An estimated 900 local and international rowers crowded the island of Boracay, Aklan for the 1st International Dragon Boat Race 2005.

Among the local teams who competed were the Manila Dragons, Team San Beda, University of the Philippines, La Salle University, Philippine Navy Team, Philippine National Police, and local contingencies from the island of Boracay. International competitors who came were from Hongkong, Singapore and Australia.

The three-day boat competition is divided in categories of 500-meter for men and women, 250-meter for men and women, 250-meter mixed, and 500-meter mixed.

Each team requires about 30 rowers on a vessel. Rowing is a paddling sport that tests an athlete's strength and endurance plus a team's discipline and cooperation.