The North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce has announced the inaugural Dragons on the Delta dragon boat race, set for Oct. 17 at Live Oak Landing in Stockton, with opening ceremonies scheduled to begin at 8 a.m.
The first race is slated to launch at 8:30 a.m. on the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, where colorful dragon boats will compete along the waterway in a day the chamber describes as a mix of friendly competition, teamwork and community spirit.
Organizers designed the event to draw participation from businesses, civic organizations and families across North Baldwin County. Alongside the races, the day will include food vendors, entertainment and team spirit competitions meant to give the event a festival atmosphere beyond the water.
The chamber is now recruiting teams to compete, along with businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities. Organizers say only 20 teams will be accepted for the inaugural race, and that spots are filling quickly.
Live Oak Landing, a popular access point on the Mobile-Tensaw Delta in Stockton, gives the event a scenic backdrop along one of Alabama’s most ecologically significant waterways. The Delta, often called “America’s Amazon” for its biodiversity, draws paddlers, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts from across the region.
Dragon boat races typically feature long, narrow boats paddled by teams of rowers in unison, with a drummer keeping pace at the bow — a format that emphasizes coordination and teamwork as much as raw speed.
Businesses and community groups interested in fielding a team or sponsoring the event are encouraged to contact the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce for registration details.