Competition and fun highlight annual Dragon Boat event

Woodstock’s Team Sierra was ready to take on the competition. (Ron Yuzark Photo)

Ron Yuzark, Echo Correspondent

The 25th annual Pharmasave Woodstock Dragon Boat Festival took over the north shore of Pittock Conservation Area on August 9, drawing large crowds for a full day of high-energy racing and community celebration.

Hosted by the Woodstock Rotary Club, the event featured over 30 teams from across the region and beyond, competing in a series of 500-metre heats throughout the day before the top six teams faced off in an exciting 2,000-metre final. The races showcased the strength, timing, and teamwork needed to propel the 40-foot-long dragon boats, each manned by 20 paddlers, a drummer at the bow to keep the pace, and a steer person at the stern for direction.

Families took advantage of the splash pad, playground, and local food vendors, while many supported the festival by purchasing commemorative t-shirts and participating in the 50/50 draw. In keeping with its tradition of giving back, the club announced that proceeds from the festival will benefit numerous charitable initiatives. These include support for the South Gate Centre’s Angel Food program, which assists Oxford County residents facing food insecurity, and a five-year pledge of $17,000 annually toward the Centre’s new Community Kitchen.

The club also funds a Dragon Boat scholarship for young athletes who qualify for Canada’s national team. Dave Harris, a member of the Woodstock Rotary Club, reflected on the festival’s impact.

“With 20 paddlers in each boat, you need someone keeping everyone in sync. That teamwork is what makes dragon boating special, and it’s the same spirit that drives our community to support each other. We’re proud to see so many people come together for such a great cause.”