Tomorrow at 11:00–13:45 Hythe Waterfront Hythe, SO45 6 Southampton The Great Waterside Raft Race has been held for 26 years and is run to raise money for the RNLI. This year it has raised nearly £6,000. It is one of the few raft races that are held on the sea, which adds an element of excitement not found on river races. The course is set out between Hythe Marina and Hythe Pier and is always held between the 2 high tides unique to the Solent area. This year there were six races starting with the Decorated Rafts Race, with a brand new trophy going to the winners. Next was the Formula 1 Race, a longer course just for fast racing rafts. This was followed by the popular Ladies Race. Next was the hotly contested the Pub Race, with other teams trying to take the ’handpump’ like trophy away from Ebernezer’s who have won this trophy from its introduction. Fifth was the Junior Race for 17′s and under. The final exciting race of the day was the big event, the Handicap Race, a race for all rafts, which has a staggered start so any raft could win. Safety rib for the day was provided by Aquawaves (aquawaves) a local company that provides boat training, charter and maintenance. Both ribs for the local Calshot Station were also on hand to provide further assistance if necessary. Rafts can be entered for more than one race using different teams where appropriate. Apart from the races, where there are trophies and medals to be won, there are other trophies for ‘Best Presented’ and ‘Most Ingenious’ rafts, plus ‘Best Overall Effort’. All these trophies are awarded on the day, with the trophy for most sponsorship being presented later in the year at an appropriate venue. The day is aimed at being a fun day out, to be enjoyed by spectators as well as participants. There are side stalls and fun fair, drinks and BBQ provided so contestants and visitors can enjoy some refreshments before and during the races. Next year the raft race will be held on 24th August 2014. The Entry Forms etc. for anyone wishing to enter a raft, which shows the rules for construction and teams, safety forms plus a poster, team signup sheet and most important - the sponsorship form, will be changed in due course Don’t forget, this event is to raise money for the RNLI, every bit of sponsorship helps! Many thanks to Hythe Marina Village for supporting the RNLI
Posted on: Sat, 23 Aug 2014 09:40:16 +0000
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