chenfeng Village dragon boat base before the Chinese New Year, accompanied by his girlfriend, Ah Mie (a pseudonym), and two foreign friends. Intrigued by promotional posters they had seen, the group reached out to Liu Yezhang—the manager of the Chenfeng dragon boat base and a team paddler—hoping to tour the facility and get a firsthand taste of dragon boat paddling.
Michael and his friends first visit Chenfeng Village before the Chinese New Year. (Photo: Chenfeng Village)
Michael and his friends first visit Chenfeng Village before the Chinese New Year. (Photo: Chenfeng Village)
On January 29, the first day of the Chinese New Year, their wish came true. Before leaving, Michael shared his ambition to join the team's evening training sessions and become a member of the Chenfeng Dragon Boat Team.
"At first, I thought he was joking," Liu Yezhang recalled. But after extending the invitation, Michael kept his word and showed up on March 17 for the team's first training session after the Chinese New Year. Night after night, the determined German paddler has gripped his oar with unwavering focus, diligently mastering the fundamentals—starting, braking, and turning. "He's more committed than many local beginners," Liu remarked.
This determination is fueled in part by the team's rigorous selection process, where only the most skilled athletes secure a place in the starting lineup. Currently, the Chenfeng Dragon Boat Team's roster includes nearly 40 members: one drummer, four to six helmsmen who steer the boat, and 28 to 32 paddlers.
Reporter: Chen Meng
Video: Xiao Lin
Editor: Liu Lingzhi, James, Shen He
