Bus drivers to try their hand at steering a dragon boat in annual river race

A group of bus drivers with First York are getting ready to try their hand at steering a different form of transport – a boat.

They are part of team from the operator taking part in the York Rotary Dragon Boat Challenge next weekend (Sunday 9 July).

The drivers will be joined by Operations Director Tom Bridge and management colleagues to make up the 16 rowers needed with the team name Ouse First.

It is captained by driver Tony Richmond, whose daughter Georgia, 24, will be charge of keeping the crew in time by beating the drum at the prow of the dragon boat. 

Tony said: “I’m not sure how many of us are any good at rowing, although this style is a bit different. There’s been no team training, we’re just straight into it.

“My daughter is looking forward to making a lot of noise and shouting at us!”

As well as raising sponsorship funds for the York Rotary Club Dragon Boat Challenge nominated charities,  the drivers are also supporting St Leonard’s Hospice. This provides specialist palliative care and support for local people with life-limiting illnesses and some drivers from First York and their families have experienced its care and support for loved ones.

Annie Keogh, Fundraising Manager for St Leonard’s Hospice, said: “Our focus continues to be on delivering excellent care and support to all of our patients, their families and loved ones. This would not be possible without the generous support of our community and great fundraising ideas like this one from First York and their drivers.”

Picture caption: Tony Richmond (left) with crew members Clive and Gareth and Annie Keogh.

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