HDB employee dies after dragon boat race at Singapore Regatta Waterfest

A Housing and Development Board (HDB) employee died on 16 November after participating in a dragon boat race at the Singapore Sports Hub’s Water Sports Centre in Kallang.

The 49-year-old man, a representative of HDB’s corporate team, had completed a race on the final day of the Singapore Regatta Waterfest. According to HDB, he was resting after the event when he collapsed.

Emergency medical assistance was rendered immediately on-site. The man was subsequently transported to Tan Tock Seng Hospital for further treatment. However, despite resuscitation efforts by medical staff, he was pronounced dead.

In a statement to local media outlets, HDB expressed its condolences and confirmed the incident. “We are deeply saddened by his passing,” said the board.

“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and our own colleagues who are grieving this sudden loss. We are in close contact with the family and are providing them our fullest support and assistance during this difficult time.”

The Singapore Police Force confirmed that it was alerted to the incident at 12.20pm. The man had been admitted unconscious and died shortly after. Based on preliminary investigations, police do not suspect foul play. Further investigations are ongoing.

The organisers of the Singapore Regatta Waterfest—Kallang Alive Sport Management and the Singapore Dragon Boat Association—also issued a joint statement.

“Immediate medical assistance was rendered on-site when the participant reported feeling unwell,” they stated. “We are deeply saddened by the incident, and our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time. We are working closely with the relevant authorities to provide further assistance if needed.”

The Singapore Regatta Waterfest, held from 14 to 16 November, is one of the largest dragon boating events in the country. According to the event’s official website, it featured nearly 4,000 participants across 25 race categories.

The event brings together teams from educational institutions, public sector bodies, and corporate organisations, aiming to celebrate the end of the dragon boat racing season.

This year’s edition also included games and waterfront activities intended to promote community participation and celebrate the sport’s cultural significance.

The identity of the deceased man has not been publicly released.