Dragon boat racing
Dragon Boating
The origins of the fast-growing and exciting sport of dragon boating, which has its own UK governing body, 
The British Dragon Boat Racing Association, stem from 2,000 years ago in China. The Asian dragon was the symbol of water and races were held to honour the dragon god and promote the rain needed for agricultural prosperity.
Dragon boating today uses 30-ft or 40-ft, dragon-headed boats and teams of up to 10 or 16 paddlers encouraged by a drummer and 'helm', racing usually over a 200m course. The combination of drumbeat and the helm urging the paddlers on makes for very energetic paddling. The sport is vibrant for both participants and spectators.
Dragon Boating ...
- The first UK competitions were held in 1980 on the River Thames
- The first National Championships were held in 1987
- The sport was accredited by the Sports Council in 1992