Have your oars at the ready for this year's St Neots Charity Dragon Boat Race 2023.

The popular event returned for the first time since 2019 last year, and this time, it promises more "guaranteed fun for everyone".

Thousands of spectators are expected to descend along the Regatta Meadow this Saturday, August 19, to watch several teams of 8-10 competitors furiously paddle it out to be crowned the 2023 champions.

The Hunts Post: 23 teams took part in last year's Dragon Boat Race.23 teams took part in last year's Dragon Boat Race. (Image: Newsquest)

The paddlers will push themselves to the limit in three qualifying heats over a 200-metre course on the River Great Ouse, with races commencing at 10am until 5pm, with several stalls and fun to be had by the crowds throughout the day.

The Hunts Post: Each crew will be formed of 8-10 paddlers plus a drummer.Each crew will be formed of 8-10 paddlers plus a drummer. (Image: Newsquest)

A spokesperson for St Neots Town Council said: "Dragon Boating is a sport everyone can participate in, no experience is necessary, and the St Neots race, which is co-organised by St Neots Town Council, the Rotary Club of St Neots St Mary's and St Neots Dragon Boat Team, attracts a wide range of contestants including corporate groups, sports, and social groups all looking to enjoy a fun challenge together whilst raising money for charity."

READ MORE: St Neots Charity Dragon Boat Race 2022 a roaring success

The Hunts Post: For the first time last year, the St Neots deputy mayor Cllr Richard Slade and town councillors took part in the event as 'Slade's Sailors'.For the first time last year, the St Neots deputy mayor Cllr Richard Slade and town councillors took part in the event as 'Slade's Sailors'. (Image: i-d Image Development St Neots)

The St Neots Dragon Boat Team, who are the event co-organisers, have offered all entered crews some pre-race training with their experienced coaches to ensure the teams can hit the ground running. 

Entry to watch the event is free, and the public is encouraged to bring picnic blankets or chairs to strap in for a fun-filled day of sporting action.

There will be several food and drink stalls, a fun fair, live race commentary, and an outdoor screen displaying the race schedule and information at the event.

The Hunts Post: Several stalls and fun can be had by the crowds in-between each of the races. Several stalls and fun can be had by the crowds in-between each of the races. (Image: Newsquest)

Food stalls at the event include a hog roast, pizzas, kebabs, cheesecakes, and more, or if preferred, the public is permitted to bring their own picnics, but no barbeques. 

Last year's event raised more than £8,000 for local charities, and the public can make donations during the day to support them.