Where do the strongest paddlers sit in a dragon boat?
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. The stern paddler is the source of the most powerful strokes and is the person steering the canoe. Ideally, you want your most experienced paddler in this position – or, if everyone is at about the same level in terms of experience, the heaviest paddler seated here.Sitting in the Stern (Back) of the Canoe The back of the canoe is where the steering takes place. For this reason, the more experienced paddler, or more coordinated person, should be in the stern of the canoe. When there are only two canoeists, it is also better to have the heavier person in the back of the canoe.If there are two people in the canoe, have one sit in the back and one sit in the front, with the heavier person or more experienced paddler in the rear of the boat, called the stern.Bow and stern pair tend to be the most technically skilled. Middle 4 tend to be the engine of the boat. Therefore coaches tend to put the least experienced rowers in 3 seat so they dont screw up the boat too much.
How many paddlers are in a dragon boat?
The crew of a standard dragon boat typically consists of 22 team members: 20 paddlers in pairs facing toward the bow of the boat, 1 drummer or caller at the bow facing toward the paddlers, and 1 steerer standing at the rear of the boat. The most obvious difference is that dragon boating is a paddle sport with the paddlers facing forward and no riggers or oarlocks. Unlike rowing, national teams and most competitors at any level do not travel to events and races with their own boats. The paddlers bring their paddles and the drummer their stick.