Dragon Boat Race

Dragon Boat Racing is an exhilarating water-sport where teams of up to 11 people race in large dragon-shaped boats. Each team will compete in a series of races, aiming to post the fastest time in their round.

Each boat has a drummer beating time to keep the paddlers in unison, and a professional helmsperson to guide the boat (this will be one of Race the Dragon’s team). Each team will take part in a minimum of 3 races, where they paddle approximately 200m. The race takes about 1 – 1.5 minutes to complete.    

The top teams will then face off in the Grand Finale to battle for the title of Birmingham Hospice’s 2026 Dragon Boat Race Champion!

No previous experience or training is required – we’ll provide all the information and support you need on the day. So, whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a first-time rower, there’s a place for you. 

Ideally, each team should have 11 members: 10 paddlers and 1 drummer. However, you can participate with a team of between 7 people (min) up to 11 people (max). All participants must be at least 16 years old. 

If you have more than 11 people wanting to take part; you can create two teams or have 3 people as reserve racers – please just inform us if this is the case.

Fancy dress is definitely encouraged but you are reminded to ensure your chosen costume is practical and will not impede your ability to take part in the event.

The entry fee to participate is £110, with a fundraising target of £1,650 no matter how many team members you have.

No, this is a team event so you can’t take part as an individual. Ideally, each team should have 11 members: 10 paddlers and 1 drummer. However, you can participate with a team of between 7 people (min) up to 11 people (max). The minimum age to take part is 16 years old.

You don’t need any experience to take part and you will be provided with everything you need to take on this challenge.

This event is open to people of all ages, abilities and fitness levels. Please contact us if you’d like to discuss this further. 

You won’t need to train beforehand (unless you want to!) and you and your team will receive a health and safety briefing and participant advice on the day.

We recommend bringing a spare set of clothes and shoes as you may get wet!

There are 2 different options for registering and raising money :

Option A  Registration Fee: £110 per team (7 – 11 people)  

Minimum Fundraising Target: £1650  

Option B  Registration Fee: £1000 per team (7 – 11 people)  

Minimum Fundraising Target: £0, but you can still fundraise – every penny makes a difference!  

If you opt for Option A to fundraise £1,650 your team must commit to raise 50% by 25 May 2026.  Your fundraising will enables us to provide vital care and support to local people living with a terminal diagnosis, not just now but for many years to come.

Need help with fundraising? 

You will automatically be set up with an Enthuse fundraising page when you register. If you prefer to fundraise another way then just let us know.

You’ll be able to download your fundraising pack from your email confirmation when you sign up.

If you need some extra support with fundraising please do get in touch with the team at events@birminghamhospice.org.uk or call us on 0121 752 6150.

Your entry includes:

❤️ Dragon Boat during the event, along with buoyancy aids and paddles.

❤️ Safety boat, with qualified driver plus a health and safety briefing on the day.

❤️ A certificate per team

❤️ A trophy for first, second and third place teams

❤️ The winning team will get a bottle of fizz to celebrate and a medal for each team member.

Yes we encourage friends and family to come along and cheer on colleagues and loved ones. 

Brindleyplace is bustling with bars, restaurants and shops, there will be plenty of food, drinks, and activities for everyone to enjoy. 

The Dragon Boat races are organised by Race the Dragon on behalf of Birmingham Hospice. They are a trusted partner who organise races across the UK. You can find out more about them here – Dragon Boat Racing Festivals & Events UK – Race The Dragon  

We pride ourselves on inclusivity and welcome everyone at our events, so will always try to accommodate your needs.

Please get in touch so we can discuss this with you.  If you are pregnant or have any health issues, we advise you consult your doctor before signing up to the event. If you need assistance, you’re free to bring a carer or aide with you to the event free of charge; please just inform the Events Team before you sign up using the details above.  

No – when you sign up you will pick which day you wish to compete, either Friday or Saturday.