The dragons are back. The 2018 Dragon Boat Race Committee announced that the third annual Chautauqua Lake Dragon Boat Race will take place Aug. 11 at Lucille Ball Memorial Park in Celoron. A pancake breakfast will be served from 7:30-10:30 a.m. with proceeds benefitting Meals on Wheels of Jamestown. Races begin at 9 a.m.

Originating in China 2,000 years ago, dragon boat racing is one the fastest growing water sports in the world. Races are held annually in Buffalo and in the Finger Lakes region. The event continues to be the only one of its kind on Chautauqua Lake.

Dragon boat racing is team-driven as participants work in unison to propel a 31-foot canoe through a designated course. Ten or 20 paddlers power the boat with one drummer in the bow to motivate and keep the paddlers in sync, a steer-person is provided in the stern to guide the boat.

Registration is now open for teams and individuals. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, visit chqdragonrace.org or on Facebook.