University of Liverpool Confucius Institute achieves a runner-up finish in the 2026 Northwest CI Dragon Boat Race.
On 17th May, a university dragon boat race hosted by Lancaster University Confucius Institute was held at Liverpool Queen's Dock. Bringing together five Confucius Institute teams from the Northwest, the event celebrated the traditional Chinese Dragon Boat Festival. The University of Liverpool Confucius Institute (LCI) team delivered an impressive performance and secured second place in the fierce competition, beating their third-place finish at last year's race.
Alt text: The LCI team in their dragon boat on the water in Liverpool Queens Dock.
To achieve this excellent result, LCI participants devoted their spare time to training sessions to refine paddling rhythm and team coordination. On the day of the race, guided by the rhythmic drumbeats, the team paddled in perfect unison, charging forward with great momentum. Their outstanding teamwork and perseverance fully embodied the traditional dragon boat spirit of unity and courage.
Alt text: The LCI Dragon Boat team stood together on the dock in red t-shirts, with paddles.
Combining sport competition with cultural engagement, the event featured intense yet friendly contests. After multiple rounds of rigorous races, the LCI team stood out for its stable and coordinated performance, finishing as runner-up in second place. Team members commented that the activity provided a vivid immersive experience of Chinese traditional culture, strengthened team spirit, and built close connections with teachers and students from other Confucius Institutes.
LCI also took part, with other local businesses, in the Lord Mayor's Dragon Boat Race in May, which raises money for local charities. The
The race demonstrates LCI's commitment to cultural engagement and opportunities for the local community. Join LCI after Summer for more free cultural workshops such as Language Exchange and Chinese Dance. We also have a range of courses for studying Mandarin.