Stroud Raft and Duck Race

Sunday 1st October, 2017

The Stroud Raft Race is back for the second year running but with a few surprises! Firstly, this year the raft race will be held as part of the Stroud Fringe Festival, adding a waterways dimension to this unique and popular event. Secondly, the organisers have plotted to include some extra challenges, the title might give it away…

The raft race was resurrected last year by Luciano and Sarah Magalotti, to continue a tradition begun in 1985 for having fun on the Thames & Severn Canal. Each year sees more restoration milestones completed, by volunteers of the Cotswold Canals Trust (CCT) and Stroud District Council, and more reason to celebrate the opening of the waterways and towpaths to the Five Valleys and beyond.

The enthusiasm and ingenuity of last year’s race participants, sponsorship and raffle prizes by local businesses, on-the-water support by Stroud Valley Canoe Club, and event volunteers, made the 2016 race day a great success. This year, everyone who participates will be raising money for the CCT and Christian-based The Door youth project. 
The Door was established in 1991 and offers support for the benefit of all young people and their families, including their Youthwork team, community café, a young parents’ group (aDOORables), Girls Group and ‘detached’ on the streets work.

So, start designing your rafts and get your entries in for 1.2km of fun on the water as part of the Stroud Fringe Festival while raising funds for the CCT and The Door! Entry forms at www.stroudraftrace.org/entry-form, there will be trophies!