A dragon boat race is an enjoyable experience to watch and take part in. The paddlers love the workout and being able to do it alongside of others that they share a close bond with. Spectators enjoy seeing the beautiful boats and trying to figure out who will come out on top at the end of the race. These boats have a unique appeal that is nothing short of awe inspiring. Each boat is unique from all others, and it does require teams to put thought into the casting of their dragon heads.
The Team’s Style
When you see a dragon boat, there is no denying what it is. Virtually every boat in a dragon boat race or event will have an ornate dragon head or some other type of figurine on the bow of it. Often, the dragon’s head that you see will be a representation of the team that spends their time on it. It is usually colors that they picked as a team and the head itself may tell a story. When you see a dragon on the bow, it is a symbol of power, courage, perseverance, and ambition. All the qualities that make a up a good team that wants to face their challenges head on. However, the true challenge comes from designing and building the boat, with its beautiful figurine on the front.
Creating the Perfect Bow
Throughout history, dragon boats have gone through several changes regarding how they were constructed. At one time, they were carved out of wood and then painted to look the “right” way. A true Chinese dragon boat will have a dragon head that implements the head of a camel, deer horns, ears that resemble a bull’s ears, rabbit eyes, 117 carp scales, tiger paws, eagle claws, and the neck of a snake. Today, a lot of boats are made using a mold that is approved of by the IDBF. Many of these molds used clear castin craft resin for many different “dragon” parts. The resin may be colored prior to setting or applied as a paint afterward. Either way, the end result of the figurines will take your breath away when you see them speeding past you.
DIY Dragon Heads
The details on these amazing boats is impressive for all who are lucky enough to see them. There are many teams that are hoping to upgrade their boat. These teams can hire someone to help them with the build by casting resin using two molds that are then put together, or they can carve their boat out of wood. When using wood, fiberglass will be used and then it will be topped by a clear-coat that ensures it will shine. You can do the same if you are hoping to build your own dragon head for a boat of your choosing. You can even turn your sailboat into a dragon boat or put a mermaid on the bow if you want to. You simply have to find or create the perfect mold to fill with resin. What will you create?