On Saturday, 27 June 2026, a friendly dragon boat racing competition took place on Trukhaniv Island. 

The event was organised by the Directorate-General for Rendering Services to Diplomatic Missions. Among the participants, together with their families, were the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Mexico, Audencio Contreras González, employees of the Embassy of Pakistan and the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, as well as the Honorary Consul of Iceland in Kyiv, Kostiantyn Malovanyi, who is also the president of the Mala Flotyliia sports club. Alongside the foreign diplomats, the event also brought together Ukrainian government officials, including representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine and the State Affairs Directorate, as well as entrepreneurs and GDIP partners.

Dragon boat racing is a team sport that combines centuries-old traditions and modern competitions. Its history dates back more than 2,000 years to China, where such boats were used during the Dragon Boat Festival. Initially, it was a ritual ceremony dedicated to water spirits and the hope of an abundant harvest. Still, over time, it became a popular sport that has spread worldwide. 

A standard dragon boat accommodates up to 20 rowers. A drummer, who sets the rhythm, sits at the front of the crew, while a helmsperson, responsible for steering, is at the back. The team’s success depends on the coordination and synchronous actions of all participants. Races are held over distances ranging from 200 to 2000 metres among men’s, women’s and mixed teams.

Today, dragon boat racing is one of the most dynamic team sports. Every year, thousands of competitions take place globally, bringing together hundreds of teams from various countries, and the sport is included in the programme of the World Games. Dragon boating is also actively developing in Ukraine, attracting more and more fans of team rowing. 

Before the start, participants received instructions on dragon boat rowing techniques and completed a warm-up, after which they set off for a team race. During the water journey around Trukhaniv Island, guests also had a unique opportunity to enjoy the island’s flora and fauna while taking in unforgettable landscapes.

After the race, the participants visited the GDIP Sports and Diplomatic Club, where a rich programme of active recreation awaited them: archery, basketball, billiards, badminton, table tennis, cycling, and a vintage car tour of Trukhaniv Island. Those who preferred a more relaxing form of leisure had a unique opportunity to enjoy Ukrainian folk songs performed by the LeLiia trio and Vasyl Karpus. 

Guests of this year’s water journey eagerly shared their impressions in the very first minutes after coming ashore. 

Audencio Contreras González, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Mexico to Ukraine:

‘I believe that such events are extremely important, as they provide an opportunity to share experience, positive emotions, and joy. We must cherish every moment of life, as it is priceless. Especially now, it is important to find time to connect with family, be together, and live through these precious moments, despite all the difficulties. We are grateful for the opportunity to share these happy moments with the Ukrainian people. For us, this is truly a great honour and joy. Thank you very much.’ 

Olena Yalova, Director of the State Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine:

‘This is a wonderful activity that inspires, unites people, and gives unforgettable emotions. All participants demonstrated endurance, resilience, and a desire to win — just like all Ukrainians today. Dragon boat racing has long-standing traditions originating from China and is very popular in many Asian countries. It is nice that today we have also joined this tradition and become part of such a wonderful sports event. I sincerely thank you for the invitation and the opportunity to take part.’

Vasyl Tytarchuk, Deputy Head of the State Affairs Directorate:

‘This was our first race, and I am delighted. My wife and I were the most active among our team members. Everything is organised at the highest level, and the atmosphere is wonderful! We thank Mr Pavlo and the entire GDIP team for organising such excellent leisure.’

Asif Jamali, Employee of the Embassy of Pakistan:

‘It was a great event that I really enjoyed. The breakfast and the whole programme were well organised. The GDIP team once again demonstrated their professionalism, as we have participated in their events multiple times and always received only the best impressions and great pleasure.’

Kostiantyn Malovanyi, Honorary Consul of Iceland in Kyiv and President of the Mala Flotyliia sports club:

‘This is already the third such event that we are organising jointly with GDIP, and each time it brings together more and more people. […] My team, Mala Flotyliia, and I personally promote a healthy lifestyle, so you are welcome to join us.’