Thank you once again to all our Rafters! Rain failed to dampen your spirits and we had a record turnout of 83 Rafts!! Which was amazing! The day got off to a great start with the Junior Raft Race: Results below...
Junior Raft Race
| 1st |
Campbell Rodgers + Stephen Bingham |
| 2nd Joint |
Simon King + Andrew King
Sarah Allen + Laura Scott |
| 4th |
Thomas Merchantson + Ben Turner |
Special Prize
Orange hand built craft - Kellie, Rachel, Derek and Shane
Rafts from as far afield as Newtownards, Belfast, and even Portglenone arrived in not so sunny Portrush to take part in the 28th Raft Race sponsored by SPAR Retail.
83 Rafts registered this year to take part. This is one of the highest entries so far. In pouring rain the keen rafters took to the sea with gusto! But as usual the Hawthorne inn from Portglenone took the honours. These guys really know how to raft.
The Raft Race Committee are overwhelmed at the number of rafts and enthusiasm deployed this year especially in light of the economic downturn.
Rosemary Bell, Chair of the Raft Race Committee said:
'We are indebted to all our rafters for their enthusiasm in raising funds for Portrush Lifeboat Station, especially in such inclement weather. Everyone entered the spirit of the event, which is great fun for the rafters and the organisers. We are especially indebted top SPAR retail for their generous sponsorship'
Results Main Raft Race
| 1. |
Hawthorn Inn- Portglenone |
| 2. |
Turktanic- Newtownards |
| 3. |
Serious Talent on Board- Island Magee |
| 4. |
Untouchables |
| 5. |
Newtown Sea Steppers |
| 6. |
Sie Sick |
| 7. |
Ton duff Barrel Heads |
| 8. |
Soggy Bottom By |
| 9. |
Soggy Sea Dogs |
| 10. |
Sea Bed Crawler |
| 11. |
She's Electric |
| 12. |
Hawaiian 5 plus 1 |
| Most Heroic Failure |
North Star |
| Most Innovative Raft |
Ruby Tuesday Tactical Support Group PSNI- |
| Best Crew Dress |
Rafty Devils and Titanic |
Sunday stayed dry for the Church Service on the quay, which was well attended. The Portrush Lifeboat Chaplain conducted the service for 2009 Rev Peter McDowell, assisted by Pastor Todd, Rev Robert Simpson, and Deaconess Julie Peake. Ballywillan Band as usual provided the music.
The Waiters Race made a welcome return this year organised by Rodney Byrne and Alan McFadden. There was a great turn out from the local hostelries. However, Royal Portrush Golf Club won the day returning the most fluids to the finishing line. Sharman Crawford and Holly Williams lifted the trophy for collecting the most money, £850.
In total the amount raised by the Waiters Race was £1800
The Raft Race Committee would really love your comments on the day and how we can improve it. Please send all suggestions to judy@portrushlifeboat.com
