Seven Filipinos based in the UAE are proudly representing their adopted home at the 17th IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Championships, currently being held in Brandenburg, Germany from July 14 to 20, 2025. The competition, taking place at the renowned Regatta Venue Beetzsee, is the largest in the championship’s history, bringing together over 4,950 athletes and supporters from 33 countries.
Among the members of the UAE Dragon Boat Team are Fernan Dungan, a swimming instructor; John Carlo Asenci and Mark Anthony Garcia, both fitness trainers; Rolly Otaza, a lifeguard; Ralph Recto, a veterinary nurse; Charmaine Esteban, a fashion buyer; and Mark Mendoza, a project finance controller who also serves as the team manager.
These seven Filipinos are competing in the Open Small Boat Premier and Small Boat Senior A categories, paddling in the 200-meter, 500-meter, and 2000-meter race events. Representing the UAE on a global stage, they are up against elite athletes from powerhouse teams including China, Germany, and Canada.
Each of them juggled demanding professional roles while undergoing intense training in the UAE ahead of the world championships.
The races will continue until July 20 and are being streamed live worldwide, giving fans from the UAE and the Philippines a chance to support their homegrown athletes from afar.
