The current is moving very swiftly with the annual KM Dragon Boat Race.

Last year’s event broke records after raising a staggering £100,000 for good causes, and there is little stopping the momentum behind the 2016 challenge day.

As of February 1, a record 30 boats are already booked for the July event, and this week building society Kent Reliance has been unveiled as the headline partner.

Robert Gurr, Communications Manager at Kent Reliance, said: “We were bowled over last year by just how much the race raised for charities. £100,000 by 40 teams is incredibly impressive. We are very much hoping for more of the same in 2016.”

Polly Viccars of Kent Reliance, said: “The KM Dragon Boat Race is a key part of our community initiative and we are delighted to serve as the headline supporter.”

The race takes place on Sunday, July 3 at Mote Park, Maidstone and requires teams of 11 to compete. Every penny raised by racers goes directly to their nominated charity.

All participants will take part in at least three races, with the fastest teams competing in finals at the end of the day.

Dominic Comins, events manager at the KM Charity Team who organise the event, said: “To have so many boats booked this early in the year is amazing. The Dragon Boat Race continues to build as a flagship entry in the county’s charitable calendar, and we are keen to further break records this year. It’s an action-packed day for all involved, so secure your boat now and avoid disappointment!”

A £50 booking discount is available by applying code KMBDL when booking at kmcharitychallenge.co.uk

Fact-File

• The KM Dragon Boat Race is in its 8th year and was originally staged at Medway Maritime but outgrew the location.
• More than £400,000 has been raised for charity at the event since the event was first staged.
• The event is one of more than a dozen adrenaline events staged throughout the year by the KM Charity Team, including the annual KM Charity Walk and KM Assault Course Challenge.