Scarborough's Dragon Boat Races Get Underway Today

Sunday, 18 June 2023 06:00

By Charlie Hopper

Today marks the return of the anticipated Dragon Boat Races at North Yorkshire Water Park.

The first race get's underway at 10am and 22 teams, of 17 paddlers in a 12-metre long boat, will be racing to raise more for their chosen charities.

Peter Howgate - who's a member of the Scarborough Rotary Cavaliers - says that the water park is the perfect location for the races.

There is catering on offer, with a coffee bar, ice cream and a bar for people at the event. Car parking is £5 for the day.

This year the Rotary Club received funding from the Yorkshire Coast BID as they look to add value to the event and make it grow as an event.

Teams are all racing for the following charities

Alzheimer's Research
Andy's Man Club
Andrew McGeown Legacy Fund
Boys Brigade 5th Scarborough Company
Carers Plus Yorkshire Ltd
Children's Heart Surgery Fund
Dementia Forward
Dementia UK
East Coast Tigers
Great North Air Ambulance
MND Association Local Support Group
SASH
Scarborough Hospital - Special Care Baby Unit
Springhead School
St Catherine's Hospice
The Hinge in Bridlington
The Rainbow Centre
The Wave Project
West Way Open Arms
YMCA Scarborough
Yorkshire Air Ambulance
Zoe's Place

Peter Howgate says that the charities chosen are close to people's hearts.

Trophies will also be awarded to the winners, together with medals sponsored by the BID.

This year prizes will also be awarded to paddlers in the best fancy dressed boat, the boat that has raised the most funds for their chosen charity; the team with the most women paddlers.

A programme, funded by the BID, will be available on the day detailing the teams, sponsors and supported charities.