Dragon Boat Race Takes Off From Ping Tom Memorial Park In Chinatown

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CHICAGO (CBS) -- A tradition dating back 2,000 years took off in Chicago's Chinatown on Saturday.

The annual Chinese Dragon Boat Race was held along the South Branch of the Chicago River at Ping Tom Memorial Park.

Mayor Lori Lightfoot was present to see a traditional dragon dance before the race took off.

Dragon boats have been popular in Asian communities worldwide for more than two millennia.