A thrilling dragon boat race is held on the river at Chuanliao village. [Photo/Tide News]

The 2023 Qingtian Chinese Overseas Chinese Dragon Boat Invitational was held on June 19 on the river at Chuanliao village in Qingtian county – located in Lishui city, in East China Zhejiang province – attracting 18 teams from home and abroad.

The competition used standard 12-person dragon boats and featured both local and overseas Chinese teams. The competition had two events – the 200-meter straight sprint and the 500-meter straight sprint.

The event aims to promote the traditional culture of dragon boat racing, as well as to enhance friendship and exchanges between overseas Chinese and local people, according to the organizers.