Dragons roar as annual races return to Port Jefferson

One year after being silenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, the dragons were roaring once again at the Dragon Boat Race Festival in Port Jefferson.

Mather Hospital fielded one team this year, drawn from various departments, to compete in a series of timed races in Port Jefferson Harbor. Local and regional teams competed in different heats depending on their level of skill. The long boat teams consist of 20 paddlers, a drummer and a steerer.

Presented by the Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, the races were part of a day-long festival in Harborfront Park that also included Asian dancers, choirs, drummers and martial arts demonstrations. Awards were given in each racing category and for best t-shirt and best drummer costume.