The BS Fixings team, along with members of our parent company BS Stainless, had a wet'n'wild weekend as we took part in the North & Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce Annual Dragon Boat Challenge. Though we didn't bring home the trophy, our time improved on each of the three races our team, 'Team Orange', took part in and everyone had an amazing (if tiring!) time.

Dragon boat racing is a Chinese custom that dates back well over 2,000 years. Starting life as a folk ritual that pitted rival villages against each other in a test of speed, skill and strength, the officially-recognised sporting event is now the fastest-growing water-based activity in the UK.

As suggested by the name, a 'dragon boat' is designed to look like a Chinese dragon. To make sure the rowers keep to a strict rhythm, a drummer is placed at the head of the boat, from where he or she beats out time. At the back of the boat sits the helmsman, whose job it is to make sure that the boat keeps moving in the right direction. Though only human effort is used to power the craft, it can reach remarkable speeds thanks to its ultra-streamlined shape.

The event, established in 2012, is now a staple in the Chamber’s events calendar, with 13 teams entering and over 300 attendees and spectators at Preston Marina. Many races took place over the course of the day, keeping all of the teams busy. Teams were fielded from companies all over the Lancashire area and it was a great opportunity to meet with others in an informal, fun setting. The weather on the big day wasn't the best (typical British summer rain!) but our big gazebo and deckchairs provided the perfect place to rest in between races.

Lots of family, friends, colleagues and business associates turned out to cheers us on and we would like to take this opportunity to say a big THANK YOU to each and every one of them.

Stainless steel itself played a big part in the race, used in everything from our gazebo and deck chairs to the dragon boats themselves. Check out our comprehensive collection of materials and ranges, components and tools and who knows, maybe you can build your very own dragon boat! Not sure where to start? Check out our current very special offers...