Raft race wows the crowd

Manama : The Rotary Club of Salmaniya hosted its 40th annual raft race yesterday, at the Al Bandar Resort and Spa in Sitra. 

The event was organised to raise funds to “Beat Diabetes”.

The races began with an introduction about the event sponsors and gratitude for their generosity in supporting this charitable, fun and family-oriented event.

Sponsored teams took turn racing each other in the large lagoon at Al Bandar. Each team comprised of eight people in total, including men and women, with four people seated on both sides of the raft. 

People of all ages participated in the event, which started at 9am. 

Music and festivities drew in more crowds as the day progressed.  Evita Diaz, a Filipino national, who just moved to Bahrain from the UAE, said, “I’m new to Bahrain and so far I’m loving it! This is really a fun event.”

“I’m enjoying the atmosphere and the great weather today. It’s perfect weather to wear shorts and spend time by the beach,” Evita added.

Another keen spectator, Michael Booth, a South African who moved to the island a few months ago, said, “It’s a great event, lots of fun happening, full of cool people.”  Activities such as hair braiding and a raffle with a brand new car as first prize were also included in the carnival-like event. 

The results of the Rotary club of Salmaniya Raft Race 2016

Men: 

Gold    -  BMMI

Silver   -  Alba-2

Bronze - Al Ghalia group-2

Mixed: 

Gold     -  Alba-3

Silver    -  APM Terminals

Bronze  -  MMC