Applications start to flood in for river festival raft race
APPLICATIONS have started to come in for the popular raft race as part of next month’s Carmarthen River Festival, which returns for the first time in three years.
Organisers said they have received entries from local clubs and organisations for the iconic race on the afternoon of Saturday, June 11.
The festival returns to the River Towy and the town’s Quay for the first time since 2019 as the Covid-19 pandemic saw the event shelved over the past two years.
River Festival chairman Phil Grice said: “The cost of entry is £30 per raft and organisations may retain any funds collected in excess of £30 from their sponsors. There will also be an inflatable race again this year. Application forms and the £2 entry fee will be available on the day. Prizes will be available for best-dressed inflatable and first across the line.”
As well as the races, there will be a free children’s funfair and a host of other river and non-river activities, as well as refreshments.
The raft race has long been a highlight of the festival, with the teams often taking to the water in wacky and innovatively designed rafts. The festival starts at 2pm and will run into the evening.
It has been staple of the town’s summer calendar for many years and organisers are hoping for bumper crowds in June to mark its return after the difficult times of the pandemic.
To enter the raft race, contact Jenny Fox at Carmarthen Town Council.
Mr Grice said he and the Carmarthen Riverside Association are delighted with the number of local businesses who have agreed to support the festival and added: “Association members will be calling in on local bodies in the town over coming weeks with application forms for the raft race, which may also be obtained from Jenny Fox at Carmarthen Town Council on 01267 235199.”