On June 17, the 2nd International Talent's Dragon Boat Tour event commenced with great excitement at the Lecong Dragon Boat Club Training Base in Sanlongwan. The event was organized by the Management Committee of Sanlongwan Sci-Tech City and co-hosted by the Foshan International Talent Hub (Sanlongwan) and the Lecong Public Service Office. Over 70 Chinese and foreign high-level talents, who reside and work in Foshan, gathered at Sanlongwan Sci-Tech City to participate in a series of engaging activities. They experienced the essence of the Dragon Boat Festival, including dragon boat racing, zongzi-making, and immersing themselves in the cultural charm of Lingnan's water town.

Dragon Boat Festival is considered as one important festival in Chinese traditional culture, with dragon boat racing being one of its cherished customs. The event is expected to foster a deeper understanding of Foshan's culture among Chinese and foreign talents, deepening their affinity for Foshan and love for China.

Zheng Canru, Vice Chairman of the Foshan Municipal Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, expressed that Foshan not only has a long-standing dragon boat culture but also colorful intangible cultural heritage, such as Kung Fu, Cantonese Opera, paper cutting, and ceramics, as well as a variety of delicious cuisine. When talents come to Foshan, they could have various entertainments in addition to delicious food. He welcomed everyone to personally come and taste it. "I hope that everyone participating in today's event can fully experience Foshan's folk customs and culture, also establish new friendship. At the same time, I would like everyone to introduce Foshan to more friends, let more people know about Foshan, then work together to make it into a better and more beautiful city," he added.

The dragon boat racing, a collective endeavor that tests individuals' strength, endurance, teamwork, and strategic prowess, attracted participants and spectators alike. Talents formed teams with members of Lecong Dragon Boat Club to train and compete on the Shaliang River. The synchronized paddling, rhythmic drumbeats, and splashes of water created a captivating urban spectacle against the backdrop of Sanlongwan's vibrant summer vibe. Despite occasional rain showers, the enthusiasm for dragon boat racing remained.

Dr. Neil, Director of the Foshan International Healthcare Service Center (IHCU) at Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital and Captain of the Foshan International Volunteer Club (FIVC), expressed his joy in participating as a volunteer in this year's "Chinese and Foreign Talents Dragon Boat Tour." Dr. Neil noted that many foreigners and Foshan residents alike enjoy dragon boat racing, and this event provided an excellent opportunity for everyone to come together, try dragon boat rowing, and gain insights into Foshan's culture. He added, "In Foshan, we have a wonderful blend of Chinese and foreign traditions, and events like these help us appreciate and celebrate our diversity."

The event saw the convergence of talents from various fields, both Chinese and foreign, with representatives from renowned institutions such as Jihua Lab, Foshan Pathogenic Microorganism Research Institute, Foshan (South China) New Materials Research Institute, as well as senior executives from large German enterprises. Participants also hailed from over ten countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, the United States, Pakistan, India, and Malaysia.

"It was my first time experiencing dragon boat racing today. Although it was a bit tiring, I'm very happy. Dragon boat racing requires physical strength and teamwork. We all paddled together on the dragon boat, requiring more cooperation and coordination," said Bi Yunjie, Director of the Additive Manufacturing Research Institute at Jihua Laboratory. He expressed that the event allows high-level talents from China and abroad who work and live in Foshan to gather together and experience local customs and culture. On the other hand, it provides a great platform for everyone to exchange ideas, make friends, and enhance mutual understanding.

As the day drew to a close, participants departed with cherished memories, a deeper understanding of Foshan's cultural legacy, and a renewed sense of unity among the Chinese and foreign talent community. The 2nd International Talent's Dragon Boat Tour event left an indelible mark as a testament to Foshan's inclusive and vibrant spirit, where talents from around the world come together to celebrate tradition and embrace innovation.

Reporter | Linn

Revisor | Eddie, Christy

Photo | Foshan International Talents Hub (Sanlongwan)