GROUPS with a sense of adventure can show their sporting prowess and benefit some of the region’s top good causes.

Hetton Lyons Country Park, on Wearside, will play host to the Great Northern Dragon Boat Challenge on Sunday, August 11.

There is still time for parties of friends, family and business colleagues to take part in the event, raising funds for the charity of their choice.

The event is being organised by Wearside’s Rotary SR1 and Sunderland Satellite.

Anyone interested in taking part needs to gather a group of 20 people who can if they choose raise sponsorship to support a charity.

The races will take place in traditional Chinese dragon boats across a 250m course. Prior experience is not necessary and full training will be given on the day.

Ian Wong, President of Sunderland’s SR1 Rotary Group Ian Wong said: “The emphasis is very much on having fun and raising money for some fantastic causes,”

“It’s a great day out for friends or for work colleagues who want an unusual team building experience or anyone who wants to help their favourite charity.”

Anyone wanting more information or who wants to enter a team – at a cost of £400 per boat - can download the entry form at www.dragonboats.co.uk

Along with the racing, visitors can enjoy a fun fair, beer stand and a range of craft and food stalls which will be available throughout the day.

Winning teams will also get the opportunity to take part in the final race with the hope of being announced the event champions.

The event starts at 10am and runs until 5pm.

A range of sponsorship opportunities are available for the event, further information is available by contacting Ian Wong at ian.wong77@gmail.com