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Dragon boats racing towards new cancer treatments

Newcastle's Dragon Boat Race is an annual event hosted by NE1, which sees adventurous teams paddle down the River Tyne in dragon-themed boats raising funds for charity.

This year’s event is the largest to date and will be helping to raise funds for The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, part of Newcastle Hospitals Charity.

The charity partnership is particularly timely, as the foundation is fundraising to complete construction of the £30m Sir Bobby Robson Institute, a world-leading cancer trials hub for the region housed at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle.

Construction began this month and support is crucial to raise the final funds to complete and fully equip the Institute by 2027.

A huge variety of businesses are involved in the Dragon Boat Race, which already has 54 boats confirmed meaning over 900 participants will take to the water across two days.

Taking place on 25th and 26th September, the Dragon Boat Race has become a popular, competitive and fun team building event for businesses and organisations across Newcastle and beyond.

That teamwork is something that especially appeals to Kate Bradley, The Sir Bobby Robson Institute Campaign Director.

Kate says: “Teamwork was vital to Sir Bobby during his career and continues to underpin everything that The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation does to this day.

“We’ve no doubts that Sir Bobby would be fascinated by the Dragon Boat Race and greatly appreciate the support that both the event and all its participants are giving us.”

Shola Ameobi, who played under Sir Bobby at Newcastle United, was on hand earlier this year to help announce the new charity partnership alongside NE1 Chief Executive, Stephen Patterson.

Ben Whitfield, Director of Communications at NE1 says: “We know that this is an extremely important year for the foundation and it means a lot to us to be involved in supporting fundraising for the Sir Bobby Robson Institute.

“Boats sold out quicker than ever this year and we have major law firms, insurance brokers, transport providers, cultural institutions and public sector organisations signed up to take part.

“A fantastic cross-section of the regional business community will be coming together on the Quayside to lend their support to The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.”

At this year’s event, as well as the excitement on the water, the Quayside will be filled with crowds cheering on the competitors alongside a range of free, family-friendly activities on dry land.

Visitors can enjoy crafts, live performers, face painting, and other entertainment throughout the day. Racers will also be able to join in these activities between their races, making it a fantastic event for participants and spectators.

All boats have been sold for this year’s race but people can still get involved and support the racing by sponsoring and fundraising for The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. For more details contact: kitty.brown@newcastlene1ltd.com

For Sir Bobby Robson Institute fundraising enquiries please contact Kate Bradley Kate.bradley14@nhs.net or call 0191 213 7235.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Andy Atkinson .