Dragon Boat Festival 2014

It was my great pleasure to photograph the first annual Triangle Dragon Boat Festival at Koka Booth Amphitheater in Cary.  This event was an exercise for the senses in exploring all facets of Asian culture. You may recognize some familiar faces. Amongst the attendees were NC Secretary of State, Ms. Elaine Marshall; NC Treasurer, Ms. Janet Cowell; NC State Representative, Mr. Duane Hall; Cary Mayor, Mr. Harold Weinbrecht amongst many other dignitaries. 

“This is another crown jewel in what makes North Carolina the best place on the face of the Earth to live, start a business and raise your family” 
~N.C. Secretary of State Elaine Marshall in the opening ceremony

From Left: NC State Representative Mr. Duane Hall; CEO Alpha Marketing Steve Greene; Vice Chair Board of Commissioners Joe Bryan; Cary Mayor Mr. Harold Weinbrecht; NC Treasurer Ms. Janet Cowell; Representative of NC commerce secretary Sharon Decker Mr. John Loyack & Mr. John Wei.

NC Secretary of State, Ms. Elaine Marshall

Bottom Left: Cary Mayor Mr. Harold Weinbrecht with the "Empress and Emperor" and Asian Focus president Lily Chan & Board of Director Yun Chuu

Asian Focus Board of Director, Frida Darmawan, with all of the beautiful hosts.

The National Anthem

Acknowledging Cary City Council, Mr. Jack Smith

Let the races begin!

Fo Guang Shan temple Buddhist monk blessing the boats before the races

The N.C. Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce won the race between red and yellow!

Lion Dance - TACAS Youth Group Dragon Troupe

In black: Vietnamese Karate - Vo Binh Tay Son

Filipino dance group

Vendors bursting with color and life!