Rowing is a bit of a tradition around these parts. We have a series of varsity races each year, as well as teaching Olympic Gold medallist Pete Reed practically everything he needed to know about the sport; you could say we have a knack for this sport. Perhaps this is why Sports President Lily Priggs organised a UWESU Dragon Boat team to race in a charity event last month.

After months of emails bouncing around and staff members talking in hushed whispers about their lack of rowing experience, suddenly we found ourselves huddling together like penguins, on a brisk Sunday morning, most of us having never held a paddle in our lives.

Taking to the water for Sue Ryder Care, team UWESU took part in three races. With tension in the air, determination was strong and the competitive team spirit was rife among warring boats. Despite some rhythmic drumming and almost faultless strokes, UWESU finished second in the first race, with a respectable time of 1.37 minutes.

Despite picking up momentum in the following races the team only managed two more second place results, shaving a few seconds off their original time. Despite not winning the team were proud of their performance and look forward to next year. Notable performances go to Sarah Hopper and El McNab for their grim determination, Lily Priggs for team spirit and Liz Tomlinson, Hayley Martin and Becky Bird for their powerful drumming.

Sue Ryder Care are dedicated to helping people get the best from their lives, by helping put back what conditions like Multiple Sclerosis, Huntington's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, Stroke, Brain Injury and Cancer, take away: freedom, comfort, reassurance and self-esteem. At the time of going to print UWESU have raised nearly £500 but are still trying to raise as more money to reach our target of £1750 so if you would like to donate to the cause please visit www.justgiving.com/uwesu or pop a few quid in one of the big red buckets located in Red and Escape bar.