Team GDT&S Takes First Place at the 2026 Olney Raft Race!

There was plenty to celebrate at the annual Olney Riverfest Raft Race, as Team GDT&S rowed to victory on their recycled raft.

Taking first place in the all-male category with an impressive finishing time of 25 minutes and a 5-minute lead (not that anyone’s counting!) was a valiant effort not just from the rowers but from everyone behind such a special event.

Held on Sunday 5^th July 2026, as part of the traditional and beloved Olney Riverfest, the weekend brought together local Olney businesses, families and the wider community for a fantastic day of entertainment and summer celebrations.

Bringing the Olney Community to The Banks of the River Great Ouse

The festivities began with the ever-popular Duck Race, where contenders release their brightly coloured rubber ducks into the river and eagerly watch them float downstream – it was equally exciting for kids and adults, building anticipation for the main race.

Next came the Paddleboard Time Trial, with competitors testing their speed, skill and balance and enjoying the gorgeous views from the river. On a hot summer’s day, those who fell off their boards did not stress; in fact, they welcomed the cool relief.

While these events took place on the water, along the banks, there was plenty of food, refreshments, music and stalls for onlookers, with many fundraising efforts for local charities, which was inspiring to see.

The Main Event: Olney Raft Race

The raft race kicked off at the Weir in Emberton Country Park and finished at the Swimming Steps in the Olney Recreation Ground. The only rule?  Rafts must be homemade and built using reclaimed waste material.

With three categories – female, male and mixed – we had representatives for both the mixed and male teams, with every team member putting in a sterling effort from start to finish.

The men climbed aboard the same trusted raft we’ve raced on in previous years, with the faith that it would serve us well once more. The raft proved it has plenty of life left in it, carrying the team over the line to take first place in an impressive 25 minutes.

Celebrations Beyond Winning

With glorious sunshine and a wonderful atmosphere, it was another fantastic showcase of the community spirit Olney has to offer. If you missed it this year, be sure to follow Olney Group for more information and key dates to add to your diary.

We love a bit of competitive rivalry at George Davies Turf & Stone, and as proud as we are of the win, supporting local events such as these is what really matters. Occasions like the Olney Raft Race provide a brilliant opportunity to bring people and businesses together and achieve something great.

Congratulations to everyone who took part; thank you to the organisers, and we can’t wait to return next year!