The Philippine Dragon Boat Federation (PDBF) is back on the international stage, gearing up for a fierce showdown at the 2025 Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races, one of Asiaโs biggest and most festive paddling events. With over 190 teams and 4,500 athletes from around the world expected to compete, the Pinoy paddlers are ready to battle for glory and represent the Philippines with pride.
The races, scheduled for June 7-8 at Victoria Harbour, are the highlight of a week-long cultural celebration under the Hong Kong Cultural Beat campaign. The event will turn the Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade into a high-energy, day-and-night carnival featuring everything from a Dragon Boat Food Lane, themed photo zones, Cirque du Soleil street performances, to a Beer Garden and live race broadcasts.
Stronger Than Ever: PDBF Eyes the Podium
Returning to Hong Kong after a podium finish last yearโ second runner-up in the Women’s Grand Championship โ the PDBF is more determined than ever to claim victory.
โItโs a fact weโve struggled against stronger teams in the past, but our womenโs team has shown tremendous resilience,โ said Marcia Cristobal of the Philippine Dragon Boat Federation. โComing straight from the Macau competition, weโve had a challenging training schedule, but weโre focused. Weโre here to give our best and bring honor to the country.โ
A Global Showdown on Water
This yearโs races promise to be the most competitive yet, with elite teams from **12 countries and regions including Japan, Thailand, UAE, Canada, and first-time participants Egypt and Qatar, all converging in Hong Kong for a thrilling weekend of sport and cultural celebration.
More Than Just a Race
The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is going all out to make this yearโs event a true spectacle. Starting May 31, the Dragon Boat Festival Day kicks off nine days of festivities including:
- Dragon Boat Food Lane at the Avenue of Stars
- Ocean Parkโs Panda Friends photo zones
- Cirque du Soleil pop-up acrobatic shows
- Beer Garden by San Miguel in Urban Council Centenary Garden
- Live broadcasts of race finals via RTHK TV 32 and online platforms
- Dining & shopping promos at over 20 establishments in the area
โThis year, weโve elevated the dragon boat experience into a cultural celebration that blends East and West,โ said HKTB Executive Director Dane Cheng. โItโs a must-see event for locals and tourists alike, and a perfect opportunity to showcase Hong Kongโs vibrant spirit.โ
Ready to Roar
With grit, passion, and national pride, the Philippine Dragon Boat Federation is set to paddle head-to-head with the best of the best. As they return to the waters of Victoria Harbour, all eyes will be on Team Philippines as they chase victoryโone synchronized stroke at a time.
Catch the races live or follow updates on the official Hong Kong Cultural Beat page.
