, Sept. 4 -- In Yutian County, on the edge of the vast Taklamakan Desert in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, water is scarce. But every summer, the sound of drums and paddles brings a small pond to life as local villagers take part in dragon boat races.

The ancient Chinese sport, traditionally associated with the rivers and lakes of southern China, has found an unlikely home in this dry inland region.

Teams race in long dragon-shaped boats, paddling in rhythm to the beat of a drum. Success depends not only on individual strength but also on teamwork and coordination.

For many local participants, dragon boat racing was a completely new experience.

"Most of us used to play football or basketball," said 25-year-old par...