As dusk falls over Xietang River, SIP, the rhythmic splash of paddles cutting through the water blends with the thunderous beat of drums, composing a unique anthem of unremitting efforts for success. The Suzhou International Friendship Dragon Boat Team (SIFDBT), consisting of members having different skin colors, drove their boat forward like an arrow skimming across the water surface.

This team, composed of international students from France, South Africa, Indonesia, and other countries, is in training for the 2025 Jinji Lake Dragon Boat Race scheduled on May 31. The sport of dragon boat racing has set a cultural bridge for them.

Founded in 2021, the team has partaken in the Jinji Lake Dragon Boat Race multiple times. New members join it every year, sharing the fun and excitement of dragon boat racing.

With the aim of achieving an excellent performance in this year’s event, the team has trained at least once a week for a month. Their motto, “No Pain, No Gain”, reflects their journey from inexperienced movements to seamless synchronicity.

May 27, 2025

Source：苏州工业园区融媒体中心