Local businesses invited to take part in this year's Two Cities Boat Race

The Universities of Manchester and Salford are throwing down the gauntlet to local companies to enter a team to take on other businesses in this year's Two Cities Boat Race dragon boat contest on Saturday 10th May.

Boat Race organisers are appealing to North-West companies to enter 17 person teams, with money from the sponsorship being donated to SPARKS, a charity that supports medical research for children.

The Two Cities Boat Race is now recognised as one of the top events in the region's sporting calendar, and the race between Manchester and Salford University is watched by thousands of cheering spectators each year at Salford Quays.

One of the most exciting events of the day is the dragon boat racing, where a drummer encourages their 16-person crew to paddle as quickly and ferociously as possible to see off rival boats! It is a fast and furious race pitting university staff, students, and local businesses against each other before the main boat race between the two universities.

Helen Bond at the University of Salford said; "Taking part in the Dragon Boat Race is great fun and a fantastic team-building exercise. No experience is required, as training will be provided on the day. Dragon boat racing has established itself as the UK's favourite mass participation water sport, so if you've never tried it, now's your chance! "

Furthermore, taking part in the Dragon Boat Race provides great publicity and offers fantastic hospitality for all of the companies involved... and those who don't wish to row can always beat the drum!

The race takes place at Salford Quays on the morning of Saturday 10th May.  For more information on the event please visit www.twocitiesboatrace.co.uk