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Teams race along a straight course in an assigned lane varying from 250 to 1,000 meters. The object is to have all 20 paddlers working together at top speed with synchronized strokes of the blade hitting the water. A drummer helps to keep the rythym and urge the crew on to victory. A seasoned Dragon Boat crew can travel over the water at 3 to 4 meters per second. Teamwork is the key.
We have seen manatees and been visited by porpoises at practices, and frequently see other wildlife. The team takes scenic paddling trips from time to time, and goes on a variety of other outings, unrelated to paddling. | 
Dragon Boat Racing Returns to Broward County The Synergy Dragon Boat Racing Series kicked off on April 19th at Quiet Waters Park in Deerfield Beach. Teams of 11 paddled colorful boats that resemble stylized Chinese dragons and are more than 30 feet long. Paddlers are led by a drummer who helps them stay on the beat and motivated as arms burn and the water flies. Additional events are scheduled for June 28th, September 6th and November 22nd.
Dragon boating is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. The last full regatta in Broward County was three years ago. Will Murphy, president of Synergy Outdoor Adventure Resources (SOAR), and an avid dragon boat paddler himself, decided that was too long, and SOAR is directing a series of four regattas. Typical dragon boats seat 20 paddlers, plus a drummer and a steersperson. However, SOAR is using special "mini" dragon boats that seat only10 paddlers, plus drummer and steersperson. "Using the minis makes the sport accessible to smaller companies and community groups," Murphy said. "As the captain of a dragon boat team myself, I can tell you that the logistics of getting 22 people all on the same page can be daunting. We think this event will help introduce lots of new people to this fast-growing and exciting sport. We expect many will go on to paddle in the local festivals that use regular boats, hopefully by associating with other small teams in their community." The Series will benefit the Fort Lauderdale Children's Theatre, a charity founded in 1952 providing programs and services to youth and adults. According to Murphy, dragon boating has gained popularity in part due to its great team-building characteristics. "Dragon boat teams succeed when all members are synchronized in their efforts, and when everyone is committed to the success of the team. Cohesive teams can defeat teams of stronger athletes," he said. The regattas will have a division for competitive teams and another for corporate and community teams. Both divisions will be open to coed teams, with single-sex teams being added if there is sufficient demand. Competitive teams will race 250 meters and 500 meters. Corporate and community teams will race at 250 meters. Steerspersons, paddles and personal flotation devices will be provided (but those having their own that meet standard regulations will be permitted to use them). More information can be found at www.SOARteam.com or by contacting Will Murphy at (954) 922 3388 or WillMurphy@SOARteam.com | 
