St Catherine's Hospice Dragon Boats 2026

St Catherine's Hospice runs an annual charity dragon boat event on the lake at Tilgate Park in Crawley, West Sussex. Each crew consists of 11 people – ten paddlers and one drummer – and no previous experience is required, with boats, paddles and coaching provided by the organizers. Every team is guaranteed at least two races, and winners progress through rounds to a final that decides the champions. Entry costs £25 per person (£275 for a boat of 11) and teams commit to raising a minimum of £1,325 in addition to the entry fee. For 2026 the hospice added a team zone where crews may pitch their own 3x3 m gazebo, plus extra prizes for best-dressed team, best team name, most creative gazebo and highest fundraising total. Corporate entries and sponsorship are handled by the hospice's corporate fundraising team.