From Sea to Shining Seawolves: Stony Brook’s Dragon Boat Tradition Continues

Stony Brook Seawolves took to the waters of Port Jefferson Harbor at the 11th annual Dragon Boat Race Festival, hosted by the Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, of which Stony Brook University and Stony Brook Medicine are members.

More than 40 students and employees participated in the September 13 festival, which drew hundreds of spectators and kicked off with opening ceremonies that included an Asian color guard and the blessing of the fleet with the traditional "Eye Dotting" ceremony to awaken the dragon led by Buddhist monks.

Dragon boats raced in three-lane heats along a 250-meter course, with teams composed of 20 paddlers, a steersman, and a drummer who kept the beat to maintain synchronicity.

Two teams from Stony Brook competed, representing both the university and Stony Brook Medicine (SBM). While the Stony Brook teams, made up of students, faculty and staff, didn't make it to the final round, they still enjoyed a full day of festivities including land dragon races and a tug-of-war competition.

"Our Stony Brook students and staff had a wonderful day at this year's Dragon Boat Race Festival," said Erika Karp, associate director of University and Medicine Community Relations, who co-managed the SBU team. "And while our teams didn't make it to finals, they seemed at ease on the water, which shouldn't come as a surprise. After all, Port Jefferson is Seawolves Country."

Judy Jaquez, associate director for Diversity, Intercultural and Community Engagement; Paola Calderone, assistant director of DICE; and Ashley Harris, coordinator of DICE also served as co-managers of the SBU team. Dawn Dawson, nurse practitioner at Stony Brook Children's Hospital (SBCH), was captain of the SBM team, and Michelle Ceo, nurse practitioner at SBCH, served as SBM's drummer.

"It was an experience to cherish," said Manasa Kumari, graduate coordinator, Department of Student Community Development, Student Media Services at Stony Brook. "The whole atmosphere was filled with festivities, amazing dances, and the dragon was incredible. It was my first time taking part in the Dragon Boat event and I loved it. The team spirit was amazing, everyone was so enthusiastic, and rowing together in rhythm made the race so much fun. I'd love to do it again."

In addition to the races, attendees enjoyed a cultural festival featuring performances including the Lion Dance, Taiko drumming, and martial arts demonstrations. Taiko Tides, Stony Brook University's traditional Japanese drumming group, also performed.

- Robert Emproto