a huge success

The Shakespeare Hospice is once again celebrating a hugely successful Dragon Boat Race event, which has seen over £34,000 raised to support its vital community services.

24 teams of differing backgrounds and abilities took to the River Avon for the event in a bid to become 2023 Dragon Boat Race champions. The competition culminated in an exhilarating six-boat final, where Coventry-based company, The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), emerged as the victors, beating their nearest rivals by 0.03 seconds.

Bridget Richards, Events & Community Fundraiser at The Shakespeare Hospice, expressed her gratitude, saying, "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."

Annie Kerwin, Senior Research Engineer at the MTC, said: “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!”

The Shakespeare Hospice would like to extend its appreciation to all the teams, sponsors, volunteers, and spectators who contributed to the success of this event. Your generosity and enthusiasm have made a profound impact on the lives of those we serve.

For more information about The Shakespeare Hospice and how you can continue to support their vital work, please visit TheShakespeareHospice.org.uk.