Dragon Boat Racing has come to Hereford

While it has its origins in China, racing with Dragon Boats has become very popular in the UK over the last ten years or so. Many events are run for charity particularly by Rotary Clubs.

Our event on Sunday 25th August will take place on the Wye, upstream from the Hereford city bridges. The race takes place over a course similar to that used by our ducks.

Dragon Boat Events Ltd. will provide four boats each with a qualified helmsperson. The boats are designed to take a maximum of 16 paddlers. An additional team member sits high on the prow and keeps the rhythm on the big drum. Most races will be between two teams and while they are racing the other two boats will be getting into place. Unless something dreadful happens with the weather each team will race in three heats.

Team members will be given a safety and technique briefing at the start. Times are likely to improve over the three heats. The teams with the fastest times will race in the finals. A presentation will follow.

Dragon Boat Events are very experienced running these events. Proper safety arrangements and insurance cover are in place.

This is a Charity event and participants will be looking for sponsorship. See details here

• If you wish to watch there will be a races every ten or fifteen minutes from about 10.30
• If you want to take part, contact Rotary. See details here