Plans announced for popular Dragon Boat race on River Tyne - Dates, times and more
Newcastle’s Dragon Boat races return to the Tyne this month, and organisers have announced more on what to expect.
Now in its fifth edition, the event has been organised by events group NE1 and has has happened every year since, with the exception of 2020.
The Quayside will be transformed into a vibrant festival of colour, culture and competition, drawing thousands of spectators to enjoy one of the biggest spectacles in the area’s annual events calendar.
The action takes place on the River Tyne between the Tyne and Millennium Bridges, with dry land activities for supporters and spectators to enjoy.
Races will take place throughout Saturday, September 27.
More than 450 competitors will take to the water for a series of fiercely contested heats starting at 10am, with the fastest teams meeting in the finals around 3 pm. The presentation ceremony will take place on dry land at 4pm.
Teams of between 11-16 racers crew the long, narrow dragon canoes, paddling in pairs to the beat of a drum positioned at the boat’s helm, which sets the rhythm for the races.
Teams will be raising money for this year’s chosen charity, the Great North Children’s Hospital at the RVI. Last year’s event raised over £20,000 for the official charity the Newcastle Hospitals Trust, with additional money raised for other local charities.
The day begins a 9.30am with a ceremonial lion dance, performed by Newcastle Kung Fu Club.
Rachel Fenwick, Head of Marketing and Events at NE1 Ltd said: “What an amazing summer we’ve had, and NE1’s Dragon Boat Race is the grand finale. This spectacular, colourful and high-energy event will be enjoyed not just by the racers on the river but by the 10,000+ supporters we expect to pack the Quayside.