The 11th edition of the Tonbridge Lions Dragon Boat Race took place on Sunday, September 1, 2024, drawing an enthusiastic crowd to witness 28 local teams battle it out on a thrilling 250-metre course on the River Medway. With participants ranging from schools and companies to charities, the event showcased both seasoned paddlers and eager newcomers, all sharing in the excitement and camaraderie of the race.
Each team, composed of 16 paddlers and one drummer, competed in three heats, with their best times determining their eligibility for the finals. The top three teams then raced for the coveted medals and the glory of winning the Tonbridge Lions Dragon Boat Race.
The winners of this year’s event were the well-known competitors, The Boars and Oars from Tonbridge School, who took the top spot. They were followed by Declan’s Dragons from Hospice in the Weald, with Mums and Dads Army from Dan Alexandre Design securing third place. The Best Dressed Team award was claimed by The Scholar-ship from Weald of Kent Grammar School, who, despite capsizing and losing some belongings, added a splash of fun to the day’s festivities.
The event was a massive hit, attracting thousands of spectators and serving as a crucial fundraising platform for local charities. In addition to the thrilling races, attendees enjoyed a variety of stalls from local organisations, providing a platform for community engagement and fundraising.
The success of the event was due in large part to the dedication of numerous volunteers, including Tonbridge Lions members and Friends of Lions, whose support ensured everything ran smoothly. The day’s highlights were beautifully captured by the photography agency Twothirtyfive, with photos available on the Dragon Boat Race Facebook page.
For those interested in participating in next year’s event or seeking further information, please contact dragonboatrace@tonbridgelions.org.
Photographs show the winning team and the thrilling finish of the final.
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