Hsinchu County Dragon Boat Race to be Held on the 19th, Creating a Dragon Boat Festival Carnival

Central News Agency reporter Guo Xuan-wen, Hsinchu County, June 1. The Hsinchu County Government stated that the "2026 County Magistrate Cup Dragon Boat Race" will be held on the 19th at Chihe Lake in front of Chihe Temple in Xinfeng Township. Hsinchu County Magistrate Yang Wen-ke stated today at the prayer and launching ceremony that the competition will be expanded to connect with nearby areas, creating a Dragon Boat Festival cultural carnival. Yang said that a total of 54 teams will compete, including 6 institutional groups, 22 open groups, and 26 mixed groups, demonstrating support from all sectors for the inheritance of folk culture and healthy sports. The competition rewards have also been significantly upgraded; in addition to generous prize money based on ranking, teams that successfully complete the race will receive NT$2,000 to encourage participation from private teams. Tsai Shu-chen, Director of the Education Department of Hsinchu County, told Central News Agency that the event will feature the "2026 Hsinchu County Dragon Boat Summer Fun" Dragon Boat Festival challenge, as well as high-altitude dragon boat-shaped drone racing and immersive VR water activity experiences, allowing the public to learn about Dragon Boat Festival customs and experience technology through interaction. She said that on the day of the competition, there will be an exhibition and sale of high-quality agricultural products from 13 townships and cities, allowing the public to purchase local produce while watching the race. (Editor: Li Ming-zong) 1150601