On Sunday 9th October, eight eager members of Pathfinder Homes took to the rapid waters of the River Dart for the Totnes Raft Race in aid of Rowcroft Hospice. On their self-built raft of recycled timber, plastic barrels, donated chairs and some sturdy strapping, they climbed on board and set off on their 14 kilometre adventure!
As the starting whistle blew, six Pathfinder Homes’ paddles hit the water whilst two other members manned the helm of the self-made raft and steered the team away from the boulders littering the river. Spirits were high as the Pathfinder Homes banner adorned to the raft, could be seen making headway through the natural obstacle course of river banks, rocks and rapids.
On Sunday 9th October, eight eager members of Pathfinder Homes took to the rapid waters of the River Dart for the Totnes Raft Race in aid of Rowcroft Hospice. On their self-built raft of recycled timber, plastic barrels, donated chairs and some sturdy strapping, they climbed on board and set off on their 14 kilometre adventure!
As the starting whistle blew, six Pathfinder Homes’ paddles hit the water whilst two other members manned the helm of the self-made raft and steered the team away from the boulders littering the river. Spirits were high as the Pathfinder Homes banner adorned to the raft, could be seen making headway through the natural obstacle course of river banks, rocks and rapids.
Having found their stride and making great time, the team had to hold on tight as the looming sight of grounded rafts, people swimming and lost paddles approached in the distance. With helmets on tight the raft battled through the vicious rapids and the team paddled frantically to stay afloat. Tension was high when the raft capsized and the team ended up head first in the icy water, they struggled to get it back on track as it went over for a second time but eventually clambered back on board. Soaking wet, a lost shoe, aching limbs and a grazed nose later the team miraculously got back into the swing of things and got through the rapids with the raft intact.
Pushing through the tiredness, in the distance the finish line could be seen which geared the team on for the final push of the race. Lead by a motivational team talk and renditions of some 90’s pop classic from Joey, the exhausted team crossed the finish line with high spirits and spectators cheering them on. The comradely of the challenge was fantastic and the Pathfinder Homes team headed home for a well-deserved rest and hot baths all around.
It was a great way to raise money for Rowcroft Hospice and there is still time to donate to this fantastic cause and support the tremendous team effort on our just giving page.
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Pathfinder-Homes-RaftRace