The Sheraton Hotel sponsored the Dragon Boat Races. There was a rumor going around that they wouldn't be held this year out of respect for the earthquake victims in Sichuan Province. Then, a couple of days ago, notice of the boat races on Muchu Lake appeared in the Nanjing papers.The races commemorate the life of Qu Yuan, a poet and patriot who lived lived 340-278 BC. He is supposed to have become despondent when his ideas were not accepted, and, according to legend, drowned himself. Dragon boat races were instituted to distract evil spirits from harming his body, and the custom begun of throwing zongzi, leaf wrapped rice balls into lakes so that fish would be discouraged from eating his remains.
International crews participated in the rowing competition on the galley style dragon boats. It was hard to get a good picture on this overcast day, so I supply one I found on the web. I also include a picture of zongzi. My friend Ruo Yi found a restaurant where we could enjoy this delicious seasonal treat.
a Canadian competitor
1 comment:
Sounds like you are having a great experience. Enjoy the journey and thanks for allowing us to enjoy it with you!
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