With great anticipation and intensity, the fourth Shenchong Cup Dragon Boat Race was held on May 24 on the Shenchong River in Tianhe district, Guangzhou.

A total of 10 teams competed in the race, which showcased the traditional 350-meter straight-track sprint for dragon boats. Teams had to touch a marker at the turning point before making the return trip, traveling a total distance of 700 meters.

Team members cheer and shout encouragements before the race. [Photo by Shi Yonghe/Guangzhou Daily]

The race begins as competitors paddle vigorously, splashing water around. [Photo by Shi Yonghe/Guangzhou Daily]

The Shenchong Cup Dragon Boat Race was launched in 2019 and is a unique folk event jointly organized by villages in the Shenchong River basin. The event not only showcases traditional dragon boat techniques but also features elements of Cantonese folk traditions such as roast pig banquets and dragon boat rice.

After the race, competitors celebrate by splashing water on each other. [Photo by Shi Yonghe/Guangzhou Daily]