The last Sunday in July saw sunshine, laughter, and plenty of riverbank cheers as the Water Babe Warriors from Baldwin Boxall took on the 50th annual Lewes to Newhaven Raft Race – all to raise funds for charities close to their hearts, including the Children’s Respite Trust.
The Water Babe Warriors, led by Dean, went above and beyond turning their raft into the centrepiece of a creative sci-fi story. Complete with a Silver Surfer, dustbin lid shields, and a futuristic twist on the race’s history, the team brought imagination and humour to the River Ouse in abundance.
The spectators certainly played their part too, pelting the crew with eggs and flour as they navigated the seven-mile course. The Warriors deflected what they could and attempted to dodge what they couldn’t. Sadly in true raft race fashion, they even faced a dramatic mid-river rescue after becoming partially submerged at Southease, the Titanic theme tune playing triumphantly from their onboard PA system.
Thanks to their determination, creativity and good humour, the Water Babe Warriors from Baldwin Boxall raised over £1,500 for the Children’s Respite Trust.
Abi Tappenden, Marketing Coordinator at CRT, was on the riverbanks cheering the team on:
“Their determination was incredible – even as the crowds hurled things at them, they stayed focused, laughed through the chaos, and powered on down the river!”
We are so grateful to the team for choosing to support CRT, helping us continue our work providing care for children with disabilities and respite for their families. From all of us at the Children’s Respite Trust – thank you, Water Babe Warriors!