Dragon Boat racing to help the local hospice

Have you got what it takes to paddle across Alton Water reservoir?

Dragon Boat races are a great activity, and can raise a lot of money for good causes.

Local businesses are being invited to get involved in Dragon Boat racing in June, in aid of St Elizabeth Hospice.

Teams are invited to make a splash at the St Elizabeth Hospice Dragon Boat Race on Sunday June 15 at Alton Water.

Dragon Boat racing is an ancient Chinese tradition and the fastest growing water activity in Britain today.

Crews of up to 10 people are needed to paddle each 30ft boat, with a drummer at the front beating time and a helm at the tail steering a straight course in the race.

The event is open to everyone and the crews will battle it out over the 200m course watched by spectators – so make sure you bring your family and friends along to cheer you on.

Sarah Archer, St Elizabeth Hospice’s fundraising partnerships manager said: “The Dragon Boat Race will be exciting, colourful and great fun. Cheer along teams as they take part in three races with the fastest teams going through to semi-finals and then a grand final. No previous experience is required, just plenty of team spirit!

“All the money raised from the event will help provide local Hospice care for local people.”

There will be food, drink and entertainment on the day making it a great day out for all the family, she added.

To find out more or to register for the event, visit www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk

St Elizabeth Hospice costs £9.1 million a year to run and relies on donations, fundraising, gifts in wills and support for its shops to fund the majority of these costs.