Cambridge Dragon Boat Festival to raise money for Addenbrooke's Charitable Trust
Dragon boats at the ready... you can now enter a spectacular race to raise money for Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust.
The 15th Cambridge Dragon Boat Festival was launched by the charity and Gable Events yesterday, marking the Chinese New Year.
Supported this year by the Cambridge Independent, the festival takes place on Saturday, September 7 on the River Cam at Fen Ditton.
One of the largest and most eagerly anticipated team events in the region, more than 40 crews, representing companies and organisations from across Cambridgeshire and surrounding areas, are expected to battle it out over the 200-metre racecourse.
They will all be seeking to knock CMR Surgical off its pedestal as reigning champion, while also raising vital funds for Addenbrooke’s and the Rosie hospitals.
Dragon boat racing has an ancient Chinese history dating back 2,000 years and according to the Chinese calendar, 2019 is the Year of the Pig. People born in this year are believed to be energetic, enthusiastic and blessed with good fortune – all important qualities for achieving dragon boat success this September.
Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust (ACT), which will benefit from the fundraising, is the only charity dedicated to making a difference for patients at Addenbrooke’s and the Rosie hospitals. Whether it is treatment for an emergency, acute condition, pregnancy or long-term illness, ACT believes that every patient deserves the highest quality of care available.
By entering a dragon boat crew and raising money for ACT, the teams will be helping to raise funds for cutting-edge technology, specialist services, vital research and extra comforts for patients.
Carol Lester, director of festival organiser Gable Events, said: “This action-filled event is an unmissable opportunity for team-building, whether you’re welcoming new employees or thanking your team and key clients.
“Taking part will give your company a unique opportunity to challenge your peers on the water and build relationships while supporting a great charity. We expect places to be in high demand so recommend teams get their entries in early.”
No previous experience is required to take part, just plenty of team spirit so why not take up the challenge? The dragon boats, qualified helms and all racing equipment are provided and each crew is guaranteed a minimum of three races.
The festival offers a full day of fun on land as well as water, with activities on the river bank to entertain teams and spectators.
The team raising the most money for ACT will be awarded the charity trophy and receive the special prize of a Cambridge Escape Rooms experience.
For more details or to book your place on the start line, visit dragonboatfestivals.co.uk/cambridge or call Gable Events on 01780 470718. To find out more about the vital work of Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust, call Emily Willdigg, events lead, on 01223 217757 or visit act4addenbrookes.org.uk.
