On Wednesday, May 18, two dragon boats docked on the Moravia River as part of the Palacký University Sports Day programme. Accompanied by the cheers and encouragement of dozens of fans, eight eleven-member crews, made up mainly of university staff and students, set out for an exciting race. Before the race itself, the participants received professional instructions from champions from the Přerov-based Moravian Dragons club, who also took on the role of steersmen. The event also included an accompanying programme, such as a bouncy castle, pétanque, and face painting, which was often used by the competitors themselves to boost team spirit and to match not only through their team T-shirts. The atmosphere was further enhanced by music and the witty commentary of the host, Petr Zakopal.
„Moravian Dragons – they cheered us on the whole race through, and you could tell they were enjoying themselves too.“ – participant
The races started, with two teams competing against other at a time. After the first rounds, the race for the 5th to 8th place began, in which several teams surprised everyone with improved times. The thrilling semifinals, featuring the top four crews, were followed by the battle for third place, from which Boží děcka emerged victorious, while Pevnost poznání took the unpopular fourth place. In the final, the highly motivated Paragrafy ve vodě and the experienced Kosatky crossed paddles. Although after the first half it seemed that Paragrafy ve vodě would become the winners, Kosatky dug in with their fins and snatched a narrow victory. The day concluded with a pleasant concert by Salih Hadžiabdić, an Olomouc-based singer and member of the Czech/Bosnian band No Barriers.
The entire event was marked by a spirited and competitive atmosphere. Team spirit prevailed in the boats, while the amazing support from the riverbank gave every crew member the strength to keep paddling. The competitors themselves experienced emotions like waves – joy, determination, calm, and moments of rest alternated as the dragon´s head crossed the imaginary finish line and headed back to dock.
„The enthusiasm of the participants, the sportsmanship, the friendly atmosphere, and the mutual encouragement – it was an amazing event. I hope it happens again next year; I would go back in a heartbeat. Thank you for organizing it and for the great idea.“ – participant
The event brought participants new experiences and memories. For most of them, it was their first attempt at taming a sea dragon. They met new people, improved some of their skills, and boosted their confidence. For many, it became a day of relaxation, as they were able to exchange the classroom for the water, a desk for a boat, and a pen for a paddle. Activities like this show that the university environment is not shaped only by teaching, research, and administration, but also by relationships, cooperation, and shared moments. These are precisely what help to build an open and friendly university community.
„That it is something unique I will not do every other day. It was a really cool experience.“
– international participant
Events like this are not just about sport, fun, or spending an afternoon together. They also create a space where the Czech and international communities can meet naturally. International students have the opportunity to experience Czech society up close and without formal barriers, while Czech students and staff can gain insight into other cultures, experiences, and life stories. It is precisely these informal encounters that help build a more open, friendly, and diverse university envirenoment.
„I loved the camaraderie and spirit team throughout the day. I felt very included.“
– international participant
We would like to thank everyone for creating such a wonderful atmosphere, for their support, and for their endless energy. Our thanks go to all those who contribute to the event. Special thanks belong to the Academic Sports Centre and the UP Welcome Office, whose cooperation made this unforgettable event possible, as well as to the INSIGHT 2025-1-CZ01-KA220-HED-000358390 project, funded by the European Union, for the opportunity to make all of this happen.
Final results table
1 | Kosatky | 01:12,07 |
2 | Paragrafy ve vodě | 01:12,25 |
3 | Boží děcka | 01:15,42 |
4 | Pevnost poznání | 01:16,92 |
5 | ESN Slayada | 01:20,57 |
6 | KOS | 01:23,82 |
7 | Thunder Dragons | 01:32,42 |
8 | International Dragons | 01:42,38 |
