One of the most spectacular and entertaining competitive events in aid of charity in Leeds is getting the backing of some of the biggest names in the city’s financial and business community.
Over 30 firms including Carlsberg, DLA Piper, Grant Thornton, Hammonds, KPMG, GE Money, Town Centre Securities, PricewaterhouseCoopers and Yorkshire Water are entering teams for the annual Leeds Community Foundation Dragon Boat Race to be held at Clarence Dock on Saturday June 26.
The organisers, Leeds Community Foundation, are delighted with the response from the Leeds business community to enter and say that with six weeks to go there are just places for six more teams.
Each 40ft long boat is powered by a team of 16 paddlers, and a drummer to keep time, and there will be over 100 races during the course of the day. Sponsorship monies raised by the teams will go towards the Leeds Community Foundation who support over 3,000 community groups and small charities working in some of the most disadvantaged parts of Leeds.
Leeds Community Foundation Event Manager, Amanda Wingfield says:
“Our aim this year is to exceed the £30,000 raised last year and there has been a fantastic commitment from Leeds companies to continue supporting their community, despite the current financial climate. The race is open to any Leeds based firm or organisation and we have room for just five more teams.”
“Not only is it in a great cause, but it’s a really fun and action-packed day. This a boat race with a difference - Leeds style – plenty of colour and drama with a wacky variety of teams in fancy dress – from zombies and pirates to mermaids.”
The Yorkshire Evening Post is the media partner for Leeds Community Foundation and sponsors for the Dragon Boat Race this year are Clarence Dock, keen to see the waterside develop even further and support grassroots groups in Leeds and British Waterways, whose enthusiasm and logistical support make this event happen.
Any firm interested in entering or sponsoring a team should contact Amanda Wingfield on 01132422426 or email amanda@leedscommunityfoundation.org.uk