On Sunday 9th May the East Anglian Dragon Boat Festival returns to Nicholas Everitt Park, Oulton Broad in Lowestoft for what promises to be the best year yet!

The Festival is a not-to-be-missed opportunity for companies, organizations, clubs and groups of friends to test themselves in a totally different way, whilst promoting their organisation to a large local audience and raising money for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) or the charity of their choice.

East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices provides vital support for children and young people in the area with life-threatening illnesses, and they offer help varying from music therapy to bereavement counselling. Not only will your entry help support such a worthwhile charity, it is also a fantastic team building opportunity – what better way to really get to know what makes your colleagues and competitors tick!

Teams of up to 11 people are invited to take part in the spectacular racing, all the dragon boats and racing equipment are provided and no previous experience is required – just plenty of team spirit and enthusiasm!

Up to 50 teams from all over East Anglia are expected to take part in this year’s Festival, many of them new and many returning annually to join in the fun. One of the companies taking part for the first time last year was the UK’s largest self catering holiday company, Hoseasons Holidays, which has its head office in Lowestoft. Such was the enthusiasm from the staff for joining in last time around that the team had more crew volunteers than places – it was a case of a paddle off to select the first team!

Other keen Festival supporters include solicitors, Birketts LLP, who have offices in Norwich and Ipswich. Victoria Cole, Marketing Co-ordinator, comments: “We find taking part in this event great for team building, as well as raising the company profile and getting our name out there. The staff enjoy a great day out, whilst knowing they are making a difference to EACH by their charity fundraising”. With trophies not only for the top three crews but also for the top mixed crew, the best-dressed crew and the crew that raises the most money for EACH, there really is something for every team to aim for!

There will also be plenty of activities on the bankside to entertain teams and spectators between races including Chinese lion dancing, funfair, street entertainers, children’s activities, bar and catering.

For further information and to make sure you are on the starting line on 9th May please call Gable Events today to request an entry form on 01780 470718 or visit www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk/eastanglia