A team of foreign players at the Dachen Dragon Boat Race in Yiwu. [Photo/zgyww.cn]

The Dachen Dragon Boat Race in Yiwu made a splash on June 10, with 42 teams from across the globe braving the rain to compete in this exhilarating event.

Since its debut in 2016, the race has become a beloved spectacle, attracting competitors and spectators from around the world.

Team members, young and old, paddled fiercely to the beat of drums, their oars slicing through the waves. Zhang Yi, captain of the Dongyang team, said that the event is more than a competition; it's a place to forge friendships and test one's limits.

This year's race was marked by the participation of teams that brought a global flavor to the event, including those from Yemen and Sudan, as well as a team of international students. Ma Ji from Sudan reflected on last year's victory, attributing it to other teams' errors. But this year, he was determined to win through sheer skill and teamwork.

The race also had its share of drama, with capsizes that have become a talking point among netizens. However, the presence of professional rescue teams ensured the safety of all participants.

The competition unfolded along a 300-meter course on the Dachen River, featuring 12-person boats in various categories. It was not just a test of strength and endurance but also a celebration of the sport's beauty and the community's spirit. The event proved to be a perfect blend of competitive edge and cultural festivity, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who witnessed it.