Amazing to watch the night races on the Haihe River. 2019. [Photo by Bruce Connolly/chinadaily.com.cn]

On Saturday morning the sun shone and skies were blue as teams and spectators headed towards the river competition areas. It felt much more relaxing although the challenge was a 500- meter dash compared to the previous 200 meters. It was great fun, thankfully with such excellent weather for the finale and prize presentation.

Although the Dragon Boat Race was a competitive event it took place under very harmonious conditions with all teams respecting the results of each heat. This could be seen at the final ceremony where the winners from both the Philippines and Tianjin received equal rapturous and justifiably loud applause.