Dragon boat racing originated in China more than 2,300 years ago as a way to honor a patriot and poet named Qu Yuan. Now, people gather to participate and enjoy a dragon boat race each September in downtown Nashville.
Several local companies participated in this year’s event, which took place earlier this month. The top three spots went to Orangetheory Fitness in first, followed by Cornerstone Team and Fulin Dynasty in third.
For Fulin’s, participating and placing third has special significance.
“Our Fulin’s Dynasty team have participated in the Dragon Boat Festival for 8 years in a row since 2010. We usually just try to have fun and make it as a casual company event. Every year we would finish as the last team due to the lack of rowers, lack of practice, commitment, etc. Until this year we decided ‘enough is enough,’ so we got serious and ended up placing third. As you can tell, it is a huge jump from being last every year and we are extremely proud of it. But more importantly, I want to tell everyone that dragon boating is just a great team sport. with the right teamwork, the right mentality, ANYTHING is possible. This year really taught us that. and that’s what matters the most for our company, not the prizes or recognition. It’s just a great mentality to embrace into our workplace and daily lives.”
Winning from Brandon Lin on Vimeo.
Fulin’s was awarded a bronze plated wooden paddle.
Origins of dragon boat racing
Qu Yuan was once a counselor to the King, but during a time in China’s history full of treachery and corruption, Qu Yuan was banished. When his kingdom fell into the hands of a rival kingdom, Qu Yuan threw himself into the Mei Lo River.
People raced to the middle of the river in their fishing boats in a vain attempt to save him. They beat on drums and splashed their oars in the water, trying to keep the fish from his body and ward off evil spirits. To honor his soul and ensure it didn’t go hungry, they scattered rice into the water.
Today, dragon boat races are primarily a form of amusement and fun, while also highlighting the history and culture of this colorful event. Every year, people come together to pay tribute to this fallen statesman by paddling to the beat of their own drum.
