IT IS one of the most colourful and well loved traditions at the Marlow Town Regatta.

As the clock ticks down to the biggest event in the town's calendar, next weekend, Jade Coulon speaks to one of the teams with the longest standing connection to the dragon boats race and finds out how they prepare.

THE river may be where the action takes place, but training sessions for The Marlow Ageing Dads often take place on dry land – in the pub.

The team of Marlovians have taken place in every Dragon Boat Regatta since the town regatta began in 2001.

Now, the veteran racers, who met through their children, sport and work, are returning to the River Thames for the 11th year.

Richard Stewart, captain of the greying dads, said: “It’s a great day out for the competitors, spectators and families.

“It’s a load of fun and if the weathers nice it’s hard to beat. You can bring a picnic and watch a good bit of camaraderie and competition on the river.”

Despite only reaching the finals once, the team of eleven have planned just one training session with organisers, Dragons Alive.

Mr Stewart said: “This year we’re going to Bisham for a training session with Dragons Alive, but that is as much training as we’ll do in the water.

“We tend to do more land based training at the Prince of Wales pub.”

Jubilee celebrations mean the colourful event has been pushed back a week - falling on Sunday 10 - the last weekend of half term. Organisers believe this is why fewer teams than usual have signed up.

Mr Stewart joked: “With a few less teams in the competition, we might actually stand a chance.”