The Penang International Dragon Boat Regatta 2025 delivered a standout highlight — the adrenaline-charged Dragon Boat Tug-of-War, a hybrid sport that fuses two ancient power traditions: dragon boat racing and classic tug-of-war.
Dragon boating traces its roots to ritual ceremonies honouring Qu Yuan, the legendary poet of the Warring States period. Tug-of-war dates back to the Chu State in the Spring and Autumn era, where the military drill “Gou Qiang” was used to build raw strength. Today, these two heritage sports collide to create a modern test of power, precision, and grit.
Introduced in 2023, the dragon boat tug-of-war category has quickly become a crowd favourite. Paddlers love the challenge, spectators love the intensity, and the event has only grown in excitement since its debut.
On race day, the energy is electric — oars pounding in sync, water erupting with every pull, teams locked in a fierce battle of strength and strategy. The roar of the crowd fuels the athletes, turning each match-up into a thrilling spectacle.
Among this year’s standout competitors is a team from Hong Kong featuring several cancer survivors and differently-abled athletes. They paddle with purpose, dedicating a potential victory to the victims of the recent multi-tower fire back home.
The Regatta’s official opening ceremony will take place tomorrow, Saturday, 29 November at 11am, led by the State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy, YB Wong Hon Wai.
There will be races for 250 meter and 400 meter races too.
Some of the Hong Kong participants