Returning after a 13-year hiatus, the Greenfingers Charity Dragon Boat race returned this weekend (Sunday 23^rd June) with a fiercely fought competition and a fun day out for all the family. With five teams battling it out, it was the Westland Warriors that walked away champions having beat off stiff competition from fellow finalists, Evergreen Miracle (G)rowers.

Basked in glorious sunshine at Grendon Lakes, Northamptonshire, the Greenfingers Charity Dragon Boat race saw teams from Westland, Evergreen, British Garden Centres, the AMES Companies and GIMA alongside the YPHA, come together to create a truly memorable event. With friends and families cheerleading from the lake’s edge, the teams enjoyed a crash course on how to row (and avoid capsizing!) before hitting the start line to see who would reign supreme.  

Racking up quicker and quicker race times, it came down to two industry goliaths to see who would be quicker on the water. A very close call, the Westland Warriors just pipped the Miracle (G)rowers, reaching the finish line in 65.06 seconds, with the Miracle (G)rowers following just 0.39 seconds later.

The day concluded with a prize giving session, with the Westland Warriors enjoying a prosecco shower as they celebrated their win. Guests and participants also enjoyed a raffle which included prizes kindly donated by FarPlants, Westland, British Garden Centres, plus Cotton Traders.

Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising and Communications at the Greenfingers Charity, said: “What a superb day yesterday was. The weather was kind but more importantly, everyone came together to have the best time. All day the air was filled with laughter, comradery and friendly competition. It was just brilliant! Of course, the day also helped to raise funds so that we can continue to build even more gardens in 2025 and beyond, and for this we will be forever grateful. We never take it for granted that so many are willing to support our work so from the bottom of our hearts, thank you!

“Thank you so everyone that took part, cheered on the rowers, and those that donated to our raffle. Thanks also to the teams at Grendon Lakes and New Wave events who helped make the day a reality. Same time next year!”

If you are interested in any future Greenfingers Charity events, including the forthcoming Wing Walk (3^rd September) and Charity Fundraising Dinner (28^th November) please reach out to the team for more information by emailing linda@greenfingerscharity.org.uk

In the meantime, you can also follow all the latest updates from Greenfingers on social media - @Greenfingerscharity on Instagram and LinkedIn, https://www.facebook.com/Greenfingerscharity/ and @GreenfingersCha on Twitter.

Photos by Paul Webb