Dragon Boat Races

For the second year running, an intrepid crew of ROWtarians from the Rotary club of Rhyl has raised over £1000 for St David's Hospice Llandudno by crewing a twenty-person Dragon Boat during the annual Dragon Boat Race at Llyn Padarn, Llanberis. 

Not only did the crew participate, but they also gained coveted silver medals at the race, having seen off formidable opponents such as 'Lyon's Warriors' and 'Conwy Dragons' in a gruelling series of knockout rounds , semi-finals and ultimately the final two boat race which was narrowly won by 'Dream of Dan's Dragons'.

The sponsored race had extra significance and poignancy for the Rotary Club race organiser, Tracey Phillips, who tragically lost her sister Beverley from a brain tumour in 2018. Tracey commented: 'During her final days, St David's looked after Beverley so well with kindness and exceptional care; the family will be eternally grateful to the wonderful staff who showed dedication, professionalism and such compassion and it has been our pleasure as a Rotary Club to contribute in this way'. 

Beverley's husband Martin., who also participates in voluntary work at the hospice, acted as steward during the race while her second sister Julie accompanied another Dragon Boat crew representing 'Learning Disability Week'.

John Dicks, current President of Rhyl Rotary Club added 'This was an amazing effort from our club members and to gain silver medals from such a mixed age crew is an outstanding achievement. We do not yet know the final amount raised as sponsorship funds are still coming in, but it will be well above £1000. Very well done to everyone involved'

While Richard Jones representing St David's Hospice commented: 'Our hospice is now in its 25th year and it is thanks to our loyal supporters such as the Rotary Club of Rhyl that we are able to offer the wonderful service that we try to achieve.