Cork companies urged splash out for River Lee dragon boat race

Cork's community boatyard is calling on local companies and groups to take to the water next month for a spectacular event in the heart of the city.

Meitheal Mara is inviting firms and organisations to take part in its annual Dragon Boat Challenge, which will take place this year on Saturday, April 27.

The banks and quays of the River Lee are expected to echo with the sound of drums, the splashing of paddles and the roar of the dragons as 16 crews will compete to become this year’s champions.

Dragon's drum

Starting opposite the site of the former R&H Hall, crews of 17 per boat will race 250m to the finish line at Lapp’s Quay, powered by the beat of the dragon’s drum.

The race’s organisers say the Dragon Boat Challenge is a fun, sociable, and colourful event, and no previous experience is necessary.

Pre-race training will take place for crews in the two- week lead-up to the main event, giving participants a chance to warm up their muscles and exercise their vocal chords.

Meitheal Mara, Cork’s community boatyard and nationally accredited training centre, is dedicated to fostering and promoting maritime culture and seamanship through traditional currach and wooden boat building skills. In particular, providing training and development to those who are sometimes at risk of social exclusion, who are recovering from addiction, and those living with disabilities.

Because Meitheal Mara is a registered charity, contributions towards its event are tax-deductible offering companies an opportunity to demonstrate their support.

Registration is €680 per team of 17, which works out at €40 per person and includes the cost of the training session.

For further information, contact dragons@meithealmara.ie or telephone 021 4847673. Places are filled on a first-come, first-served basis so early registration is encouraged.