Approximately 70 teams and more than 1,300 paddlers will make waves in the River City the second weekend in May when the Dragon Boat Race and Festival returns for the 8th year.

The annual fundraiser for Decatur-Morgan Hospital Foundation is set for May 11, with opening ceremonies at 8:30 a.m. and the competition on the water getting underway at 9 a.m. Presented by Toray Carbon Fibers, the daylong event takes place at the Point Mallard Aquatic Center Beach.

At 8:30 a.m., the Daikin Taiko Drummers will put on a performance followed by the ancient ritual called “Awakening the Dragon” where the eyes of the dragon head are dotted as a symbol to awaken the spirit of the dragons. Racing starts at 9 a.m. and events last throughout the day until approximately 4 p.m., rain or shine.

As crews compete, spectators may watch the 40-foot colorful fleets racing to the beat of Chinese drums from the beach area of the Point Mallard Aquatic Center or from the water at a safe distance from the race course.

In addition to the action in the water, the waterpark will be filled with tailgate tents, music, concessions, cultural activities and other family events. Aquatic Center pools and rides will be closed.

Admission is free and a limited amount of free parking is available inside Point Mallard Park.

Donations will be accepted at the event with proceeds benefiting the Decatur-Morgan Hospital Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization.

Money raised from this year’s event will support the Child and Adolescent School at Decatur-Morgan West and operational expenses for the Mobile Medical Unit.

Teams, comprised of 20 paddlers, a drummer and a trained dragon boat steerer/coach, will race in authentic 46-foot-long Hong Kong style dragon boats.

Teams may have four alternates, for a total of 25 team members, or can race with a minimum of 16.

There must be at least eight female paddlers and minimum age for adult teams is 15 with parental consent.

All skill levels and physiques can participate, making it the ultimate team building sport, requiring synchronicity and finesse, more than power to win.

Each team is guaranteed at least two races on the 250-meter race course with winners advancing to the finals.

Team registration information is available at https://www.decaturmorganfoundation.org/team-faq.

There is a maximum of 80 teams and deadline to register is May 3.

For more information on the Decatur-Morgan Hospital Foundation Dragon Boat Race and Festival, visit https://www.decaturmorganfoundation.org/dragon-boat or call 256-973-2187.