PREPARATIONS are underway for one of Bahrain’s biggest charity events, which has raised more than BD2 million in the past three decades.

The 38th annual Raft Race, organised by the Rotary Club of Salmaniya, will take place at the Al Bandar Hotel and Resort on March 28.

Organising committee chairman Dr Steve Glykys said 48 teams were expected to sign up for the event, which will raise funds for disadvantaged children.

“We are hoping that the event will raise funds amounting to around BD60,000 in order to help us achieve our goals of supporting the deprived children of Bahrain,” he said.

The event consists of two races – a men’s event that takes place in the open waters at the Al Bander resort and a mixed event staged inside the lagoon area.

Entry costs BD375 per team, which comprises 10 participants with eight on the raft and two in reserve.

Rafts will be provided by the Rotary Club of Salmaniya and participating teams will be able to practise and attend training sessions a month prior to
the race.

Teams representing universities, hotels and businesses were among the 32 teams that took part in this year’s event in April, which raised more than BD42,000 for charity.

“The efforts of the Rotarians and all those who contribute to the raft race are always magnificent and this year I am sure will be no different,” said Dr Glykys.

“In total, we hope to receive plenty of participation to allow us to collect maximum donations.”

The race is the Rotary Club’s main annual fundraiser, with all proceeds this year distributed among local children’s charities as part of its Kids-in-Need project.

Since its inception in the late 1970s, the event has donated more than BD2m to a number of charities including the Isa Town Rehabilitation Centre, Health Ministry, Al Noor Institute, UCO Parents Care Centre and Bahrain Association for Mental Retardation.

Entry will be free for spectators.

To enter a team call participation committee head Karim Mouawadon on 39993411 or e-mail karim@rapidtelecom.com.

For sponsorship, call Hassan Jarraron 17003920 or e-mail Hassan.jarrar@sc.com.