The 45th annual Chester Raft Race, sponsored by Salt Town Contractors, was held on the River Dee on July 3, 2022. The event, organised by Chester Round Table, saw teams of all ages and abilities race homemade rafts along a 2.5 mile course, all in support of the event charity, The Countess of Chester Hospital.
This year’s theme was “100 years of British TV”, and the teams did not disappoint with their creative and ingenious raft designs, all based on famous TV shows from across the decades.
The day was filled with excitement and entertainment, as thousands of spectators lined the banks of the river to cheer on the rafters as they navigated their way through the challenging course. From the starting line at the Meadows to the finish line at Sandy Lane, the teams faced a series of obstacles, including rapids, rocks, and sharp turns.
The teams battled it out for the title of Overall Fastest Raft, Fastest Ladies Raft, and Fastest Hostelry Raft, as well as the highly coveted Best Theme award. There were also awards for the Titanic Ultimate Sinkers, the teams that put on the most spectacular and entertaining sinking performances.
In the end, the team from Crocky Trail emerged as the Overall Fastest Raft, with BOST Musicals taking home the prize for Fastest Ladies Raft and The Old Harkers Arms winning both the Fastest Hostelry Raft and the Best Theme award. The Alan Sprostons took home the prize for Titanic Ultimate Sinkers.
The atmosphere on the Meadows was electric, as the spectators enjoyed a range of food and drink stalls, music and entertainment, and a funfair. All the while, the volunteers from The Countess of Chester Hospital were on hand to collect donations and raise awareness for their cause.
The Chester Raft Race team has already begun planning for next year’s event, and we can’t wait to see what creative and exciting raft designs will be on display for the 46th annual race.
