Dragon Boat Tournament 2008

 Welcome to the Lytham Round Table Dragon Boat Tournament 2008. Following the huge success of the event last year we thought we just had to do it again. Within this entry pack you should find everything you need to join in what promises to be a fantastic event.

 What is Dragon Boat Racing? Dragon boat racing is a form of boat racing that originated in China. Dragon Boats themselves are long boats that seat between 14 and 18 paddlers together with a drummer. At the head of the boat there is typically an ornately carved dragon head. Races typically involve between 2 and 4 boats over a 200 meter stretch of water. The picture above gives a good impression of what a race is like (N.B. for more information visit http://www.dragonessence.org). Video of last year's event can be seen here

 Why is the tournament being held? The purpose of the event is to raise money for local charities. Last year we raised over £7,000 for the St Anne’s RNLI station. We will be supporting the RNLI once again this year as well as a number of other local charities. A few facts about the RNLI:

 ¨     The RNLI gets no Government support

¨     The RNLI saved 8,104 lives nationally

¨     It costs £1,000 per annum to train a crew member

¨     It costs £1,500 to equip a crewmember

¨     2006 marks the 120th anniversary of the Mexico disaster. During this rescue attempt by crew from St Anne’s, 28 men lost their lives.

 In addition to supporting this very worthy cause we also hope that the event will be a huge amount of fun and excitement for both participants and spectators alike.

 When and where is it? The tournament will be held on Sunday 2^nd September 2007 at Fairhaven Lake (see below). The precise timings of races will be forwarded to entrants prior to the day.

Fairhaven Lake is about a 15 minute drive from the end of the M55 and has ample on-site parking.

 Ansdell and Fairhaven train station is about a 5 minute walk from Fairhaven Lake.

 Access to the lake area for the disabled is very good.

How do I enter? To enter the tournament you need to pull together a team of between 15 and 25 (minimum age 12).  However, remember that boats carry between 14 and 18 paddlers plus a drummer. If you can’t quite make the minimum numbers then let us know and we will try and top up your crew.

 The entry fee for a team (regardless of number) is £400. All profit from these fees and other sources of revenue (i.e. public donations on the day, funfair, advertising etc.) will go directly to local charities. The primary beneficiary will be the St Anne’s RNLI station. They will use the money for things such as training (e.g. £1000 to train a crew member per annum) and equipment (e.g. £1500 to equip a crew member). Remember that the RNLI receive no government funding.

 Once you have your team then you will need to forward a completed entry form plus £100 deposit to secure your place. These are required by the 31st August 2008.  The outstanding balance of £300 must then be paid no later than two weeks prior to the event (14th September 2007).

 Once entered your team is guaranteed a minimum of 3 races.

 What else is going on at the tournament? Fairhaven Lake is a great venue all year round with plenty to do for all ages. As well as the following year round facilities we aim to organise a fun-fair and other entertainment.

 ·        Children’s playground.

·        Tennis courts

·        Bowling greens

·        Boating

·        Trim trail

·        Skate board / bike park.

·        Cafe

 So why not bring family / friends along and make a day of it….

 Entry Form & Sponsorship Form