Ten competing teams formed of 170 excited racers took to their boats in the heat, vying to be the first ever Bury Hospice Dragon Boat Race champions, at Elton Reservoir on Saturday, May 11.
Supportive competitors from Essity (three teams), Car Benefit Solutions and Ladies Brunch Club (both patrons of the hospice), Made in Bury Business Academy, Bury Business Lodge, Lostock Installations, and the Fit Camp Gym team (who all donned glittery war paint), played a fundamental part in making the first Bury Hospice Dragon Boat Race an absolutely fantastic experience.
Spirits were high as the teams took part in a series of friendly but competitive races. Not even a shocking capsizing, nor a submerged dragon head, could dampen the atmosphere on the day.
The final race, which was formally launched by the mayor of Bury, Cllr Sandra Walmsley, culminated in an incredibly close photo finish, whereby all three of the Essity teams were up against one other.
First place racers Skem Dragon Slayers came in one second ahead of team Stubbins Sharks, with Team Oak placing third.
Spectators were shouting from the bank, rooting the racers on.
Everybody had a great day, everyone had a smile on their faces, and the food and drink flowed freely.
Corporate fundraiser at the hospice, Nina Camplin, said: “The atmosphere was electric.
"It was a relaxed, happy, feel-good day with a very ‘picnic/come to the races’ vibe to it.
“The great weather played a major factor on the day but the dragon boat race was very well received because it was something new – something that most people really wouldn't normally get to see in a town of Bury’s size.”
She added: “The organisations that got involved with fundraising for the hospice really embraced this event as something different, with several of them saying they want to come back next year and try and win next time.”
Approximately 400 people came out to support the racers, taking part in the raffle and tombola, as well as making generous donations on the day.
At the time of publication, the fundraising total stands at roughly £14,000 which is increasing, as the teams are continuing to push for last minute donations post the race.
Nina said: “Overall, the day was fun. It was exercise in the fresh air.
"Everyone loved catching up with friends and rooting for family and colleagues.
"It was a win-win.”
The dragon boat race will be happening again next year, and anyone who’s interested is encouraged to get in contact with Nina.
She said: “If you’ve got a team of people who are competitive, who enjoy the outdoors, who like getting together and socialising, and who like to do things for the community – the Bury Hospice Dragon Boat Race ticks every single box.
“Excitement was there in spades last Saturday.
"Thank you to Elton Sailing Club, our volunteers, Dragon Boat Events, and everyone involved.”
To register interest in Bury Hospice Dragon Boat Race 2025, please get in touch with Nina by emailing ninacamplin@buryhospice.org.uk.
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