The 19th annual Challenge the Dragon Boat Festival kicked off at Cobourg on September 22, 2018.
Teams from as far as Ottawa came for the annual event that raised funds for Northumberland United Way.
This year the teams raised over $26,000 for the cause.
The weather couldn’t have been better for participants on the course.
Some of the competitors had a wealth of experience, whereas for others it was the first time in a dragon boat.
It was also announced at the event the Northumberland United Way “Local Love” campaign’s goal this year is $848,000.
“Over the years, I’ve learned so much about United Way’s role in our community and how they are always here to lend a helping hand when “life happens,” said Diane Saunders, 2018 Campaign spokersperson.
“When people lose their employment in a tough economy; when a fire devastates a home; or when you lose a loved one suddenly and can’t cope; United Way and their funded community partners are here to help.”
Last year, United Way and their community partners impacted the lives of more thank 25,346 peple. This means one in three people in Northumberland County were able to access the support they needed because of a United Way funded program or service.
“United Way is sharing a pwerful message this year about Local Love; when we work together to fight unignorable issues in our community, the results are unignorable too,” says Heather Norris, CEO, Northumberland United Way.
“A single act of local love can have a profound impact and this is possible because of the support of our generous donors, volunteers, sponsors and community.”
United Way have been changing the lives in Northumberland County since 1969 and in 2019 they will celebrate their 50th anniversary.
The total raised for the day was $26,365. Most raised by a team was $5,570 by the Rotary Club of Cobourg and the highest amount raised by an individual was $2,480 by Tony Farren.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
