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The Classics Dragonboat Team Embarks on a Journey to Represent the United Arab Emirates

A United Arab Emirates Based Expat Team with a Passion for Paddling Dominates the Races in the Heart of Busan

Busan, - The Classics Dragonboat Team, hailing from the vibrant United Arab Emirates, was set to make waves on an international stage as they prepared to compete at the highly anticipated 11th Korea Open Busan International Dragonboat Festival, hosted on the scenic waters of the Su-yeong River in Busan.

The team, renowned for their dedication, skill, and love for the sport, had been chosen to represent the United Arab Emirates in this prestigious event, highlighting their commitment to promoting teamwork, athleticism, and cultural exchange on both a local and global scale.


About The Classics Dragonboat Team:

The Classics Dragonboat Team has a young but eventful history of dragon boating excellence, having participated in numerous competitions locally and internationally. Comprising a diverse and talented group of paddlers dedicating their free time between their 9-5 jobs and family responsibilities, the team embodies the spirit of unity, discipline, and passion for the sport. Their journey to the 11th Korea Open Busan International Dragonboat Festival represents a significant milestone in their ongoing pursuit of excellence.


The Road to Busan:

For months, The Classics Dragonboat Team has been rigorously training and fine-tuning their skills to compete at the highest level. Their dedication to preparation has not only been about physical endurance but also about fostering camaraderie and sportsmanship among the team members.


The 11th Korea Open Busan International Dragonboat Festival:

This prestigious festival attracts dragon boat teams from all corners of the globe to Busan's Su-yeong River. The event is not only a showcase of athleticism but also an opportunity for cultural exchange and friendship. With a race format broken down into 8 categories over 200m and 300m distances. The competition promised to be intense, with The Classics Dragonboat Team eager to test their mettle against the world's best.


The Outcome:

The Classics Dragonboat Team UAE was only 1 of 14 teams hailing from 12 different countries participating in the 11th Korea Open Busan International Dragonboat Festival. With a race format including 8 categories including Open DB12, Womens DB12, Mix DB12 and Mix DB22 over 200m and 300m distances. The Classics dominated garnering 8 medals, 4 Gold medals, 3 Silver medals and 1 bronze.


The Classics DBT Ladies earning a back-to-back Championship title after also taking home the Womens Championship title last year at the 8th Sarawak International Dragonboat Regatta 2022. This year the Classics DBT Ladies clenched the Gold Medal for both the 200m and 300m categories.

The Classics DBT Open Crew came in a jaw clenching 2nd place to the top placed team in the Philippines, the Philippine Army Dragon Warriors in both 200m and 300m Categories.

The Classics Mix DB22 crew also clenching 1st place in both 200m and 300m categories.

And finally, the Classics Mix DB12 crew with an impressive 3rd place in the 200m category on the first day and then clenching the 2nd place in the 300m category on the last day of the race.


Team Spokesperson Quote:

Adrian Sogelio - Coach

" Every race is a learning experience. And the outcome of this race is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all our paddlers. The early morning trainings before work, and weekend trainings before spending time with family and friends. We look forward to not only competing at our best but also forging lasting friendships with fellow dragon boaters from around the world. “

Jun De Los Santos - Coach

“We are immensely proud to represent the United Arab Emirates at the 11th Korea Open Busan International Dragonboat Festival. It's an incredible honour, and we are ready to make the UAE proud!"

Roanne Alvarez – Team manager

“When you play as a team, amazing things happen. Together, we can achieve the extraordinary!”

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