MORE than 500 people, 12 sporting teams and six community teams from Bendigo took advantage of a perfect spring day on Sunday for the Bendigo Dragon Boat Regatta.
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The regatta was hosted by the Dragons Abreast Bendigo and Dragons Afloat Bendigo clubs with both teams getting a chance to enjoy the day as well as hosting duties.
Dragon boat racing originated in China and has developed into a popular competitive sport.
Dragons Abreast Bendigo secretary Donna Harrison said planning for the regatta began a number of months ago.
"We all enjoyed the day it was beautiful weather," Ms Harrison said.
"Our paddlers finished fourth and just missed out on trophies.
"But we had the Chinese lion dancers and barbecues on for everyone."
President of Dragons Afloat Bendigo Robyn Major said the two clubs working together made organising the regatta easier.
"It was good that the two clubs could host it together," Ms Major said.
"We are into our fifth season and are always encouraging participation.
"(Dragons Afloat) didn't win anything, we didn't allow ourselves enough time to train because we were so busy getting people onto the water."
Ms Major said while paddling in dragon boats could be really hard work is was one of the sports that was terrific for people of all abilities.
"It is a great team sport that encourages socialising and is also good, hard work," she said.
"(Both clubs) do a lot to raise membership and support."
Dragons Afloat Bendigo are a prostate cancer survivors and supporters boat while Dragons Abreast Bendigo is made up of breast cancer survivors.
Dragons Abreast works hard to spread the message of breast cancer awareness through participation in dragon boat racing.
The next Dragon Boat Victoria regatta is in Ballarat on November 2.
See a gallery of Sunday's Dragon Boat Regatta at www.bendigoadvertiser.com.au