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Sparks chosen as official charity in Two Cities Boat Race event

26/04/2007

Sparks, the children's medical research charity, has been chosen as the official charity for the Two Cities Boat Race – a hotly-contended event between the Universities of Manchester and Salford.

Funds generated by the 36th annual rowing race on May 12th will be handed over to the charity, which uses sport to help seriously-ill youngsters.

It is expected that thousands of spectators will watch the race at Salford Quays as the two sides compete along the traditional River Irwell course, starting at Sam Platt's Pub and finishing at the Lowry Bridge.

Tim Foster, Olympic rowing gold medallist and patron of the charity, said: "I'm delighted that Sparks has been chosen as the benefiting charity of the Two Cities Boat Race.

"There is a natural synergy between the event and a charity supported by the likes of Steve Redgrave, Matthew Pinsent, James Cracknell and the Searle brothers."

Last week, Salford-born film actor Robert Powell, who is president of Sparks, officially launched the event.

In 2006, record numbers turned out to witness Manchester win six of the seven main events – something that Salford hopes to avoid this year.



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