The inaugural IHH Singapore Sea Regatta (IHH-SSR) 2024 entered its first day of racing this past weekend on September 14th, as over 145 dragonboat crews and 1,300 athletes from 5 countries kicked off two action-packed days at the Water Sports Centre, Singapore Sports Hub.
IHH Singapore Sea Regatta Raising Awareness For Breast Cancer
In collaboration with the Ministry of Health and in support of the Breast Cancer Foundation (BCF), the event aimed to raise awareness for breast cancer and promote active ageing. Pink paddlers from around the region flock to Kallang River to participate in the CanHope Pink Warrior Race. Both public healthcare institutes and private hospitals rallied together to participate in the races over the two days.
The Guest of Honour Minister for Health Mr Ong Ye Kung joined in the opening celebrations, flagging off the international breast cancer survivors’ race. He further showed his support by paddling alongside local healthcare workers in the Minister’s Cup race, despite the rainy morning.
Minister Ong Ye Kung paddles alongside healthcare workers in the Minister’s Cup race
“We are very privileged to have the opportunity to be part of the event and to sponsor the event,” said IHH Healthcare Singapore CEO Dr Peter Chow. “It proves that this is an event that is very worth supporting.”
IHH-SSR Festival and Programme
Beyond the competitive racing, the public can look forward to a vibrant festival village experience landside.
A line-up of various booths spanning over three zones means that visitors can expect an engaging and interactive experience. Enjoy performances by the Kids Philharmonic SG Orchestra, Singhealth Cajon group, and more. Learn more about breast cancer, women’s health, active ageing and more through the many talks organised at the stage.
In the festival tentage are also booths by event sponsors such as Singapore Health Promotion Board, Thomson Medical and Raffles Health Insurance.
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Furthermore, a mobile mammogram bus sponsored by SATA CommHealth is situated at the event venue. A limited number of free mammograms are available each day for eligible participants. Females 50 years or above and who have not taken any mammograms in the past 2 years can visit the Mammo-On-Wheels during the event to learn more.
Sata CommHealth’s Mammo-On-Wheels at the IHH-Singapore Sea Regatta
Learn more about the Festival Programme on the IHH-SSR website.
The Spirit of IHH-SSR
In IHH-SSR, the spirit of the dragonboat not only embodies physical fitness and teamwork, but also serves as a beacon of hope and awareness for cancer prevention, and community well-being.
“I think it represents how we must always persevere, work as a team, (and) work together to overcome difficulties and challenges.” Minister Ong said. “Thank you Singapore Sea Regatta for organising this event.”
With 45 dragonboat teams gunning for the champion title across 14 exciting racing categories, thrilling action is guaranteed on both days of the IHH-Singapore Sea Regatta. But beyond the exhilarating races, may the festival spirit and its support for an important cause make for a memorable family weekend for all.
