Dragon Boat Regatta

The annual COSMIC Dragon Boat Regatta will return to the Regent’s Canal for its eleventh year. The first starting pistol will sound at 17:00 on Thursday 26th July at St. Mary’s Bridge where traditional Chinese Dragon Boats will race for 100 metres until the finish line at Paddington Basin.

In association with Merchant Square and Paddington Central, people from all over the area will come together for this friendly competition to help raise money for the local Children of St Mary’s Intensive Care [COSMIC] charity. The much-needed funds will go towards helping support the families of children being treated on the ward.

The sport itself has a 2,000-year-old Chinese legacy, with each boat holding 10 rowers and 1 drummer to help the crew maintain their rhythm. With prizes including ‘Best Dressed’ and ‘Fastest Team’, it’s a great day out for all the family to watch 20 boats race over five heats and cheer on all the volunteers taking part – many in fancy dress.