FUNDRAISERS have been messing about on the river to bank cash for The Shakespeare Hospice.
The annual Dragon Boat Race took place in Stratford on Sunday (September 24) and raised over £34,000 to support the hospice’s vital community services.
Twenty-four teams went head to head in a bid to become 2023 Dragon Boat Race champions.
And the competition culminated in a six-boat final, where Coventry-based company, The Manufacturing Technology Centre, emerged as the victors, beating their nearest rivals by 0.03 seconds.
Hospice spokesperson Bridget Richards said: “We are overwhelmed by the incredible turnout and support for this year’s Dragon Boat Race. It’s heartwarming to see so many people coming together to support our hospice and the vital services we provide to our community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the teams, sponsors, volunteers, and spectators who made this event possible. The funds raised will make a significant difference in improving the quality of life for our patients and their families.”
MTC spokesperson Annie Kerwin added: “It’s unbelievable. We’ve never sat in a boat together until today. This is an absolute rag-tag group of people we have persuaded at work, so I’m absolutely gobsmacked.
“We will definitely be starting a boat club at MTC now and we will be coming back next year. It’s a great event for a wonderful cause. It’s the best team event you can do and not only that, it’s also a great day out.”
