OWENSBORO, KY (WFIE) -
After some boats sank last year, Dragon Festival teams are getting to practice before the big river race this weekend in Owensboro.
Organizers hope the practice sessions will help teams from going down, literally.
Dragon Boat Festival leaders are expecting a good crowd for Saturday's races on the Ohio River.
"It is unique. A lot of people in the region are used to boats being out on the water with the old power boat races," said public events director Tim Ross. "We try to keep the Asian atmosphere to it. We try to have some Asian entertainment, some Asian food."
The festival will see 21 teams this year, seven more than last year.
On Wednesday, teams got their first look on the water.
It's the second time racing for the Meadowlands Froggy Paddlers.
"I thought we were crazy. I didn't know what I was getting myself into. It's a great form of exercise and I think it brings our staff together," said racer Beth Ewing.
These racers say moving the boats is easier said than done.
"It's really hard. It's a lot of work," Ewing said.
Two boats sank at last year's races, giving participants a surprise.
"Believe it or not, it was the city of Owensboro boat. The team boat that went down. Part of it was due to choppy water. Part of it due to a little bit of inexperience," said Ross.
No one was hurt, but organizers want to be prepared for anything so they are offering practice sessions this year.
"We can correct most of everything that happened as long as we get some practice in. Fire rescue will be out there. We'll have some wave runners," Ross said.
"We think it'll be a great idea. We're hoping that no teams will be in the water this year. The Froggy Paddlers are out there and we hope you all get a good practice session in because we're going for the gold," said Kevin, a member of the Froggy Paddlers.
The festival will start at 8:00 a.m. Saturday morning and it's free to watch.
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Organizers hope the practice sessions will help teams from going down, literally.
