Up North: Dragon Boat Festival celebrates resilience after two year hiatus

The Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival has brought together racers and fans since its inaugural year in 2002.

The festival however returned after a two year absence due to the Coivid-19 pandemic, which has racers and fans excited to get back to the activities.

“It’s a fantastic event and it’s been so great seeing all the boats and all the racers coming on and off, it’s just fantastic,” said event volunteer Stephanie Davich.

The 400-meter race takes place off of Barkers Island and is put on by the Rotary Club of Superior. Who since 2002 have raised over $1.3 million for charitable organizations in the Twin Ports.

“We are with you UDAC (United Day Activity Center Duluth) and we were looking at different volunteering opportunities. We saw that the Dragon Boat Festival was happening and we thought what an incredible thing to be a part of,” added Davich.

One of the teams that hit the lake was the Dragons of Hope. A team comprised of breast cancer survivors.

“For me, it’s a really different experience because I did a dragon boat here many times on different teams and this year I became a member of the Dragons of Hope. I’m a breast cancer survivor now, so for me it’s coming back with a whole new experience and a new motivation,” claimed rower Mary-Jaen Cormier.

In case you missed out on any of the action, the event will be held at the same time again next year. All are encourages to join in on the festivities and even the race itself.

“It’s a full body exercise. I would encourage anyone to give it a try if you ever get the chance, because it’s just fabulous,” added Cormier.

“Lots of camaraderie, lots of support for all the teams and a lot of people that recognize each other from previous years. Also great entertainment, the organization here is wonderful and the volunteers are exceptional at this event,” concluded rower Cathy Gall.