Dragon boating is a fast-paced, paddle-driven water sport that originated in China more than 2,000 years ago. See History for more information.
In modern dragon boat racing, crews usually include 18-20 paddlers in a standard boat, which is approximately 13 metres long, or 8-10 paddlers in a small boat, which is 9.6 metres long. Each boat also has a drummer and a sweep. For races and ceremonies, the fibreglass boats are fitted with a decorative Chinese dragon head and tail.
The drummer sits at the front of the boat and beats the drum in time with the strokes, the two front paddlers who set the paddling pace. The sweep stands at the back of the boat and uses an oar to steer. The sweep is also the boat captain, instructing paddlers when to start or stop.
Competitions, also known as regattas, are held around the world and include local, state, national, international and continental events.
