Paddle with purpose. Celebrate 10,000 children.
Join the Home-Start Dragon Boat Crew.
Join Our Dragon Boat Team – Be Part of Something Special
This year is a huge milestone for us – together, we’ve now supported 10,000 children!
And we’re celebrating in the best way we know how… by taking to the water!
We’ve secured two boats in the Arundel Dragon Boat Race and we’re looking for 22 amazing people (11 per boat) to join us for an unforgettable day of fun, teamwork and fundraising. The Dragon Boat Race is one of the most-loved events in the Arundel Festival of the Arts – a high-energy, laughter-filled day on the River Arun. You’ll be part of a team paddling a beautifully decorated dragon boat, racing around a short course (around 200 yards) cheered on by crowds along the riverbanks. Each boat has a drummer at the front setting the rhythm (yes, it’s as fun as it sounds), and a whole lot of cheering from the side lines.
No experience needed – though you should be reasonably fit. Just bring energy, team spirit… and maybe a sense of humour! Minimum age: 12 (under 18s with supervision). Come solo, with friends, or as part of a team!
Event Details
Event: Arundel Festival of the Arts – Dragon Boat Race
Race Day: 29rd August (from approx. 11am) (timings depend on tides)
Location: River Arun, Arundel
Why Take Part?
By joining our crew, you’ll be helping us continue supporting families across our community – and celebrating the impact of reaching 10,000 children. This is more than just a race. It’s:
A brilliant team experience
A chance to challenge yourself
A day full of laughter, cheering and community spirit
An opportunity to make a real difference
What You’ll Get and What We Ask
A free place on one of our boats (normally £38 per person)
A special Home-Start T-shirt to wear on the day
Nourishment at the end of the race
A fantastic, memorable day out!
We will ask you to raise £250 which would give vital support to a family for over three months. Don’t worry though – we will support you every step of the way – -giving you tips, ideas and help to set up a JustGiving page. You will be very surprised how easy it will be to raise that sum.
Ready to Jump In?
Spaces are limited and will fill quickly – don’t miss your chance to be part of this incredible day.
👉 Sign up now using the form below
👉 Gather your friends or join as an individual
👉 Help us power our boats (and our mission!) forward
Once you have signed up, Sophie will be in touch with you in due course with all the information you need to fundraise and what to expect on the day.
If you are unable to take part but would like to donate to our team, you can do so here via the Just Giving button below.
Thank you for your support and for caring!
This event is kindly sponsored by the Arundel Post Office and …
Next: Return to Fundraising


