PERSHORE Phoenix Dragon Boat Racing Club are holding a ‘have a go’ day in Evesham this Sunday (August 20).

The free event at Crown Meadow starts at 10.30am and is open to beginners who want to learn the basics of the sport so no experience is necessary.

Dragon boat racing involves teams of up to twenty paddlers in a 40 foot boat with a drummer and helm, paddling frantically to beat the other teams down the course.

The drums, shouting and colourful boats make it an impressive and exciting sport both to watch and to compete in.

Dragon boats are capable of reaching speeds of up to 18km an hour.

During the summer, Pershore Phoenix practice two or three times a week, often entering races across the UK.

In September, they will be entering the Great River Race on the River Thames.

In previous years, members have paddled the Vogalonga, a non-competitive race through the canals of Venice.

Dragon boat racing is a perfect opportunity to improve fitness, spend time outdoors and make new friends.

The club frequently organises local paddling trips of four or five miles along the River Avon, often stopping off at pubs on the way.

For more information visit dragonboating.org.uk

By Kelsey Grainger