The 11th Annual Port Jefferson Dragon Boat Race Festival brought excitement to Long Island’s waterfront—and the PaddleMedics, a dedicated team of EMS professionals from Port Jefferson EMS, delivered a performance to remember. After a full day of competitive paddling and community celebration, the team captured 1st place in their division and 5th overall.

Hosted by the Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, the Dragon Boat Race Festival draws teams from across Suffolk County and beyond. Spectators lined the harbor to watch the vividly decorated boats slice through the water while local businesses, families, and visitors enjoyed food vendors, music, and cultural performances.

Practice and precision teamwork paid off. The PaddleMedics combined the strength and endurance required of EMS providers with careful race planning to edge out stiff competition in every heat. Their victory highlights the same commitment and discipline they bring to emergency medical services across the community they serve.