Mercer library to host dragon boat presentation

MERCER, Wis. — The Mercer Public Library will host a presentation on dragon boat racing Thursday from 5 to 6 p.m.

Dragon boat racing — featuring 45-foot long boats capable of holding 20 paddlers and decorated with an ornate dragon head at the bow and tail at the stern — is a 2,000-year-old sport with roots in Chinese culture, according to Beth Wetzler. She is organizing an Iron County team to compete in this summer’s dragon boat festival in Minocqua.

Wetzler said the sport is one of the fastest growing water sports in the world and is regulated by the International Dragon Boat Federation.

The Iron County team is forming to compete in the Festival on Aug. 20.

Paddlers can be between 15 and 95 and should be without any arm, shoulder or back injuries.

For more information, attend Thursday’s presentation. Contact Wetzler at 715-439-3368 or [email protected].

—Richard Jenkins