Dragon Boat races return to Montgomery’s Riverfront
The Montgomery Dragon Boat Festival made a triumphant return to Montgomery’s Riverfront for the first time since 2018. Saturday was the tenth time the Dragon Boats have raced in the Capitol City. More than a dozen teams made up of paddlers from local businesses and organizations competed throughout the morning to have the fastest time.
The championship races began at 1:30 and continued into the afternoon. The event was free and open to the public, and spectators were able to shop at booths filled with artwork and eat at several food trucks as well. Adam Warnke is the co-owner of Lightning Line, and he said, “I think that’s the allure, it’s just something different people like being on the water. The weather is amazing and it’s competition – everybody likes competition! You throw it on top of the River, and it’s fun!”
J.R. Griffin came to watch the races, and he said, “It’s good! It’s good to see a lot of people get together and come out and enjoy the sun. I just wish I could get out there and do it myself!” Sharry Bingham says, “We’ve had a few years when we’ve not had much going on because of Covid and everything, but this is great to see everybody coming out here supporting and enjoying the beautiful weather, and getting outside and just enjoying other people and the different small businesses that are supported out here. We love to support our small businesses in this area!”
All proceeds raised benefit River Region Trails, Inc. and their efforts to develop parks and greenways in our area. They are working to extend the Riverfront Greenway in 2024 which will open up more opportunities to get out on the water. For more information visit https://www.montgomerydragonboats.com/
