Twenty Dragon Boats were launched in the Glenmore Reservoir Saturday morning for a special regatta.
The races have been happening since 1992, but last year they were cancelled after the city pulled the organizer's license due to several safety concerns, including not keeping a route clear for EMS crews.
In May, a new group formed to take over organizing the event. The Calgary Dragon Boat Society is working with the city to make sure the event continues to take place every year.
"Dragon boat racing has had a long and colourful history in Calgary and we are delighted to see its return," said Ward 11 Alderman Brian Pincott. "It's significant that we could revive the sport this year as we celebrate Calgary's Chinatown Centennial."
The festivities got underway at 7:30 a.m. with a traditional Chinese Dotting of the Eye of the Dragon ceremony to bless the participants and wish them safety and good luck.
The first race took place at 8 a.m. and they'll continue until 4:30 p.m. At 5 p.m. an awards ceremony will take place.
Danny Ng, Co-Chair of the Calgary Dragon Boat Society, says he's thrilled with the turnout.
"Everything is going very well. The paddlers are all telling me they're very happy with the event," said Ng.
Ng says dragon boat racing is a great sport that allow people to have fun while working as a team.
There are 20 teams made up of 20 people competing in 26 races.
One of the teams is the Sistership Dragon Boat Association. Sistership Calgary is made up of women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Their goal is to raise awareness of breast cancer while promoting healthy living after getting a diagnosis.
Ng says next year's event will be a two-day festival.
For more information on the dragon boat races, click here.
