Dragon Boat Racing is one of the world’s oldest sports, originating in China over 2,500 years ago. Teams of 11 race against each other in a series of qualifying timed races, culminating in a Grand Final race and the presentation of trophies and Champagne.
No experience is necessary, full training is given on the day. This video gives a feel for a dragon boat event.
Alongside the races, there are fun landside challenges, food and a bar too.
Teams or individuals can pay a basic entrance fee and raise sponsorship or buy a package which includes a sponsorship donation. Check out our different packages below.
Friday 16th May 2025, 11am – 3pm, Surrey Docks Watersports Centre, Rotherhithe (overlooking Canary Wharf).
Each team has a minimum of 11 people (10 rowers and a drummer who keeps the pace). Teams can bring up to 22 people and share the different heats if desired. You can enter as many teams as they wish. No prior experience or racing skill is required.
Each package includes your entry, a welcome glass of Prosecco (or orange juice) and pastries on arrival and a toasting glass of Prosecco for the medal ceremony.
All you need to decide is whether you want to raise your sponsorship separately or pay it upfront.
Entry fee £495 per team (that’s just £45 person)
Minimum fundraising commitment £1500 (or just £136 per person)
If you fundraise more than £2000, your team entry is free and we will return your entry fee to you.
£2000 for your team entry and no additional fundraising requirement.
This year LDN London are partnering with other learning disability charities to support them in their fundraising by participating in this event. If you would like a partner charity place, please select this package.
£495 for your team of 11, additional places £20.
If you are a smaller organisation or group of friends and don’t have quite enough people for a full team, email Katie on kmcdaniel@ldnlondon.org and we will work with you to find other team mates and become a new team of 11.
The funds raised will be used to run workshops where we help people gain long lasting life skills (including around health and mental health, budgeting, health, sustainability) and support people to gain confidence and independence. It will also mean we can reach more people with learning disabilities who are isolated and need help in London.
We support people with learning disabilities to be included in their community and have the opportunities that everyone should, whether in health care, getting a job or having a good home to live.
LDN London supports people with a wide range of learning disabilities. This includes people with mild and moderate learning disabilities, as well as people with profound and multiple disabilities. People we support have health conditions including Down’s Syndrome, Williams Syndrome, and many other learning disabilities and autism. Find out more about what a learning disability is and key terms on our resources page.
Where does the event take place?
On the River Thames at Surrey Docks Water Sports Centre, Rotherhithe, London SE16 7SX.
What do the races involve?
Each team has a minimum of 2 races, where they will race against other teams over a 200-metre racecourse. The fastest teams go through to the Grand Final.
The race requires the paddlers and drummer in each team to all work together. Personal fitness over this distance is not important as teamwork, paddle timing and a determination to be the best team is what wins the race!
How many boats can I book?
You can book as many as you like – places are sold on a first come, first served basis.
Are there any limitations on who can participate?
All team members must be aged 18 or over for this event.
All participants must be able to sit in the boat unaided. There is no requirement to be able to swim, but you should feel comfortable being on water whilst wearing a Personal Flotation Device (buoyancy aid).
Can I pay by invoice?
Certainly, email Emma on erussell@ldnlondon.org to register your interest and request payment by invoice.
Can I book a solo place?
If you are an individual, a smaller organisation or group of friends and don’t have quite enough people for a full team, email Katie on kmcdaniel@ldnlondon.org and we will work with you to find other team mates and become a new team of 11. Teams will be filled on a first come first served basis and we will ask you to book your place once we’ve completed your team.
How do we fundraise?
Our team will help you set up your online fundraising page with JustGiving. You can share this with friends, family and colleagues to sponsor you.
Your supporters will be able to add Gift Aid to their donations. Gift Aid is a government scheme that allows UK taxpayers to increase their donation by an extra 25%, without any extra cost to themselves.
Many companies match their employees’ fundraising, so do check what your company offers.
Our team are also here to help you at any point, with advice, top tips and fundraising ideas too.
Can I bring supporters with me?
You certainly can. Spectator places are free but will need booking. We will release spectator booking a little nearer the event.
Will there be food and drink available on the day?
Yes!
Our fabulous Mean Burger outlet will be selling teas and coffees all day, with gournet smash burgers and fries available at lunchtime. All food has a vegan and gluten free option.
A bar will also be onsite for waterside soft and alcoholic drinks.
There is the option to put a tab behind the bar and the food outlet for your team.
