Schools’ Dragon Boat Race returns for 2022

After a two-year break during the pandemic, the University of Liverpool Confucius Institute (LCI) is excited to announce the return of the Annual Schools’ Dragon Boat Race in collaboration with Liverpool Water Sports Centre at Queen’s Dock.

Participation is free of charge for all participating schools, many of which were invited in collaboration with the

University of Liverpool’s Widening Participation team, who work with schools in communities across

Merseyside and the Liverpool City Region.

The event focus is on promoting wellbeing, especially in light of the coronavirus pandemic. In a survey by the charity Young Minds between January and February 2021 into the impact of the nationwide lockdowns due to the coronavirus pandemic, young people shared that they had experienced an increase in anxiety, loss of motivation and hope for the future, with 67% believing that the pandemic would have a longterm effect on their mental health.

By encouraging fun through healthy competition and safe community sports education, the LCI is making a positive contribution in helping support the recovery of local young people.

The LCI Annual Schools’ Dragon Boat Race values team work and communication, promoting social connection leading to improved mental health and well-honed essential life skills.

No previous experience of paddling or rowing is required for the participants, so taking part is a great way for young people to get a flavour of a new sport.

12 to 16 students from Year 7 and Year 8 make up each of the nine teams, with gold, silver and bronze medals to be awarded for the top three fastest times, and a trophy for the winning team.

The venue and provider Liverpool Watersports Centre is part of Local Solutions, a charity working with disadvantaged groups around the Liverpool City Region and North Wales.

Visit: liverpool.ac.uk/confuciousinstitute