Watton Rotary enters Ely Raft Race

Since 1978, Ely Rotary Club has organised the Ely Aquafest on and alongside the river Great Ouse. Over the years the event has grown into the region's premier water festival. What began with just a few boat races and a small crowd has evolved into a full day of aquatic competition, with performers, food vendors and community activities.

Watton Rotary Club this year decided to enter the  raft race, in the knowledge  that all proceeds will go towards supporting local community projects and providing essential assistance to those in need. We brought with us our Shelterboat, not to compete, but to demonstrate how we have raised considerable funds for the charity Shelterbox, with some ingenuity from one of our members.

The day itself was disappointingly  wet, with a lot of heavy showers of rain, all the more annoying for the organisers, considering the area  has been in a virtual drought for 3 months. However that didn't really seem to affect the turnout, as hundreds of people came along to enjoy, and take part in the Aquafest.

Our raft, built by a team including members Neil Thomas and Paul Weatherill, basically comprised  two large oil drums tied together, with a platform fixed to them. The raft was propelled by a group of 4 rowers, each equipped with a paddle and life jacket. The raft had not been on water before the day of the race, so we didn't really know if it would  even stay afloat, let alone support the weight of our rowers. Our optimism, or lack of it, was reflected in the rafts name. We christened it 'Titanic'. 

Fortunately it did stay afloat, and move in the general direction required. A special mention must go to our members Ivan and Paul Chubbock, of  Ivan Chubbock Garage Services, who generously sponsored the raft.

Six rafts competed in the senior  race, and our raft, piloted by Neil, Joe, Peter and Kevin finished a creditable 4th, which we were all very pleased with, considering this was our first attempt. Discussions as to whether we will return next year with a faster raft are not yet completed.