Peoria Dragon Boat Race

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Sunday, September 13, 2026

The Peoria Chinese Association hosted their 2nd annual Dragon Boat Festival on Sunday, September 13th at the Peoria Riverfront. This was a very different race for the Flying Ears, because it was using small boats - which only hold TEN paddlers (vs the normal 20). There was definitely a bit of a learning curve, but we all thought it was a great experience. Plus, the entire feel of the event was just so much fun - lots of family activities, a really cool military helicopter, dancing, and just non-stop positive energy!

Due to adding the race to our schedule last minute, our coach jumped in as a paddler and Shane was our steer. We are all familiar with Shane as our steer, he often joins us on the water at Lake Shabbona for practice when we use two boats (and he fills in when Craig is unable to make it), but this was his first time steering at a race. He did an amazing job and the Flying Ears took home silver!

We sincerely hope we can make it out to the event again in 2027! You can see some great shots of the event on the Peoria Chinese Association's Facebook page! Plus, there is a great video of one of our races, too. https://www.facebook.com/reel/959878283842302