WOKING & Sam Beare Hospice is on course for a record fundraising total for its spectacular Dragon Boat Races and Family Fun Day at Goldsworth Park Lake last Sunday.

Although the monies are still being counted, the indications are that the popular community event has been a roaring success.

Pimm’s sold out by 2.30pm, despite being restocked, its devotees clearly heeding the advice of the race announcer on the PA system to stay hydrated in the warm sunshine.

It was soon joined in putting up the “out of stock” sign by the tombola, and the plants and cakes stalls.

Plenty of other stalls did well in the fine weather, with refreshments including a barbecue, noodle bar and crepes, plus face-painting, hook a duck, lucky dip and raffle.

To launch the dragon boat races, first held in 2014, the Chinese Association performed a traditional dragon awakening ceremony, with incense lit and eyes painted on the boats by Sue Cook and the chairman of Woking & Sam Beare Hospice, Tim Stokes. 

The races have been held in memory of Sue’s son, Kris, since 2015, and the sponsorship of Trident Honda Ottershaw, represented at the weekend by Trident Otters, began the following year.

Twenty-one teams competed across the lake, working their way through to the grand final. Close races, imaginatively named crews – including Rowing Me, Rowing You Aha, Odin’s Wet Whiskers and All Oar Nothing – added to the general air of fun, with record numbers of spectators enjoying the entertainment around the lake.

A four-boat final was won by F3 UK, who edged out Team Natta, Odin’s Wet Whiskers and Derek’s Dragons in a pulsating finish.

“It was a privilege to take part in such a great event. This enabled us to do something as a team whilst supporting the hospice, and we had an amazing day,” said Steve Parsley for the F3 UK crew.

“Last year, F3 UK were spectators at the event and it inspired them to compete this year,” said Kerry Gibb on behalf of the hospice. “They are a fit bunch, used to doing half marathons and Tough Mudders, so they always stood a good chance of winning!”

The best fancy dress prize went to Pete’s Pirates, who caught the eye of the crowd with their swashbuckling outfits.

“A big thank you to all the teams, volunteers, staff, local community and Trident Honda for helping to make this event the amazing success that we saw on Sunday,” said Marian Imrie, CEO Woking & Sam Beare Hospice.

Richard Roberts, managing director of Trident Honda Ottershaw, added:  “We are once again delighted in 2023 to be the main sponsor of the WSBH Dragon Boat race.

“Such a fabulous day’s entertainment for all participants and spectators, combined with raising money for such a fabulous cause.”

In another splendidly generous gesture, McDonalds, who have a strong presence in Woking, presented a cheque for £5,500.

To enter a team in the 2024 Dragon Boat Races, contact [email protected] for more details. For more information on the work of the hospice and to donate, visit www.wsbh.org.uk.