Hong Kong students help run Atlanta Dragon Boat Festival

Director of Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, New York Monica Chen (right) is interviewed by the official broadcaster of the Atlanta Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival on September 12.

The Atlanta Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival saw greater involvement by Hong Kong students as it proudly marched into its 14th year.

Held on September 12 at the Lake Lanier Olympic venue, a contingent of Hong Kong students, comprising members of Hong Kong student associations and clubs of Georgia universities, including Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University and Georgia State University, was out in full force assisting in the logistics as well as fielding teams in the various races.             

“This year, we are seeing teams from sports clubs of universities from Atlanta as well as around the region. This is indicative of the festival’s draw among the younger generation,” said Director of Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, New York Monica Chen.           

This year's 14th annual Atlanta Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival attracted more than 6,000 spectators.

“Over the years, the race has grown from a handful of teams and few spectators to a major multicultural event in the metro Atlanta area. The event now consistently attracts a field of more than 50 teams and over 6,000 spectators.           

“Many of the teams are from outside of Atlanta and Georgia, representing major cities, including New York, Kentucky, South Carolina, Tennessee and Florida,” said Ms. Chen.           

Addressing the metro Atlanta audience in a live radio interview, Ms. Chen said the Dragon Boat Festival Races have grown since they were first introduced by Hong Kong into the international arena. They are now held throughout Asia, Europe and North America, with competitions taking place in major cities around the world.           

Ms. Chen noted the festival celebrates the unique culture of Hong Kong, which has thrived throughout its colorful history of East meeting West.           

A total of 53 teams competed at this year’s Atlanta festival. The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, New York is the festival benefactor for the event. The economic and trade office sponsors four annual festivals, in Atlanta, Boston, New York and Miami.