WASHINGTON, DC — On May 31st, the thunder of paddles and the roar of community spirit returned to Thompson’s Boat Center for the annual Washington DC Dragon Boat Festival, where a new chapter was written for Filipino American youth leadership and legacy.
Introducing Fearless, Yet Persistent — a brand-new dragon boat team under Filipino Young Professionals of DC (FYP DC) — making a stunning debut with a first-place win in the B-Minor Division 200m race. The team, led by FYP DC President Gerren Sayco, is the spiritual successor to the legendary Lapu Lapu Warriors, a beloved team that proudly represented the Filipino community for years under the leadership of former captain Vic Ecarma.
The Lapu Lapu Warriors officially retired in 2023 after a decorated history at the festival, closing a chapter that left big shoes to fill. In 2024, FYP DC sought to carry that legacy forward, but a confluence of challenges — from financial constraints to missed deadlines — made it impossible to field a team.
Determined to try again in 2025, FYP DC reemerged with a fresh identity and renewed resolve. The team name, Fearless, Yet Persistent, not only honors the FYP acronym but also reflects the resilient spirit that pushed the team past every obstacle leading up to race day.
Months of recruitment brought together a roster of 24 paddlers, including both new faces and seasoned veterans. Practices at The Wharf, organized by the festival committee, gave the team precious hours on the water — many for the first time — to develop form, rhythm, and camaraderie.
Race day itself was far from calm. Originally slated for May 17th, the festival had been delayed twice due to weather and city events, finally landing on May 31st amid unpredictable skies. Thunder, rain, and gusty winds threatened to derail the day again, but Fearless, Yet Persistent showed up ready.
Their 200m qualifying round performance earned them a spot in the B-Minor finals, but a miscommunication nearly caused the team to miss their race. In true underdog fashion, they raced against the clock to load the boat, paddled furiously to the start line, and delivered a stunning victory, clinching gold in their division.
The 500m race was ultimately canceled due to continued weather issues, but for this newly formed team, the day was already a triumph.
“This wasn’t just about winning,” said captain Gerren Sayco. “It was about keeping the legacy of the Lapu Lapu Warriors alive, and showing that FYP DC is still here — stronger and more united than ever.”
FYP DC now plans to make dragon boat racing a lasting tradition and welcomes anyone in the Filipino community — regardless of experience — to join in the journey.
“No hardcore pressure,” Sayco added. “Just good vibes, hard paddling, and lasting memories.”
Interested in paddling next year?
Follow FYP DC (@fypdc) on social media or visit their website at https://www.fypdc.org/ to learn how you can get involved.
Fearless. Yet Persistent. A team reborn — and here to stay.
