TEAMS are getting ready to enter the dragon this summer as a popular boat race returns to Coate Water Country Park.

The Swindon Dragon Boat Race, run by the Rotary Club of Swindon Phoenix is now in its fifth year and will be held on June 25.

Competition is set to hot up as up to 20 teams vie to win a prestigious and custom-made hand-painted ceramic dragon trophy.

The day will comprise a series of heats over a course of approximately 250 metres, with each team racing at least three heats before the fastest teams are sent through to the finals stage.

Spectators will watch with bated breath to see if reigning double champions, the Silverbacks, can defend their title.

In previous years teams have supported an array of individual charities including the Thamesdown Hydrotherapy Pool, Swindon Epilepsy Support Group, Prospect Hospice and the Brighter Futures radiotherapy appeal.

One of the organisers John Fisher from the Rotary Club of Swindon Phoenix said the team were gearing up for a day of fun and fierce competition.

He said:“It is always a fantastic day that is growing year on year. Every year it gets bigger and better.

“There’s a bit of friendly competition and I think everyone wants to beat the Silverbacks this year so I am really looking forward to it.

“It really gets the community together in the best possible way and you see the best of people. Everyone really enjoys coming to see not only the race but for the whole day of events.

“It really means a lot to win and I think it will be very close as to who takes home the trophy.”

The committee are also looking for teams to sign up to this year’s Dragon Boat race.

John said: “Dragon boat racing is so fun and anyone can take part in it so we’d love it if as many people as possible signed up for the event.”

Organisers hope they will raise at least £15,000 from this year’s event.

Along with the dragon boat face-off there will be rides for kids and stalls providing refreshments and hot food along with charity stalls

Each participating team has a minimum of 17 people, of which 16 are rowers and one is the drummer.

The Rotary Club of Swindon Phoenix, who will hold a champagne draw every hour, hope to raise thousands for town charities this year.

Every time a team signs up the Rotary Club sets up a Just Giving page for members of the boat to collect sponsorship.

To book visit swindondragonboat.org.uk or visit swindonphoenixrotary.org