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ORGANISERS of the annual charity raft race splash-tacular have been overwhelmed by the generosity of competitors, supporters and sponsors.
The annual event organised by the Rotary Club of Salmaniya is likely to have exceeded its target of BD30,000 despite initial fears that the effort would be hit by the current global financial downturn.
"We had doubts that we would not be able to garner enough funds for charity through our annual fundraiser but days before the event several companies and sponsors came forward to support the cause.
"This just goes to show that the community believes in the Rotary Club and the charities it supports in Bahrain," said Rodolphe Melki, the club's spokesman.
The raft race was held at the Al Bander Hotel and Resort and proved to be as popular as ever with scores of families enjoying the sunshine and cheering on the participants.
Twenty-five teams participated in the men and mixed events with some teams even registering on the day.
The adrenaline-fuelled races were a treat to watch as teams competed against each other to cross the line to victory.
Bahrain Airport Services, Alkomed Engineering Services and Al Ghalia (Green) took the first, second and third place in men's single race. College of Health Sciences, BMMI and Union Press came in first, second and third in the mixed race.
Intense rivalry between teams has in the past boiled over but even the heat couldn't spoil the weekend's event with raised temperatures.
"There was a party ambience at the race with fun and the spirit of competition going hand in hand. But, what was palpable was a feeling of charity amongst all those who were present," said Mr Melki.
The Raft Race started in the late 1970s and has since raised BD2 million for local good causes.
