MACAO, June 13 (Xinhua) -- The 2026 Macao International Dragon Boat Races got underway on Saturday at Nam Van Lake Nautical Center of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), kicking off a series of competitions and cultural activities ahead of the Dragon Boat Festival.

Saturday's program included the small dragon boat races over a 200-meter course, and the competition continues on Sunday with the standard dragon boat races over 500 meters. According to organizers, a total of 137 local teams are participating in this year's event.

The international invitation races will be held on June 19, coinciding with the Dragon Boat Festival. Teams from the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong of China, Thailand, Singapore, and the Philippines will compete for championships.

Leong Sun Iok, member of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Dragon Boat Team, told Xinhua that dragon boat racing embodies teamwork and unity, values that have motivated his team through months of preparation for this year's event.

He noted that the growing number of dragon boat events across Greater Bay Area cities has strengthened exchanges among the region's communities, helping connect cities through a shared cultural tradition while showcasing the unique customs and characteristics of each locality.

Vong Ka Hou, president of the Dragon Boat Association of Macao, China, said that the event combines international participation with strong local characteristics. Leveraging the landmark setting of Nam Van Lake and a range of activities, Vong added, the races preserve Macao's traditional dragon boat customs while showcasing the city's vibrant blend of cultures.

The event is organized by the Sports Bureau of the Macao SAR government, the Dragon Boat Association of Macao, China, and other entities. ■