After a three-year absence, dragon boats will be paddling in the Synergy Dragon Boat races in Deerfield Beach's Quiet Waters Park on April 19. This marks the first of at least three festivals in the state for the next several weeks. The race, will be a little different from the bigger Miami festival on May 31, in that they're using smaller boats that can fit a crew of 10 to 12.

For more information, download my News Illustrated page, which features a typical racing crew and how they operate. You can also see the types of boats used in the sport and learn how to make the perfect stroke.

But before you go, check out this graphic that explains how a racecourse is set up. That way, if you watch the races, you'll impress tourists and gawkers alike.