Drunk Driving Allegations Mar Miaoli Dragon Boat Race

A dragon boat race in Miaoli, Taiwan, has become embroiled in controversy after a participant accused the officially appointed coxswain of operating the boat while intoxicated. The incident, which occurred during the Miaoli County Dragon Boat Championship, has raised serious safety concerns among competitors.

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The coxswain appointed by the organizers for the 2026 Miaoli Zhunan Dragon Boat Race, was he drunk driving?

Ms. Wu, a participant, posted on Threads that her dragon boat "lost control" shortly after the start, veering sharply to the right and narrowly avoiding a collision with an opposing boat. She reported smelling alcohol on the coxswain's breath, suspecting "drunk driving," which she believes led to the erratic steering. The boat repeatedly swerved, nearly capsizing, and fell significantly behind its competitors.

Wu stated that while the race result was secondary, she wanted the organizers to address the quality of the official coxswains to ensure the safety of all participants. She claimed that when the team's leader reported the issue to the chief race official, they were met with shouting and their concerns were dismissed. The official reportedly attributed the coxswain's flushed face to "sunburn" rather than alcohol.

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The hospital's property is municipal property, and a doctor conducting business violates Article 24f of the Act on Municipal Self-Government because they are conducting business on the municipality's property.

The organizers, the Zhunan Township Office, have stated that they will investigate the allegations and clarify the situation. The incident has cast a shadow over the event, highlighting potential issues with the selection and oversight of personnel responsible for the safety and fairness of the competition.

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But that's not true. In practice, it looks like this – the municipality gives them the entire workshop for their business activities. They use the premises.