Maihanyar Mohammad Abass (right) Photo provided to Hangzhoufeel
Experiencer
By Maihanyar Mohammad Abass
As I stood by the water’s edge, my heart pounded with a mix of nervous excitement and childlike wonder. This wasn’t just a race -- it was my baptism into living history.
As first-time captain of China Jiliang University’s dragon boat team, I dove headfirst into a storm of pounding drums, splashing paddles, and centuries of tradition roaring back to life. Every heartbeat thundered with adrenaline -- from the electric crowd to the moment our dragon-headed boat sliced the water. I came for competition, but found something greater: where ancient heritage and raw teamwork collided in a spray of glory.
The closer we got to the competition, the more my excitement grew. Though I had been on water many times before, this was different; this was about teamwork, culture, and passion. From discovering the festival’s ancient legends to savoring sticky-sweet zongzi, every moment thrilled me. The dragon boat’s sleek design, the precision of synchronized rowing, and the rush of competition -- all were thrilling new challenges that demanded perfect teamwork. When we first saw our boat, with its carved dragon head gleaming fiercely in the sun, I knew this was no ordinary race; this was magic.
The atmosphere was electrifying, with cheering crowds, vibrant flags, traditional music, and the fierce determination of every team. I felt immersed in the rich culture of China, living a dream I had only heard about before. With muscles screaming, I fought to match the drum’s beat while battling the boat’s sway, then suddenly, we clicked. Paddles struck as one, transforming struggle into glorious, fluid power.
The festival pulsed with energy, chest-thumping drumbeats, fluttering flags, and the mingling aromas of zongzi and river air enveloped me in its ancient spirit. I finally understood why this festival honoring Qu Yuan has endured; it wasn’t just about competition but about the unbreakable bonds formed when people move together as one.