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The annual Osgoldcross & Elmet Dragon Boat Challenge was a roaring success at the new venue, Knottingley Amphitheatre, on Jubilee Bank Holiday Monday 4th June.

The annual Osgoldcross & Elmet Dragon Boat Challenge was a roaring success at the new venue, Knottingley Amphitheatre, on Jubilee Bank Holiday Monday 4th June.

Despite heavy rain the day before, the Monday was bright and perfect for racing. Nine teams entered for the races, mainly local to Knottingley, but some from Selby, Leeds and Hull.

The Bagley Babes team from Stolzle Flaconnage surged ahead to victory in the Clash of the Glassworks against Allied Glass Vikings, while HSBC's Oarsome team slapped down the competition from First Direct's Digital Dragons in the Battle of the Banks.

The final was a very close race between Bagley Babes and Selby RUFC Swans with Bagley Babes just edging the Swans by 0.45 seconds.

'Race  the Dragon' organised the racing brilliantly, looked after the safety on the water and provided music and a PA system which really added to the enjoyment of competitors and spectators. Their friendly professional approach is a credit to them.

With the new venue right in the centre of Knottingley, we hoped that the residents would come to see the racing and enjoy the day. We were not disappointed! There was a constant flow of people all day which created a fantastic atmosphere in the Amphitheatre.

The Lady Mayor of Wakefield, Elaine Blezard, was persuaded to 'Bless the Boats' by assisting in the ancient ceremony of 'Awakening the Dragon' by dabbing the eyes of the boat's dragon heads and scattering rice over the boats and teams.

The Knottingley Angels Cheerleaders performed in the morning and in the afternoon to the delight of the crowd.

 

We estimate that about £5000 will have been raised for local and national charities :-

Childline, Cancer Research and Macmillan Nurses.

Prince of Wales Hospice, Dr Jackson Cancer Fund, De Lacy Academy Kenya Project and Old Quarry Adventure Playground.

We are very greatful for grants received from the Health and Community Development Grants Fund and Wakefield Healthy Activity Grants which made the event possible.

Next year's Challenge will be held, at the Knottingley Amphitheatre, on Bank Holiday Monday   27th May 2013.

Want to see more photo's then visit us on facebook             http://www.facebook.com/groups/281145508572014/

or to enter a team e-mail osgolddragon@aol.com.