Posted on 18th Jul
The countdown is under way to Newark Dragon Boat Festival.
Based on a Chinese tradition dating back more than 2,000 years, dragon boat racing has become one of the fastest-growing and most popular water-based activities.
Up to 10 people paddle each 30ft boat with a drummer at the front, while raising funds for two Newark-based charities — Beaumond House Hospice and the Children’s Bereavement Centre.
The event takes place on Sunday, 18th September at Newark’s Riverside Park, from 10am to 5.30pm.
It is already fully-booked with 36 teams signed up, comprising local businesses, community groups, and groups of friends.
The course is upstream from Trent Bridge to Town Lock.
Rachel Wilson, fundraising manager at the Children’s Bereavement Centre, said: “Part of the appeal is that the dragon boat race offers the opportunity to get everyone working together in a very short space of time, giving a very real and lasting sense of individual achievement and team spirit.
“We are delighted to once again be hosting the Newark Dragon Boat Festival in partnership with Beaumond House. This year promises to be bigger and better than ever, and we have an amazing day planned, packed full of friendly competition on the water and family fun on land. A huge thank you to our headline sponsor, GXO Logistics, event partners Ringrose Law, all our supporters and, of course, the teams that have entered.”
Melissa Gaffney, events and community fundraising manager at Beaumond House Hospice, added: “This event is one of Newark’s most important fundraising events in the calendar. Not only do 36 teams support two fantastic charities, but the local community gather to support hospice care and children’s bereavement services. It’s been inspiring speaking to the teams involved and hearing their personal stories and involvement with our charities. We can’t wait to deliver the Newark Dragon Boat Festival for a third time.”
The charities will also be supported by Newark Town Council, Newark and Sherwood District Council, Greenzone Facilities Management, Security2, and Grey Monkey Toilets.
Among the on-land entertainment will be live music.
