The Construction Industry Dragon Boat Challenge is back for its 27th year, and we at NewWave Events are inviting contractors, consultants, suppliers and clients from across the industry to get their teams together now.
This year’s challenge raised over £35,000 for CRASH, the construction and property industry charity. The 2027 challenge takes place at Surrey Docks Fitness and Water Sports Centre on Thursday 27th May, and we hope to build on that total with the help of the industry once again.
Raising money for CRASH
CRASH is the UK construction industry’s charity that helps homelessness charities and hospices with their vital construction projects. By taking part in this event, you’ll help to create places that care for people when they’re most in need. The money raised through the challenge goes directly towards that work.
“Raising over £35,000 for CRASH this year was a fantastic result, and it’s down to the teams who take part. It’s the 27th year of the challenge, and the industry’s support for CRASH hasn’t wavered. We can’t wait to see what we can raise together in 2027,” said Lucy Morton, Executive Director at NewWave Events.
A day on the water
Teams race each other in dragon boats over a series of heats, with a group of paddlers, a drummer and an experienced helm in each boat. No previous experience is needed. For many firms, the challenge is a fixture in the diary, a chance to get colleagues off site and spend the day with clients, partners and the wider supply chain.
This year, 33 teams took part, all racing for medals, a trophy and industry bragging rights. It made for a brilliant atmosphere on the day, and we’d love to see even more teams on the water in 2027.
There’s plenty going on away from the boats too. A commentator keeps everyone up to speed with the action on the water, there’s music playing throughout, and a magician working the crowd on the bank, plus a few fun extras. Bring colleagues, clients and supporters along to cheer from the bank.
Every team also gets 11 BBQ tickets included in their entry, and there’s a bar on site for when the racing is done. Colleagues, clients and supporters are welcome to come along and cheer from the bank.
Key Information for Teams:
- Event: 2027 Construction Industry Dragon Boat Challenge
- Date: Thursday 27th May 2027
- Location: Surrey Docks Fitness and Water Sports Centre
- Charity Partner: CRASH
How to get involved
Entries open in December 2026. You can find out more now at dragonboatevents.co.uk or email isabel@newwave-events.co.uk to register your interest and be among the first to hear when places are released. Put the date in your diary and get your team on board to help raise even more for CRASH.