For the past 17 years, York Rotary has hosted their annual dragon boat race, raising nearly £1.2 million for local charities. This year is race is still going ahead, but with a twist.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions the Dragon Boat race is unable to be held in its normal fashion. However, not to be held back, York Rotary is hosting a “virtual challenge” to raise much-needed funds for charity.
For the past 17 years, York Rotary has hosted their annual dragon boat race, raising nearly £1.2 million for local charities.
York Rotary is challenging you to ‘paddle’ your virtual dragon boat 250 metres down the ‘River Ouse’.
Mike Fieldsend from York Rotary explained: “We use the term ‘paddle’ very lightly.
“We want people to get creative and use their imaginations to achieve the virtual equivalent of paddling 250 metres, or 50 strokes.
“You could be paddling sitting on a line of chairs using rolled umbrellas for paddles, sitting in wheelbarrows with spades for paddles or even get the paddling pool out. It’s completely up for interpretation.
“We want people to get creative and use their imaginations to achieve the virtual equivalent of paddling 250 metres, or 50 strokes.”
“You can do the challenge by yourself or get family and friends involved! It’s all about having a laugh whilst raising money for the York Teaching Hospital Charity at the same time.”
The idea is that all participants raise £50 or more which will go to the York Teaching Hospital Charity, which is this year’s chosen cause.
The charity supports the dedicated NHS staff who have been working hard during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The funds raised from the virtual boat race will go towards creating a new outdoor well-being area at York Hospital, providing a relaxing area for the staff.
The funds raised from the virtual boat race will go towards creating a new outdoor well-being area at York Hospital, providing a relaxing area for the staff.
For more information into how you can get involved, head over to York Rotary website, where you can find more information.
You can also monitor the boat’s progress down the River Ouse as more people join in with the challenge.
Post any photos/ videos on social media using #virtualdragon – and tag @RotaryClubYork.
