Fire-breathing dragon-boat

Before reading up on the subject, I always considered the dragon boat to be a war ship historically. I thought the Norse Karve – what with the teams of oarsmen – was a European version; warriors propelling themselves over rough seas, on route to clash boats.

It turns out I wasn't far off. The ancient Chinese raced these long boats as a way to honour the dragon, the mythical creature that controls the rain and the force of the water already on Earth. The celebrations got serious though, when sacrifices were made. If a boat tipped, the people that fell in were not helped, as it was seen to be jinxing fate. Paddlers would literally battle as well, either with stones or stalks of bamboo, any deaths occurring being seen as gifts to the Gods, ensuring prosperous crops.

I'd be surprised if the dragon deity was given any "gifts" during the 16th annual Ottawa Dragon Boat Race Festival two weekends from this one (June 19 - 21). More than 5,000 paddlers will compete and raise funds for a number of charities; more than 65,000 people are expected to come watch; and more than $300,000 are hoped to be raised. There is lots of other entertainment going on at Mooney's Bay Park during the races as well – there are five bands playing over the weekend, including Ashley MacIsaac.

Tickets are free and so is parking downtown (either Carleton University's lot 7 or at the Canada Post building at Heron Rd. and Riverside Dr.) with shuttle services to the park.

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