Chadwell Heath Dragons make waves with silver at Al Noor Boat Race

Published: 17 July 2025

On Saturday 5th July, Chadwell Heath, East London, the Chadwell Heath Dragons, a local charity-driven dragon boat team from East London, delivered an outstanding performance at this year’s Al Noor Boat Race, clinching silver after a nail-biting final against the professional outfit Shadwell Dragons.

Despite facing a top tier team nationally and seasoned in the British Dragon Boat Association circuit, Chadwell Heath Dragons pushed them all the way falling short by just two seconds in a race that had spectators on their feet.

“For a local community team to go toe-to-toe with Shadwell Dragons and come within seconds is an achievement in itself,” said Head Coach, Amin. “It shows what heart, discipline, and belief can do.”

Behind the scenes, Team Manager, Arakoth ensured the day ran seamlessly, while captain Afzal kept morale and focus high throughout every round. A special shoutout goes to Shoukat, whose food and refreshments kept the team energised all day.

The Al Noor Boat Race, known for bringing together grassroots and elite paddlers from across the UK, proved the perfect stage for Chadwell Heath Dragons to showcase their talent, unity, and determination.

“We didn’t just race we represented our community,” said Afzal. “To challenge a top-tier team like Shadwell Dragons the way we did… that’s a win we’ll carry with pride.”

Wearing silver medals with heads held high, the Dragons have not only made their mark they’ve set a new benchmark for what a local charity team can achieve.

The team is part of a wider initiative by Empower Your Roots CIC, supporting their Madrasah School Project in Ghana, providing vital access to education and opportunity for children in underserved communities.

Support the Cause:

Though the race is over, the mission continues.

The Ghana Madrasah Project remains at the heart of Chadwell Heath Dragons’ journey. Every paddle stroke raised awareness, now, they need your support to carry that momentum forward.

“Whoever helps ease someone in difficulty, Allah will make it easy for him in this world and the hereafter.” (Muslim)

Please donate, share, and support this noble cause. Every contribution counts.

https://www.launchgood.com/v4/campaign/chadwell_heath_dragons__empower_your_roots_ghana_madrasah_project?src=759859

House of Giving

S/C: 30-99-50

A/C: 18272462

Ref: Ghana Madrasah

admin@houseofgiving.co.uk

www.houseofgiving.co.uk

Charity No: 1205629

To support the work of Empower Your Roots CIC or learn more about upcoming events and community projects, contact:

Email: info@eyrcic.org

Instagram: @empoweryourroots_

Website: www.eyrcic.org