Oars at the ready as charity dragon boat race returns

The fundraising event for Rockinghorse children’s charity will take place on Sunday, May 14.

Teams compete in 40-foot long canoe-like boats, ornately carved with dragon’s heads and tails.

Crews of between 12 to 16 people sit in pairs and paddle their way through a series of timed races over distances of up to 250 metres.

Rockinghorse is looking for supporters to sign-up and take part in the challenge (over 16’s only) which takes place on the waters at Marina Square in Brighton.

Raising funds for the charity’s Sussex Giving for Sussex Children 50th anniversary appeal, registration is £100 per boat, plus £50 sponsorship per competitor.

Last year more than 200 competitors took part in the Dragon Boat Race to raise £20,000 for projects at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital in Brighton.

This year, all money raised will be donated towards the charity’s Golden Jubilee appeal which is supporting 10 children’s centres and paediatric services in Sussex.

There will also be plenty for spectators at the annual event, with refreshments available on site and a host of activities and entertainment for little ones.

Entry is free for spectators and all ages are welcome to attend and watch the races, which will begin at 10am.

For more information or to sign-up for this event, please call Analiese Doctrove on 01273 330044 or email [email protected].