An intense dragon boat race was hard fought in Chebei, Guangzhou, on May 24, six days before Dragon Boat Festival – one of China's longest-standing traditions.

An annually-held dragon boat race takes place in Chebei, Guanghzhou, on May 24, to celebrate Dragon Boat Festival on May 30. [Photo by Deng Bo/ycwb.com]

Setting off from Longxi Bridge which straddles Chebeiyong River, the paddlers pushed on to Shamei Bridge before turning back, covering over 600 meters.

More than 900 participants from around Guangzhou took part in the race, acting as oarsmen aboard 12 dragon boats.

More dragon boat-related activities are to be held in the coming days to promote the festival. [Photo by Deng Bo/ycwb.com]

After several races, Dongpingliang, Hetaiyuan and Jianyue teams respectively took the top three steps.

Chebei held a variety of activities on May 28, "Zhaojing Day", a day for local people to celebrate and promote dragon boat-related traditions – with more than 100 dragon boats gracing the water.

More than 900 people row fiercely to the beat of drums along Chebeiyong River. [Photo by Deng Bo/ycwb.com]