Dragon Boat Racing 2025

Join us for the ultimate summer team adventure

Are you ready to make a splash and build unbreakable team bonds? Join us at Island Harbour for an unforgettable day of Dragon Boat Racing, where speed, teamwork and excitement take centre stage. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, this high-energy challenge is perfect for everyone!

Register your team here

Sponsored by

How it works.

Form your team and get ready to compete in three electrifying qualifying heats, each lasting 200 metres. Show off your skills and your team spirit as you face off against other challengers. The fastest teams will then race in the Grand Final for a shot at the top three spots, with engraved trophies and medals awaiting the ultimate champions!

There will be a full PA system with music and running commentary, a rolling scoreboard for all to see, and plenty of food and drink for those spectating!

No experience needed.

Whether you’re an expert paddler or a complete newbie, don’t worry — our friendly racing crew will guide you every step of the way. You don’t need to know how to swim and you won’t get soaked. Just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to have fun!

Why Dragon Boat Racing?

With a rich history dating back over 2,500 years in China, Dragon Boat Racing is one of the world’s most thrilling and oldest sports. This August, we’re bringing this epic event to the Isle of Wight — so don’t miss your chance to be part of the action and race on the stunning waters of Island Harbour!

Date: Saturday 30th August 2025
Location: Island Harbour
Registration fee: £330 (£30 per team member)
Minimum fundraising target: £1,100 (£100 per team member)

So what are you waiting for? Gather your team, set your sights on victory and help raise funds for a great cause. Spaces are limited, so sign up today and get ready for the ride of your life!

Register your interest here

Please read our FAQs below and Terms and Conditions below before registering. Please note this event is hosted by Race the Dragon on behalf of Wessex Cancer Support.

A full list of registered teams can be found here:

Biscoes Solicitors
Datum Electronics
IW Round Table
P C Consultants
Robin Hill
Snap Fitness IOW
Solent Cruises
Thalia Waste Management
W H Brading
WRS

Dragon Boat Racing 2025 FAQs 

How many to a team?
A team is made up of 10 rowers and 1 drummer (11 individuals in total). 

What’s included in the registration?
Entry to a minimum of 3 races plus all equipment needed. 

Is there a minimum age?
Participants must be 12 years old or above. 

Are there any physical requirements?
Participants must be able to safely sit on a boat bench unaided, follow instructions, and be fit enough to row 200 metres. 

What if I don’t have a full team?
The minimum recommended is 8 rowers and 1 drummer. 

What if one of my team is sick on the day?
Don’t worry, if one of your team members is sick the race crew will help find you a volunteer rower.

What time is the event?
Those registered to take part should arrive at mid-day on the day. The event will then start from 1pm onwards. The event is expected to last the rest of the afternoon and possibly early evening. 

What should I wear?
That’s entirely up to you! You can even wear fancy dress, though we do recommend trainers for racing and to avoid jeans as these can become heavy when wet. Flip-flops, heels etc won’t be allowed for racing. 

Is my registration transferable?
While we don’t offer refunds, if one of your team cannot make it, you are welcome to give that place to someone else to join your team. If you wish to do this you must let us know at least 48 hours prior to race day by emailing fundraising@wessexcancer.org.uk with the full name, phone number and email of the new team member. 

Can people come and watch the race?
Absolutely, we encourage spectators to cheer you on and will have plenty of space for them to watch the races unfold ashore! 

Is there anywhere to purchase food and drink?
Yes. We will have options for you and your spectators on the day. 

Do I need to raise sponsorship?
Yes, we are asking each team to raise £1,100 sponsorship which works out at £100 per person in your team. 

What if we are struggling to reach our fundraising target?
Please do get in touch with us if you’re worried the challenge is fast approaching and you’ve still got a way to go until you meet your fundraising target. We will help with some ideas to reach your target and offering advice on sponsorship. Please note we would need you to have reached £880 by 30th July 2025 to secure your place on the day. 

Terms and conditions

Each team needs to raise a minimum of 75% of the overall sponsorship total by 30 July 2025, with the full £1100 minimum sponsorship raised by 27 September 2025. Failure to meet this target may result in your place(s) being at risk. 

To respond to the charity’s communications about your fundraising for this event.

Should the minimum fundraising amounts not be met or communications not responded to, you understand the charity will remove you from the event, without a refund.

To be contacted by and on behalf of Wessex Cancer Support about the event.

Tickets booked (including those purchased on behalf of another) are non-refundable and non-transferrable to either a later date or alternative event if you’re unable to attend. These override any terms and conditions outlined by the third-party event hosts in relation to refunds or transferable credit.

All participants taking part do so at their own risk. In no event shall the organiser (charity), its suppliers and/or the venue be liable for any injuries, loss, or damages whatsoever. 

Photos and videos taken at the event may be posted on our website, social media sites or any other site we deem suitable. All participants confirm that they are happy for their names and any footage or photographs taken by, or on behalf of, the organiser during the event, to be used to publicise future events and Wessex Cancer Support. Should special dispensation be required, it is the responsibility of the participants to inform the organiser of such requirements.  

To respect all volunteers, members of staff from Wessex Cancer Support and the event venue. Physical or verbal abuse towards anyone will not be tolerated.

The event organiser reserves the right to update its terms and conditions in relation to the event at any time prior to the event. All participants will be provided with any updated terms and conditions in advance of the event as part of the event day information or on the day of the event. 

If you have any further questions, please contact the IOW Fundraising Team on 01983 655038 or at fundraising@wessexcancer.org.uk.