Dragon boating originated in China more than 1500 years ago and was introduced in North America in the mid-1980s. The boats are about 12.5 metres long and are manned by 20 paddlers under the direction of a drummer, who beats out the pace, and a steers person. Depending on the event, races cover distances of 300 to 650 metres and can take 2 to 4 minutes to complete. Dragon boat festivals are now held throughout North America and is the fastest gro...