A Filipino-led crew based in the UAE delivered one of the standout performances at the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Challenge 2026, finishing the weekend with two podium results against an international field at Jewel of the Creek.
Titans Dubai Dragonboat Team secured first place in the Premier Mixed Category and followed it with a second-place finish in the Premier Open Category during the two-day regatta held on January 24–25. The event was staged by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Dubai in partnership with Siren Dragonboat.
The mixed-race gold carried added weight for the team. Under the guidance of coach Bhot Dote, the crew competed with only eight pairs of paddlers rather than the standard ten, a numerical disadvantage that placed greater strain on synchronization and power output throughout the race.
Team members attributed the result to disciplined execution and collective focus rather than individual strength, as they maintained race pace and timing despite the reduced lineup.
The competition also highlighted the growing role of Filipino paddlers in sustaining and expanding dragon boat racing in the UAE, where the sport continues to gain visibility through community-driven teams and regular participation in international regattas.
Support from the Philippine Consulate was visible during the event, with Philippine Consul General in Dubai and the Northern Emirates Ambrosio Brian F. Enciso III present to encourage the team as they competed under the Philippine flag.
Organizers confirmed that the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Challenge 2026 drew teams from multiple countries, reinforcing its position as one of the region’s major dragon boat events held outside Hong Kong.
