For the Star Journal

Minocqua’s Dragon Boat Festival is back after a two year break. Since 2016 more than 100 teams have paddled Lake Minocqua, coming from 13 states and Canada. After watching the event for years, organizers are hoping more people will join in the competition and become part of a team.

The festival is Saturday, Aug. 20 at Torpy Park. In addition to racing on the lake, there will be food and beverages for purchase and music throughout the day.

Hosted by the Howard Young Foundation, all proceeds will go toward fighting cancer through state-of-the-art hospital projects, including a new service line for oncology chemotherapy infusions at Howard Young Medical Center. Money raised will be matched by Aspirus, the new owner of Howard Young.

The racing festival features teams of 16-21 people competing on a course set on Lake Minocqua. Paddlers have ranged in age from 14 to 86. Two types of teams compete in the festival. Community teams are 21 people ready to have fun competing against other teams; usually made up of friends, organization members, coworkers, families or alumni groups. The second type is a competitive club team. These teams often compete at several festivals throughout the country. A youth division for ages 12-18 has also been created for this year.

The festival also has a Breast Cancer Survivors division, which it is looking to grow.

No paddling experience is necessary to participate as a team and all equipment is provided, including a coach. Teams must only supply the paddlers, half of whom must be women, and a drummer to keep the crew on pace. Register at minocquadragonboat.com. To volunteer at the event, visit the same website, or contact the Howard Young Foundation at 715-439-4005.