KINGSTON, Jamaica — A thrilling new sport is paddling its way into Jamaica’s athletic landscape: Dragon Boat Racing.
In a historic collaboration between the Chinese Benevolent Association (CBA) and the Jamaica Dragon Boat Federation (JDBF), the island is now the newest participant in this centuries-old team sport.
The announcement was made during a lively launch ceremony held on Tuesday at the CBA headquarters on Old Hope Road. The excitement will culminate this weekend, May 31 and June 1, with the Inaugural Jamaica Dragon Boat Festival, hosted at the Grand Hotel Excelsior Port Royal — formerly Morgan’s Harbour Hotel — starting at 10:00 a.m. daily.
Synchrony, spirit, and strength: Inside Dragon Boat Racing
Dragon boat racing is far more than a water sport — it is a synchronized spectacle steeped in tradition. Originating from ancient Chinese villages, the sport requires a crew to paddle in perfect unison to the beat of a drum, guided by discipline, endurance, and teamwork.
Already embraced in over 75 countries worldwide, including Caribbean neighbors Trinidad & Tobago and The Bahamas, the sport’s arrival in Jamaica signals a new chapter in the nation’s expanding athletic identity.
CBA President Vincent Chang lauded the determination of the planning team and expressed deep appreciation for the support of the Chinese Embassy, whose collaboration helped bring the long-anticipated event to fruition.
“We want to see this event grow and become a mainstay on the local calendar,” Chang said, expressing hope that this inaugural event will spark a lasting sporting tradition in Jamaica.
Festival organizing chairman Dalton Yap promised an action-packed weekend, full of culture and competition.
“Excitement, man. Excitement, competition, people paddling and trying to get the medals that you see on the table — gold, silver, and bronze,” Yap beamed. “You’ll experience the Chinese culture and, obviously, the excitement of racing on the water in Port Royal.”
Strong institutional support lends momentum
The event has drawn endorsements from several major entities, including the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Jamaica Vacations, the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), the Chinese Embassy, and the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) — all of which were represented at the launch.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister, Allan Beckford declared the Ministry’s full support for the sport’s local introduction.
“The ministry is in support of Dragon Boat Racing,” he stated. “We support all organized sports in Jamaica and hope to see this sport become successful.”
JDF goes all in — with team, safety, and spirit
Representing the JDF, Chief of Defence Staff, Vice Admiral Antoinette Wemyss Gorman, revealed that the military would be deeply involved — both as competitors and safety providers for the weekend event.
“The JDF is participating not only with a team, but also in providing safety, as this takes place on the Kingston Harbor,” said Wemyss Gorman. “We’re very happy this is a new sport. JDF is always at the forefront of sport in Jamaica… and we’re known for our teamwork, so we hope to do very well.”
Dr. Carey Wallace, Executive Director of the Tourism Enhancement Fund, emphasized the long-term tourism potential of this new sporting endeavor.
“I call it a seed because the potential for this to grow… to transform tourism through these kinds of sports is massive,” Wallace said. “We have a vision of presenting Jamaica to the world as the number one destination on the planet. Best place to visit. That’s our target.”
Eleven teams ready to battle for glory
A total of 11 locally based teams have registered for this weekend’s races, including squads from the JDF Coast Guard and the UWI Confucius Institute. All teams have been training intensely in preparation for this landmark event.
Saturday will kick off with a traditional dotting of the eye ceremony, an ancient Chinese ritual that awakens the spirit of the dragon. The festival then launches into 200-meter heats, with three boats per race. Sunday’s schedule will depend on team performances, leading up to the grand awards ceremony in the evening.
Festivalgoers can expect an immersive cultural experience, including Chinese cuisine, music, and traditional attire, offering a full celebration of heritage alongside the high-octane action on the water.
