Time to Enter the Dragon!

ANTRIM Lough Shore Park will be buzzing on Sunday, June 23 as Antrim Borough Council and children’s cancer charity CLIC Sargent host a dragon boat race on the Six Mile Water River to raise money for families affected by childhood cancer.

Groups of friends, family and colleagues from Antrim are being sought to form teams of between 14-17 people to compete in the adrenaline fuelled event. Dragon boat racing is a fantastic team building event and no previous rowing experience is necessary. Each crew member is asked to pay a £5 entry fee and raise a minimum of £40 in sponsorship.

Christine McClune, Fundraising Manager at CLIC Sargent, said: “Dragon boat racing is a lot of fun, teams who take part will have a great day out and help to raise funds for children and young people with cancer at the same time. All of the money raised from the event will go towards our Homes from Home appeal to build two self catering properties within walking distance of the main Belfast hospitals for children and their families to stay at free of charge while undergoing treatment for cancer. Anyone interested in entering a team should get in touch with me as soon as possible!”

As well as being able to watch the dragon boat race, there will be lots of fun activities for the whole family to take part in including a dragon treasure hunt, the Cool FM radio roadshow, animals from Clementsmount Mobile Farm and free dragon themed arts and crafts activities for children. One of the highlights of the event will be a Chinese dance display. Children are encouraged to enter into the spirit of the day and come along in dragon costume and prizes will be awarded for the most imaginative outfit.

Karen Steele, Development Manager (Visitor Servicing) with Antrim Borough Council said: “The Dragon Boat Race will be a fun-filled day out for all the family, with teams competing against the clock and we are delighted to be working in partnership with CLIC Sargent. This is a fantastic opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy a great day out and for competitors to enjoy a spirit of comradeship with their team mates, all in aid of a good cause!”

CLIC Sargent provides clinical, practical and emotional support for children and young people with cancer, and their families, from the point of diagnosis.

All proceeds from the dragon boat race will go towards the Homes from Home appeal. On average, families in Northern Ireland have to travel 95 miles, up to five times a week to access the cancer treatment they need for their sick child. CLIC Sargent are aiming to build two Homes from Home close to the two main Belfast hospitals so they can ease this financial and emotional burden on families at an already difficult time.

To enter your dragon boat team get in touch with Christine McClune on 02890 725780 or email [email protected].

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