The SHAKESPERE’S Hospice’s annual Dragon Boat Race made a spectacular splash on Sunday (September 21)
A total of 28 teams took to the water for a day of fierce but friendly competition — all in support of the hospice’s vital work.
Hundreds of spectators lined the riverside to cheer on local businesses, clubs, and community groups competing in this year’s event. After a series of heats and semi-finals, six teams made it to the grand final — and the finish was one for the history books.
In one of the closest races ever seen at the event, all six teams crossed the finish line within just 0.55 seconds of each other. But it was Stratford Leg-Ends — a local team made up of friends, co-workers and sport enthusiasts and four members of the same family, who narrowly clinched the title.
Team captain Wayne Weatherhead said: “I honestly can’t believe we won. This was our second year of taking part and we didn’t even make the final last year, so to come back and take first place feels incredible. This event means so much to me as my mother was cared for by The Shakespeare Hospice. Knowing that so much money has been raised for the hospice makes the victory even sweeter.”
The Dragon Boat Race is one of The Shakespeare Hospice’s most important annual fundraisers, helping to provide palliative and supportive care to patients and their loved ones across south Warwickshire. This year’s event has already raised at least £40,000, with donations still coming in.
