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Every member of a dragon boat crew has an important role to play, according to where they are in the boat. The photo shows a standard, 22-person boat. Small boats are becoming more common, and they hold a crew of 12.
1. Drummer - also called the Caller. For festivals, when the dragon boat is in full regalia, the drummer sits in a chair at the front and uses a large drum to relay the stroke timing to the rest of the boat. In this photo, the drum has been removed for safety during a longer-distance race. The caller works with the tiller to manage the boat and its crew, and is essential for safety because they are the only person that can easily see behind the boat.
2. Strokers (benches 1, 2, and 3) - The first pair, in bench 1, set the timing for the rest of the boat, and seats 2 and 3 pick it up and carry it for the rest of the boat to follow. People in these seats tend to be shorter, lighter, and have the excellent sense of timing that is required to keep the crew together. They tend to have experience for the feel of the boat, and can adjust the timing when they can feel the crew is with them or is struggling to keep up.
3. Mids (benches 4, 5, 6, and 7) - Very often referred to as the "engine room." Taller, stronger, larger paddlers are generally put here, as they generate the raw power that is necessary for speed. They must be able to keep the timing tight for those in the back that might not be able to see the strokers.
4. Rockets (benches 8, 9, and 10) - Also sometimes referred to as the "last kick." In a developing crew, newer paddlers are sometimes put here because it's a place to learn timing and technique without interfering with the rest of the boat. However, for experienced crews, it is a highly technical seat. Those here must have the skill and experience to dig deep beyond the rushing surface water to still water below and "lift" the boat when extra speed and power is needed, particularly at the end of a race.
5. Steersperson - also called the sweep or helm. This person steers the boat using a large oar at the back, and works closely with the caller to manage the boat and crew communication. The steersperson is responsible for the safety of the boat, and therefore their instructions countermand all others from the caller or coach.
Dragon boat racing is a sprint sport. Races are generally 500 meters. The fastest crews can race 500 meters from a dead stop in just under 2 minutes.
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