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Dragon Boat Festival crowds fill Macao waterfront as int'l races conclude

Xinhua
| June 19, 2026
2026-06-19

MACAO, June 19 (Xinhua) -- The 2026 Macao International Dragon Boat Races concluded on Friday, coinciding with the Dragon Boat Festival, with China's Nanhai Jiujiang team claiming titles in both the open and women's categories of the International Invitation Standard Dragon Boat Race (500m).

At the Nam Van Lake Nautical Center, spectator stands were packed throughout the event, with queues forming at some seating areas and large crowds gathering outside the venue, creating a lively festive atmosphere.

The Thailand National Team finished runner-up in both events. Hengqin Jiangke Dragon Boat Club secured third place in the open race, while the Singapore National Team took third in the women's competition.

Earlier in the day, Tianjin University of Sport won the University Student Invitation Standard Dragon Boat Race (500m), followed by Nanyang Technological University (Singapore) and the University of Macau in second and third places, respectively.

Chng Jing Hang, captain of the Nanyang Technological University Singapore team, said the team came to Macao aiming for the title after intensive training. Though they missed out on the championship this year, he praised the strength of their competitors and said the team would continue striving for better results.

He described dragon boat racing as a widely recognized sport in Singapore and noted that competing in Macao offers valuable opportunities to exchange experiences with teams from other countries and regions. For Chng, the sport has also given new meaning to the festival, turning it into a celebration of teamwork and the rewards of hard training.

Beyond the competitions, the International Dragon Boat Races Carnival ran near the racing area, featuring photo zones, booths selling dragon boat-themed crafts and cultural products, local snacks, interactive games, and performances, all helping to enhance the festive atmosphere. Enditem

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