The fourth annual Dragon Boat Race, hosted by Stark Building Materials UK at Draycote Water, has once again demonstrated the power of community and collaboration, raising £79,500 for Band of Builders and Whiteley’s Retreat.

With 470 participants from across the UK and beyond, the event has grown into a flagship celebration of teamwork, shared purpose, and charitable giving.

What began in 2022 as a way to reconnect colleagues after the isolation of the pandemic, has evolved into a cornerstone of Stark UK’s commitment to people-first values. The first event, born from a desire to rebuild bonds and support vital charities, brought together 180 participants and raised £30,000. Since then, the race has grown year on year, with an increasing number of suppliers, staff members, and supporters joining forces to make a meaningful impact.

This year’s event featured 25 teams and 42 suppliers, with participants from across Stark UK’s network (including J P Corry in Northern Ireland, Norman’s of Jersey, Stark Denmark, Major Build Solutions, Jewson Partnership Solutions, and regional teams from Wales and the centre of the country) coming together for a day of spirited competition and connection.

The day began with breakfast and coffee, followed by a series of round-robin races, a bake sale, a raffle, and a BBQ lunch. The grand final was a thrilling showdown, with Team Ibstock Brick (the Clay Fired Dragons) narrowly claiming victory by less than half a second.

Richard Holland, Category Manager at Stark UK, reflecting on the event’s significance, said: “This race is about far more than competition. It’s about bringing people together – colleagues, suppliers, friends – and creating a space where relationships can grow. Our industry thrives on connection, and events like this remind us that when we come together with a shared purpose, we can achieve incredible things.

“The energy, the laughter, the generosity; it all speaks to the strength of our community. We’re proud to support charities that do so much for others, and we’re equally proud of the culture we’re building at Stark UK – one that values people, partnership, and purpose.”

Mark Eisling, Chief Commercial Officer for Stark UK, also shared his positive thoughts on the day, adding: “The Dragon Boat Race Day was a fantastic celebration of community spirit and shared purpose.

"With a record-breaking 25 boats and over 400 attendees, it brought together colleagues and suppliers to support our charity partners, Band of Builders and Whiteleys Retreat. We’re incredibly proud of how everyone came together with passion and pride, showing their generosity and enthusiasm. It’s events like this that showcase the best of who we are and what we stand for.”

Employees and suppliers are already looking forward to next year’s event, with £50,000 already pledged to ensure the event comes back bigger and better.