Heart of the Dragon Boat Festival
Central Georgia's ONLY dragon boat races in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters,
where teams paddle in unison tomake a big impact on young lives!
Saturday, September 20, 2025
Lake Tobesofkee’s Sandy Beach - Macon, GA
Teams of up to 14 paddlers, alternates, and a drummer race in authentic Hong Kong-style dragon boats in this unique cultural event. Coaches/professional steerers, boats and all equipment are provided to assist each team. All ages and skill levels can paddle, making it the ultimate team-building sport. Teams of paddlers representing companies, universities, breast cancer survivors, and friends row will race on beautiful Lake Tobesofkee in action-packed, exhilarating races for the Heart of the Dragon Trophy plus other special awards. In addition to the races, have fun at our Beach Bash featuring family-friendly games and activities and a DJ spinning tunes. All are welcome to join us!
Dragon boat racing is the perfect team-building activity as it fosters collaboration, synchrony, and collective strength, bringing participants together to achieve a common goal. No experience is necesssary and all equipment is provided as well as one complimentary training the day before the race (pre-registration required).
The Heart of the Dragon Festival is Big Brothers Big Sisters’ largest fundraiser. Funds support our nationally recognized award-winning mentoring program for at-risk youth in Central Georgia.
WHAT IS A DRAGON BOAT RACE?
Dragon boat racing is the 8th fastest growing sport in the world with more than 50 million people in 63 countries participating each year. If everyone is watching and working together, magic can happen in a dragon boat. Teams have to follow the strategy and then execute. The team members in the front must paddle in perfect timing as an example for the back half of the boat. When the power from the middle is mixed with the speed and ability of the paddlers in the back, a dragon boat can glide quickly through the water.
In addition to the actual races happening on the lake, there is a festival atmosphere happening on land. Each team has a tailgating area and friends to cheer them on. Our fabulous DJ will spin great tunes while our beach bash Bring a picnic and get ready for lots of fun to support Big Brothers Big Sisters!
When: Saturday, September 20, 2025
Races are slated to start at 9:00 AM and should run through mid-afternoon. Schedule is based on team registration.
Where: Sandy Beach at Lake Tobesofkee in Macon, GA
Looking for a fun team building activity or unique sponsorship opportunity for your company?
Call us at 478-745-3984, ext. 114 or email kids@bbbsga.org to learn more!
Thank you to our 2025 sponsors and PARTNERS!
Cadence Bank
Carmeuse Lime & Stone
Central Georgia Technical College
Georgia Power - Key Street
Georgia Power - Plant Scherer
Macon Magazine
Magnolia State Bank
SunMark Bank
Additional Sponsors and Supporters
Cleaning General Janitorial Services
Middle Georgia Friends and Shenanigans
Morrison Family
Morrison Family
Questions or want more information? Contact Betsy Fitzgerald at betsyf@bbbsga.org or 478-745-3984 ext. 114.