“We want to celebrate the World Sea Day in a powerful and thunderous way, so the idea arose to offer Klaipėda residents and guests of the city something that has never existed before. It was common to see viking boat races on the Sky River, but the dragon boat rally is a real novelty. We invite teams that want not only to compete with each other, but also to contribute to strengthening Klaipėda’s maritime identity to participate in the competition,” said Aleksandras Kaupas, chairman of the Lithuanian Seamen’s Union.
The participants of the event will compete for the cup of Klaipėda City Mayor, Arvydas Vaitkaus. The city manager is happy that another maritime event is appearing in the port city, which could become a beautiful autumn tradition.
“There is no shortage of events in Klaipėda in the summer, but we would like the port city to be alive at other times of the year as well. Autumn is a great time for everyone to gather again by the water, spend time actively and meaningfully, and form new maritime traditions. At the competition, we are very much looking forward to young people studying in Klaipėda, especially freshmen who are just now joining the ranks of the port city’s residents. It will be a great opportunity to expand the circle of friends and get to know Klaipėda even more. It is very important that young people get involved in the life of the city, because the city will be alive if it is bustling with active and vigorous young people,” said Arvydas Vaitkus.
39 teams will be able to compete in the Sky Rally, each of which must consist of 22 people. The rally will consist of 4 events, the tasks will be performed by the whole team or its individual participants. The main prize awaits the winners of the competition – a trip on the Brabander sailboat. The founder of this prize is Klaipėda University.
Klaipėda citizens and guests of the city will be invited not only to watch the dragon boat rally, but also to participate in an open discussion, which will discuss the potential of Klaipėda as a maritime city and the obstacles to its proper expansion. The discussion will take place in Meridian Square.
Opening of the event: Saturday, September 23, 12 p.m. The competition will take place throughout the day.
Venue: “Meridian Square.
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**Interview with Aleksandras Kaupas, Chairman of the Lithuanian Seamen’s Union**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Aleksandras. It’s exciting to learn about the inaugural Dragon Boat race in Klaipėda. Can you tell us what inspired this event?
**Aleksandras Kaupas:** Thank you for having me! We wanted to celebrate World Sea Day in a memorable and dynamic way. While Klaipėda has seen Viking boat races before, introducing a dragon boat rally is something unique and thrilling for both residents and visitors. It’s all about fostering a sense of maritime identity and community spirit.
**Editor:** That sounds fantastic! What can participants and spectators expect during this event?
**Aleksandras Kaupas:** The Dragon Boat race will bring together various teams not just to compete but to celebrate our shared maritime culture. We’re excited to have participants vie for the cup sponsored by Klaipėda City Mayor, Arvydas Vaitkaus. It’s also an opportunity for socializing and camaraderie, especially for young people, including freshmen who are new to our city.
**Editor:** The emphasis on youth and community is notable. How do you see this event contributing to Klaipėda’s maritime traditions?
**Aleksandras Kaupas:** This event is a step towards creating new maritime traditions and ensuring that Klaipėda remains lively throughout the year—not just in summer. Autumn offers a perfect backdrop for gathering by the water, engaging in active leisure, and forming lasting friendships.
**Editor:** It sounds like a wonderful initiative to keep the community engaged. What message do you hope to convey through this Dragon Boat race?
**Aleksandras Kaupas:** Our primary message is one of unity and celebration of our maritime heritage. We want to encourage teamwork, foster new connections, and remind everyone of the beauty and vitality of our coastal environment. We hope this event becomes an integral part of Klaipėda’s identity.
**Editor:** Thank you, Aleksandras, for sharing your insights with us. We look forward to the Dragon Boat race and the new traditions it will bring to Klaipėda!
**Aleksandras Kaupas:** Thank you! We’re excited too and hope to see everyone there!
