Dragon boaters paddle for cancer research

Foster City, Calif. (Map, News) - Bay Area paddlers will take to the waters in colorful dragon boats at Foster City's Leo Ryan Park this weekend to raise money for cancer research.

Paddle for Life is sponsoring Saturday's all-day event, where teams of novice paddlers will compete with a little help from experienced dragon boaters. Each team has 20 paddlers -- 10 along each side -- as well as a steersperson and a drummer.

Dragon boating, which originated in China more than 2000 years ago, has become one of the fastest growing international sports.

Proceeds from the races will benefit the American Cancer Society, the Asian American Cancer Support Network and Team Survivor.

Corporate and nonprofit teams will participate, along with teams of cancer survivors. Individuals can sign up to race for a $25 donation.

The first race begins at 9 a.m. at Ryan Park, 650 Shell Blvd., Foster City.

For more information or to register, call 650-585-1604 or visit www.paddleforlife.org. 

Bay City News contributed to this report