Dragon Boat Race creates festive atmosphere in Lansing

LANSING – A Chinese tradition with a Mid-Michigan twist created a fun atmosphere Sunday at Lou Adado Riverfront Park and the banks of the Grand River for ambitious competitors in the Capital City Dragon Boat Race.

Participants used 40-foot Taiwan-style Dragon Boats that required 18 paddlers, a drummer, the helm and a flag catcher, according to the event’s website. They pushed the watercrafts forward with bladed paddles that tested strength and endurance. Each team on a boat could have up to 25 members.

Along with competition, those who participated in the race, and others who watched, were able to receive free massages and learn more about Chinese culture. Proceeds from the event benefited the Women’s Center of Greater Lansing.

For more information about the Capital City Dragon Boat Race, visit capitalcitydragonboat.com.

Eric Lacy is a reporter for the Lansing State Journal. Contact him at 517-377-1206 or elacy@lsj.com. Follow him on Twitter @EricLacy.