Fifty teams from businesses across the West Midlands took to the canal at Mailbox Birmingham raising over £300,000 as part of Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital Charity’s fifth Dragon Boat Race, tipping the annual event’s cumulative total to over £1.1 million.
The two-day event was sponsored by building contractor BSN Group Construction and saw the 50 teams battle it out through three heats of 200m races to determine each day’s top four teams.
The proud overall winner on the first day, determined by highest fundraising total combined with one of the fastest times of the day, was a team from Colemans while taking the trophy on the second day was a team from PJ Hegarty and Sons, who also took the title of fastest race winner. The fastest race winner on the Friday was a team from event host, Mailbox.
Mark Brider, CEO at Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “Our fifth consecutive Dragon Boat Race was bigger and better than ever, with epic displays of energy, determination and passion for our charities.
"We’re astounded by the phenomenal £301,474 our brilliant corporate partners and supporters raised for us, and absolutely over the moon we’ve hit the remarkable £1 million milestone for this event.
“Every penny will make a big difference to our women, babies, children and families as we aim to make our hospitals the best they can be – providing world-class care and treatment to the thousands of patients we treat every year across Birmingham, the West Midlands and beyond.”
Molly Oriviss, marketing manager at Mailbox, said: “We are so proud to host this landmark event at Mailbox year on year, and couldn’t be more delighted with the total raised. It is a real privilege to play a part in the event’s success, knowing the significant impact of the money raised on our community.
"Not only do we love hosting the event, but we love taking part too, and this year we were thrilled to come away with a gold medal for the fastest team on the Friday!"
Darren Perry, managing director at BSN Group Construction, said: “We’re proud to have sponsored Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital Charity’s Dragon Boat Race for the fourth year running.
"Each year it gets bigger and better, and the outstanding amount raised this year is a testament to everyone’s hard work and generosity. A huge thank you to all who took part. Our bond with Birmingham Children’s Hospital is something we value deeply, and we are honoured to continue supporting the vital work they do for children and families.”
If your business would like to take part in Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital Charity’s 2026 Dragon Boat Race, contact bwc.corporatepartnerships@nhs.net to register your interest.
