The Philippine Dragon Boat Federation (PDBF) Elite team is set for another major international challenge as it returns to Hong Kong for the 50th Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races on June 27 and 28. The prestigious event is expected to attract more than 4,500 athletes from 16 countries, making it one of the largest dragon boat competitions in Asia.

The Philippine Dragon Boat Federation enters the tournament with momentum following consecutive medal-winning campaigns. The team has consistently established itself as one of the premier dragon boat programs in the world through championship performances and record-setting achievements on the international stage.

Hong Kong has been a productive venue for the Philippine Dragon Boat Federation in recent years. The national team captured gold in the International Open Competition in 2024 and followed it with a silver medal finish in the 500-meter Women’s International Championship in 2025.

Those accomplishments have strengthened expectations as the Filipino paddlers prepare to compete against some of the strongest dragon boat teams in the region and beyond.

Golden Jubilee Celebration

This year’s competition carries added significance as the Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races celebrates its 50th anniversary. Organizers have introduced special race categories to commemorate the milestone and enhance the festival atmosphere.

Among the new additions is the 50th Anniversary Fisherman Invitational Cup, which will feature traditional fishermen’s teams racing in classic wooden dragon boats. The category aims to honor the sport’s cultural roots while highlighting its enduring connection to maritime communities.

Another major attraction is the 50th Anniversary Championship, which will bring together winners from various divisions to compete for the title of Ultimate Dragon Boat Champion. The showcase event is expected to provide an exciting finale to the anniversary celebration.

The tournament remains one of the most prestigious events on the international dragon boat calendar and continues to attract elite teams from across the globe.

More Than Racing Action

Beyond the competition, visitors will have the opportunity to experience a broader range of cultural and tourism activities through the Hong Kong Tourism Board’s Hong Kong Summer Fun campaign.

Festival attendees can visit the Dragon Boat Food Lane and Beer Garden at the Avenue of Stars, where food, entertainment, and themed attractions will celebrate Hong Kong’s dragon boat heritage. Interactive installations and cultural displays are also expected to draw large crowds.

Traditional workshops featuring fishing net plaiting, blown sugar crafting, and lye rice dumpling making will give visitors a closer look at local customs. Virtual reality dragon boat experiences will also offer a modern twist on the sport.

A dedicated viewing zone along Victoria Harbour will allow spectators to follow the races while enjoying one of Hong Kong’s most iconic waterfront locations.

Travelers visiting during the summer period can also take advantage of promotional offers tied to the Hong Kong Summer Fun campaign. Various attraction discounts and transportation deals are being introduced to encourage tourism and enhance the overall visitor experience.

As the Philippine Dragon Boat Federation prepares for another international test, the team will aim to add to its impressive record while competing on one of dragon boat racing’s biggest stages.