Press Release

For immediate release
May 22, 2008

DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL PLANNED
FOR GLENMORE RESERVOIR

CALGARY- Continued partnership between The City of Calgary and local community groups has resulted in firm plans for a Dragon Boat festival on Glenmore Reservoir this summer.

The 2008 Calgary Community Dragon Boat Race & Festival will be held on Saturday August 9^th & Sunday August 10^th at North Glenmore Park.  This year's festival will include the excitement of recreational and competitive dragon boat races, a "village" environment for local and out-of-town teams, various fun and experiential activities for children and families and a chance to honour the rich cultural history and traditions of the event through significant support from and involvement of Calgary's vibrant Chinese community.

The organizing committee has established a clear vision for the event with agreed principles for operation and governance including environmental stewardship, safety, and collaboration between user groups and the City of Calgary.

"Dragon boating is a unique sport with rich cultural traditions. We're happy the two-day Dragon Boat Race & Festival is running again in 2008, giving Calgarians a chance to celebrate, participate and compete in the sport," said Karen Young of The City of Calgary, Recreation.

Details surrounding the festival are not yet final, but The City is working with the partner groups to organize practice times and other logistics. There are many volunteer opportunities at the festival.  Details will be posted on Calgary.ca or www.chinatowncalgary.com/dragonboat or by dialing 3-1-1.

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The City of Calgary