On Saturday, May 4, dragons and water warriors alike will make waves at the TVA Recreational Area of the Chickamauga Dam for the 13th Annual Children’s Hospital at Erlanger Dragon Boat Festival. This boating event encourages team building, friendly competition and fundraising for Children’s Hospital at Erlanger.
Races begin at 8 a.m. on the water, while activities are provided on land, including a children’s play area and competitions for awards such as “Best Theme,” “Top Fundraiser” and “Best Drummer Costume.” A Parade of Drummers takes place at noon and will be led by the 2019 Dragon Boat Grand Marshall and Children’s Miracle Network Miracle Child, Adalyn.
Proceeds from the event will help fund a Pediatric MRI and Procedure Center at the new Kennedy Outpatient Center.
This state-of-the-art center will allow kids and teens to experience MRI scans and minor procedures in a space uniquely designed for them.
"Dating back more than 2,300 years, Dragon Boat racing features teams of 20 paddlers, a drummer and a coxswain in 46-foot long Chinese dragon boats, racing through the water to the finish line. Paddlers ages 15 and older at any skill and fitness level can participate, making it the ultimate team building sport," officials said.
Corporate and community teams are encouraged to register their boat and a fundraising page by going to
http://paddleforchildrenshospital.org. Boating registration is $1,000 for regular team entry. The team fundraising entry is $100 for teams who are going the extra mile to raise $3,000. Individual paddlers are welcome to register to join a crew and the fun too. There is still room for additional volunteers as well.
Spectators are welcome, and there is no charge for attending the event. Food concessions are available onsite, with proceeds benefiting Children’s Hospital at Erlanger.
Sponsors include First Tennessee Bank, EPB, CTFP, Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union and Coca-Cola Bottling Company United.
To learn more about the festival or for information on how to volunteer, call 423-778-4803, e-mail RebeccaStyles@Erlanger.org or visit
www.paddleforchildrenshospital.org.