Derry people may have traditionally ignored the Foyle or looked over the river at those on the other side, but a charity event for the Foyle Hospice is designed to focus people's attention back on the water.
Hong Kong dragon boat racing is the latest activity to hit the Foyle, thanks to two women who are raising £6,000 for the Foyle Hospice.
Ms Kate O'Halloran and Ms Patti Holly decided to organise a day of boat racing after signing up to take part in the Great Wall of China Challenge 2001. They leave for Beijing on October 14th, but before taking part in the 100 km walk along the Great Wall they must raise £3,000 each.
The boats are being supplied by a local adventure company. They are 40-foot long and four foot wide and can take 16 paddlers and a drummer.
Companies around Derry are being asked to put forward teams of 16 and it is expected that at least 12 teams will take part in the National Hong Kong Dragon Boat Championships on September 29th. Paddlers from all over the region are invited to take part.
Information on fund-raising from 028 (048 from the Republic) 71-353109. Those interested in sponsoring the participants in the Great Wall walk should contact 028-71-351687.