Kentish Express Ashford & District
Launch for dragon boat race
Charities were out in force to announce the formal launch of the hottest adrenaline challenge of the summer – the KM Dragon Boat Race.
The good causes joined event organisers the KM Charity Team in calling for teams to get all fired up, book their boats and take to the water on Sunday, July 2.
Last year’s record-breaking event saw 40 teams make a splash for charity, raising more than £100,000.
Among the charity representatives laying down the challenge to raise much needed funds was Lauren Elphick of Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance.
She said: “It’s important that people support the KSS Air Ambulance because we are a life-saving charity, responding to people who have suffered trauma or serious medical emergencies.
“With a doctor-paramedic team operating 24 hours a day, we bring A&E directly to the scene with the ability to airlift patients to specialist hospitals, so we really do save lives.”
Good causes are being advised to register as charity partners as soon as possible to enable participants to raise money for them.
Teams of 11 will raise sponsorship money for their favourite charity by racing the dragon across the 250m course at Mote Park, Maidstone.
Charity supporters, friends and businesses will compete in three races throughout the day, with a final battle to determine the overall winner.
Squad members can conserve their energy by recruiting up to 17 people per team and taking turns to race.
Participants and spectators will be able to visit stalls, buy food and drink, or hire rowing boats or pedal boats at Mote Park Watersports Centre.
Book a boat at www. kmcharitychallenge.co.uk and use the code KMNEWS17 to receive a £50 discount.
The KM Dragon Boat Race is among more than a dozen adrenaline events staged throughout the year by the KM Charity Team, including the KM Bike Ride on April 23, KM Colour Run on June 11, and KM Charity Walk on June 25.
Businesses interested in getting involved with the KM Dragon Boat Race should call Dominic Comins on 0844 264 0291 or email dcomins@ thekmgroup.co.uk