On Friday, July 21, 2023, the Olympic Lake once again erupted in roaring cheers as the twelfth Dragon Boat Race got underway and TUM and LMU pitted their strength against each other in a spectacular competition. The competition is inspired by the legendary tradition of the dragon boat race between Oxford and Cambridge.

In the middle of the surging lake, one boat stood out and took the hearts of the spectators by storm - the costumed boat of POKAL / General Medicine. Like warriors from a post-apocalyptic world, straight out of the dystopian film classics "Mad Max" and "Waterworld", the team took up the challenge. Their dusty faces reflected the confidence that general medicine defies all crises and is a valuable companion, whatever disaster the world may face. Under the motto "MadMeds - General Practice to the End Times", the participants paddled with determination and team spirit.

The race not only demonstrates sporting ambition, but also the cohesion and enthusiasm of the doctoral students, professors, university and hospital staff for such events. It is a special experience that brings joy every year and will certainly take place again next year with us on board.

With this in mind: "Paddle up, paddle down - POKAL never goes down!!!! Paddle down, paddle up - POKAL never gives up!!!"