Brindleyplace dragonboat race sets oar-some target

A popular fundraising event on Birmingham’s business calendar has set itself a record target for this year.

Organisers of the 2017 Brindleyplace Dragonboat Race are targeting £100,000 from this year’s event, which is in aid of blood cancer charity Cure Leukaemia. All funds will go towards its £1m Centre Appeal.  

The 18th annual Dragonboat Race returns to the Birmingham and Worcester Canal at Brindleyplace on Saturday June 24. Entries are now open, with businesses across Birmingham invited to take to the water in 20ft traditional Chinese longboats and compete in a series of heats.

Nathan Sanghera, marketing and events executive at Brindleyplace, said: “Last year, over 200 of the city’s professionals took part, and thousands turned up to show their support on the day, helping us raise a staggering £70,374.

“Thanks to the £100,000 fundraising target, the Brindleyplace Dragonboat Race is a critical part of the charity’s £1m appeal and we’re working closely with Cure Leukaemia to make it the most memorable year yet, with even more fun and games for the whole family to enjoy.”

Anyone not taking part in the race will be able to watch live on the canalside or via a giant screen, courtesy of Elonex Outdoor Media, in Brindleyplace’s Central Square.

A host of other family-friendly activities will also be taking place throughout the day, including themed live music, face painting, puppet shows, dancing and street performers.

Paul Anderson, head of Deutsche Bank’s Birmingham operation, headline sponsor for the sixth year running, said: “The Brindleyplace Dragonboat Race is one of Birmingham’s most successful annual corporate fundraising events and one we’re delighted to support, and take part in, again this year.”

Cure Leukaemia Patron and former England, Wolves and Crystal Palace footballer, Geoff Thomas, said: “In 2016 I raced in the Cure Leukaemia boat with my whole family and it was one of the best fundraising events I’ve ever been involved in and one I would definitely recommend to businesses and friends alike.  

“Not only is it a lot of fun, but it is raising vital funds for a fantastic cause. As a former patient at the world-class Centre for Clinical Haematology I know, first-hand, the amazing and life-saving work that goes on there led by Professor Charlie Craddock.

“I am alive today thanks to the centre and the £1m appeal to fund its expansion will double the amount of blood cancer patients that can be offered access to world-leading treatments, that are otherwise not available through standard care.”

Each crew that enters will comsist of 10 ‘paddlers’ and one ‘drummer’. Each team is being asked to raise at least £200 per team member, with a charitable entry fee of £500. Additional funds will also be raised on the day through activities, raffles and competitions at Brindleyplace with all funds going directly to Cure Leukaemia.

Places in the race are limited and all teams need to have registered their interest by April 28, 2017.

Firms can enter a team or find out more about this year’s race by emailing nathan.sanghera@gva.co.uk or visiting  www.brindleyplace.com.