Wenzhou Dragon Boat Sports Center is set to host dragon boat racing and soccer competitions for the Hangzhou Asian Games next year (Sept 10-25) in Zhejiang province. CHINA DAILY

As a major center for dragon boat racing, Wenzhou city in Zhejiang province is bringing the traditional Chinese custom into the modern realm as it prepares to host the sport at next year's Asian Games.

The dragon boat competition for Hangzhou 2022 will be staged at the newly constructed Wenzhou Dragon Boat Sports Center, where six gold medals will be up for grabs.

The pleasant climate in Wenzhou, which enjoys four distinct seasons and abundant rainfall, makes it an ideal location for dragon boat racing, while the race center is conveniently located in the city's central Ouhai district with excellent rail links.

Jin Kai, secretary-general of the Wenzhou Dragon Boat Association, told China Daily that dragon boats have a special meaning for local residents.

"Every year when we hold dragon boat activities, those at home and abroad will rush home and reunite with their families," said Jin.

"Everyone in the boat works together, gradually forming the dragon boat spirit, which is the quality of daring to be first, working together to overcome difficulties, battle through adversity, and work hard."

Zhang Zhihong, director of Wenzhou Sports Bureau, echoed those sentiments, saying: "Dragon boat racing is a traditional sport and cultural tradition in Wenzhou, so it is deeply loved by Wenzhou people.