This is the 30th year the dragon boat races have been held here in Fort Dodge. Badger Lake at John F. Kennedy Memorial Park is the setting for the competition.

There will be a concert Friday evening, with racing all day Saturday.

For all 30 years these races have been supervised by Tom and Linda Donner and Barb Michaels. The inspiration for the races came from the Daybreak Rotary Club’s effort to clean the Des Moines River as a service project. With the changing river levels a move to Badger Lake was necessary.

Tom Donner handles training for the boat crews, equipment for the boats and auxiliary boats. Tom said he takes part as he was “voluntold.”

There’s an early start this year with two paddling coaches Thursday.

There are 14 registered teams. Teams will come from Kansas, Minnesota and Wisconsin with 60,athletes coming from as far away as Texas and Arizona. Six of the crews come from the local area.

The gates open at 5 p.m. Friday. There will be a street dance featuring Burnin’ Sensations from Boone. Kids 12 and under allowed with an adult.

Saturday races start at 9 a.m.

A silent auction to support the Norma Schmoker Cancer Center in Fort Dodge will be held during the Dragon Boat Bash.

There is no admission charge. For more information go to www.BadgerLakeDragonBoating.com.

If You Go

What: Badger Lake Dragon Boat Bash

When: Friday evening and all day Saturday

Where: Badger Lake at John F. Kennedy Memorial Park