24 June 2010 This summer Eastbourne Pier is setting beach fans the ultimate challenge as the Raft Race Competition returns to the UK’s sunniest shores.
An iconic landmark on the south coast, Eastbourne Pier is calling for teams from across the region to build their own rafts and test their mettle on the Eastbourne waves as they see who can race around the Victorian structure in the fastest time. Taking place on Sunday 25 July, there is still over a month left to organise a team and build a raft ready to compete in the race, with up to £400 on offer for the winning raft.
Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet Member for Tourism, Cllr Neil Stanley said “The Raft Race is a really fun seaside event that promises plenty of thrills, spills and laughter as teams take it in turns to race around the Pier and really put their purpose built rafts to the test. From whacky designs that barely stay afloat for a few minutes to teams that have gone all out to build rafts that beat the waves and chop through the sea; I’m sure there will be a real variety of entries and I’d encourage as many spectators as possible to get down to the beaches around the Pier and cheer on the competitors!”
Last year Eastbourne Pier was upgraded to II* by Culture Minister Barbara Follett recognising its position as one of Britain’s finest surviving piers. The Raft Race provides the ultimate event to celebrate the Great British seaside as the staycation looks set to continue in 2010.
With over four and a half million visitors to Eastbourne every year, the Pier in the centre of the resort’s traditional seafront is a popular location with visitors and having undergone extensive refurbishment over the past few years, it houses a wide variety of attractions, shops and dining for holidaymakers.
The 2010 Raft Race Competition provides the perfect opportunity for visitors to browse the attractions on the Pier including the original Camera Obscura from 1901, as well as witness an exciting contest.
Entries are now open for teams to enter this year’s competition. All rafts must be completely hand made and competitors must race in teams of four, with the raft launched into the sea with a running start from the beach next to the Pier.
Rafts will race around the Pier in heats with the winner from each heat receiving £200 and an extra £100 for the team who achieves the fastest time overall. There is also a £100 incentive for the best design with teams encouraged to really test their creativity as they build their rafts.
For more information on how to enter contact the Pier on 01323 410466.
