Decatur Plant Presents 12th Annual Dragon Boat Race & Festival

12th Annual Dragon Boat Race and Festival Makes a Splash Despite Rain

The 12th Annual Decatur Morgan Hospital Foundation Dragon Boat Race and Festival, presented by TORAY, took place on May 10, 2025, at the Point Mallard Aquatic Center Beach in Decatur, Alabama. TORAY has proudly served as the presenting sponsor since the event’s inception in 2012. The festival’s mission is to raise funds in support of Decatur Morgan Hospital and to bring the community together in a spirited and meaningful way.

The event opened with an energetic Japanese wadaiko drum performance, setting the tone for a day full of excitement. This was followed by the traditional “Awakening of the Dragon”, performed by Akihisa “Andy” Sakata, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Carbon Fiber Division.

A total of 40 teams competed this year, each comprising approximately 25 members, including 20 paddlers, a drummer, and a steerer. Teams raced in heats along a 200-meter course, with top performers advancing to the finals.

TORAY fielded two teams this year, both captained by seasoned leaders. A member of our Maintenance and Engineering team led the Soggy Bottom Buoys, bringing together teammates from multiple locations. Also, a member of our Spinning team led the AQUAholics all the way to the finals, earning an impressive second place in Division C.

While this year’s event was marked by persistent rain, spirits remained high. Participants came from across the TORAY family, including Laurie Calligaris, President of Performance Materials Corp. (PMC), as well as participants from Zoltek Corporation, Toray Advanced Composites (TAC), CMA Tacoma and Spartanburg. The event proved to be more than just a race—it was an opportunity to strengthen bonds and build a sense of camaraderie beyond the workplace.

Proceeds from this year’s festival will go toward the purchase of a Hologic Affirm breast biopsy machine, a significant upgrade that will enhance diagnostic capabilities at Decatur Morgan Hospital.

TORAY is proud to support our local community and hospital and looks forward to another successful event next year. We hope to see you there!