Relive the scene of 50 years ago: bamboo raft races at Dapo Pond in Taitung

By Li Xinyi, compiled and reported

To revive the unique cultural charm of Dapo Pond in Chishang Township, Taitung, where bamboo rafts dotted the waters 50 years ago, Dapo Pond will host a "Bamboo Raft Race" and a "Subway Triathlon" event. For those who simply wish to experience rowing a bamboo raft on Dapo Pond, a reservation-only "Bamboo Raft Public Experience Camp" will also be held from July 2 to August 28. During the bamboo raft season, the ticket price is NT$50 per person, while for non-holiday reservations, the price is NT$80 per person.

The Taitung Dapo Pond Bamboo Raft Competition will be held on July 9, divided into social groups and organizational teams, with 16 participants per team regardless of age or gender. The top prize is NT$16,000. The Subway Triathlon will take place on July 10, consisting of a 200-meter swim, a 350-meter bamboo raft paddle, and a 5,000-meter run. The individual race expects 20 participants, and the group category expects 30 teams. The top three winners will be awarded, with first, second, and third prizes of NT$8,000, NT$5,000, and NT$3,000 respectively. Registration is open until July 1, 2011.

Starting July 2, Dapo Pond in Chishang Township will open to the public for bamboo raft experience activities. All participants must wear life jackets throughout the ride, paddle the raft themselves to explore the pond, and follow all safety guidelines. Each raft experience lasts 30 minutes. Those exceeding the time limit by 15 minutes will need to purchase an additional experience ticket. Reservations for the experience activity can be made in advance via the official website or by calling 089-862-041 to reach Hong Yuandian.