Here’s the fascinating story of a newcomer to the sport of dragon boat racing and how you can support the team.
Nestled in the heart of the Philippine Sea lies Siargao, a tear-drop-shaped island known to many as the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines.” With its pristine beaches, world-class waves, and a community of warm-hearted locals, Siargao is a paradise for surfers and adventure seekers alike.
But beyond the surf breaks and hidden lagoons, a new wave of excitement sweeping across this island—a wave that carries the dreams and aspirations of the Siargao Dragons, a passionate dragon boat team with their sights set on international glory.
The Birth of the Siargao Dragons: Founded a little more than a year ago–and just three weeks before their first international competition–the Siargao Dragons emerged from a shared love for paddling and a desire to bring something new to their beloved island.
The team comprises 50 dedicated members—30 men and 20 women—including local business owners, a crossfit coach, and even a local celebrity. Despite their diverse backgrounds, they share one common goal: to put Siargao on the global map through the thrilling sport of dragon boat racing.
Early Triumphs and Challenges: The Siargao Dragons defied the odds in their debut competition, clinching third place in the Small Boat Open and Standard Boat Mixed categories and securing fifth place out of 28 teams. Their achievements were remarkable, especially considering the limited time they had to prepare and the lack of advanced equipment. But these victories did not come easy. The team faced numerous challenges, from the intense training sessions under the scorching sun to the logistical hurdles of preparing for a significant competition with minimal resources. Yet, their determination never wavered. The Siargao Dragons continued to push forward, fueled by their love for the sport and their unwavering belief in the power of teamwork.
A Tiny Island with Big Dreams: Siargao may be small, but its dreams are anything but. Known for its stunning natural beauty, the island has long been a haven for surfers and eco-tourists. Beyond its famous waves, Siargao offers a rich tapestry of experiences—from exploring hidden caves and hiking through lush forests to diving into crystal-clear lagoons. For the Siargao Dragons, their journey is about more than just racing.
It’s about showcasing their island home’s resilience, talent, and spirit. They believe that competing on the international stage can bring greater recognition to Siargao, attract more tourists, and boost the local economy. It’s a vision that goes beyond medals and trophies; it’s about making a lasting impact on their community.
A Call for Support: As the Siargao Dragons prepare for their next international competition this coming October, they face a new challenge: raising the necessary funds to make their dreams a reality. The team must raise $14,000 to cover essential expenses, including event registration, flight tickets for 45 team members, six-night food and accommodation, multiple bus rides to and from the airport, hotel and venue, medical supplies, and vitamins. While the team has received support from local businesses and the tight-knit community of Siargao, it is now reaching out to a broader audience—both in the Philippines and internationally. It has launched a fundraising campaign to help cover these costs and is appealing to sports enthusiasts, dragon boat fans, and anyone who believes in the power of dreams to contribute.
Your support can make a significant difference. By donating to the Siargao Dragons, you’re not just helping a team get to competition—you’re investing in the future of a community, helping to create opportunities for young athletes, and playing a part in the story of a small island with big dreams. Now, they need your help to take the next step. You can do that by visiting their website. With your support, the Siargao Dragons can continue to pursue their dreams and bring pride to their island home.
