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Dragon Boat racing began in China more than 2,000 years ago as a fertility rite to ensure plentiful crops. Teams compete in Dragon Boats which are large canoe-like vessels fitted with ornately carved dragon's heads and tails. Crews of 16 people sit in pairs and paddle to compete in the timed races. Each boat has a drummer beating time to keep the paddlers in unison, and a professional helmsperson in the stern to guide the boat.

This was the 2nd Annual Dragon Boat Race on the River Medway in front of Tonbridge castle. It was being run at the same time as a Medieval Fair in the grounds of the castle. This is the final and here the three fastest teams from the various heats race along the river. The team nearest the camera in the white chef hats won. The view is from the top of the south curtain wall of the castle.