'FANTASTIC to finally be back'.
That's the verdict from John Galt, organiser of the popular Dragon Boat Festival which has roared back to life in Roberts Park, Saltaire, this weekend.
The event, which raises money for charitable causes, usually takes place in June but was postponed due to Covid restrictions.
It's the first one since 2019 because of the pandemic and while it's running on a more reduced format, there is delight that it's back.
John said: "It is fantastic to finally be back and having Dragon Boat racing again at Roberts Park.
"Today is being done to raise funds for the Bradford Lord Mayor’s Appeal.
"For 2021 we have kept it to a reduced format - that said there’s lots happening both on and off the water, with many of the usual attractions."
He said there has already been lots of action on the water and something completely new was being tried today - Dragon Boat Tug of War.
This saw six paddlers from each team, paddling facing each other in the boat, attempting to push each other past the line.
"It’s really building up the excitement," said John, a former member of the British team that won the World Dragon Boat Championships in 1999.
All teams are set to compete in a number of races over the weekend.
Each team gets three attempts to set a fast time, and the teams with the fastest times will advance to the semi-finals and eventually the final. There will be a champion on both days.
Each team is comprised of 16 forward facing rowers, a drummer at the front and a qualified steerer at the back. The steerer coaches the teams.
Tomorrow will see teams competing to raise funds for a charity of their choice.
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