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GO DRAGONS! Sign up for this year’s Cambridge Dragon Boat Festival and help change the story of cancer in the region and beyond
T his year’s Cambridge Dragon Boat Festival celebrates its 20th year – with the hospital charity behind the popular event saying everyone who takes part will make a ‘meaningful difference’ to cancer care in the region. The launch celebrations began in true dragon boat style – with a full-size dragon boat at the UK head office of its sponsor, global genomics and human health leader Illumina. Joining forces for another fun- filled event were staff from Illumina, who are sponsoring the event for the third year running, Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust (ACT) whose event is raising money for the Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital (CCRH) and organiser NewWave Events. This year’s festival, taking place on the River Cam at Fen Ditton on 5 September, has a fundraising target of £50,000. The Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital, set to be built on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus by 2030, will bring world-leading research and clinical excellence under one roof, changing the story of cancer and improving the lives of cancer patients across the UK and beyond. Speaking at the launch event, ACT’s corporate partnership manager Natasha Robertson said: “We are thrilled that Illumina is sponsoring our Cambridge Dragon Boat Festival for the third year running. The event is a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to come together, have a great team day and raise vital funds for the new Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital (CCRH).” John Spicer, CCRH project director, said: “We’re thrilled this much-loved event
BIG SPLASH A full-sized dragon boat at the UK head office of event sponsor Illumina (pictured above) for the festival’s launch event
is helping to raise the crucial funds needed to make the Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital a reality. Our mission is to catch cancer earlier, act faster and change the story for every patient, and we couldn’t do it without the incredible support of our community and partners.” Teams will paddle 30ft boats up the River Cam with a drummer at the front beating time and a helm at the tail. Many teams take part in fancy dress with the ‘best dressed’ team winning an award on the day. Bankside entertainment includes traditional dance performances and funfair-style rides, with sponsor Illumina hosting family-friendly, fun activities. Refreshments will also be available. The good news for any teams thinking of entering is you don’t need to be pros to take part. Winning is about teamwork – last year’s champions, Bango, were novices!
For more information and to register your team, visit act4addenbrookes.org.uk/ dragonboat or call NewWave Events on 01536 674748
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK APRIL 2026 55
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