Southeast Asia Information Port (www.dnyxxg.com) – According to a report from the Tianhe District Government of Guangzhou on the 27th, during the grand maritime celebrations held on the 26th to mark the 186th anniversary of Auckland, the "City of Sails," the "Liede Dragon Boat Team" from Tianhe District participated in the competition for the first time as a complete team. They won the championship in the mixed small boat event, and also secured second place in the large boat event, third place in the women's small boat event, and third place in the men's small boat event.
The Tianhe District Government stated that the Liede Dragon Boat Team, with a team of 48 members, crossed the ocean to compete on the Vida Harbour racecourse. This is not only a milestone moment, marking the first time in over a century that Chinese dragon boats have appeared in this mainstream New Zealand 186th anniversary celebration, but also a vivid example of successfully implementing "high-level internationalization" through sports and culture. It further deepens the friendly city relationship between Guangzhou and Auckland, effectively promotes the construction of the Liede International District, and facilitates cultural exchanges between people at home and abroad.
It is understood that the Liede Dragon Boat Team's victory was no accident. Hailing from Liede Village, known as "Guangzhou's No. 1 Village," they are a renowned and formidable force in Guangzhou's dragon boat community. This well-trained team boasts a stellar track record, having participated in the Guangzhou International Dragon Boat Race since 1994 and won multiple championships. In 1997, they stunned the competition with their unique "lion dancing on the dragon boat" stunt. In June 2025, the Liede Dragon Boat Team won the village group championship at the Tianhe District Dragon Boat Invitational Tournament, demonstrating their formidable strength.
In this competition, the Liede Dragon Boat Team brought this deeply ingrained spirit of unity and fighting spirit to the international stage. Facing unfamiliar waters and strong opponents, the team members, through seamless teamwork, standardized paddling techniques, and a sprint-from-the-start strategy, ultimately triumphed in the mixed small boat event, winning first place. They also excelled in other events, earning respect and applause through their strength. (End)
