A stunning dragon boat race will be staged on the river Tay this summer at the culmination of the largest Perthshire Adventure Festival to date.
The region has a growing claim to the title of the UK’s outdoor adventure capital, boasting an increasingly vibrant range of top events and attractions.
It is hoped that the biggest showcase of some of the country’s finest white water, climbs, walking and cycling routes will cement that reputation.
Crowning the expanded festival which takes place between June 13 and 15 will be the boat race. The colourful new event will see more than 200 competitors climb into 12 boats to race between the city’s Queens and railway bridges.
It has been organised by the Perthshire Chinese Community Association with assistance from the Dragon Boat Events company.
Hundreds of people will have the chance to enjoy activities throughout the festival, including climbing, kayaking, canoeing, archery, white water rafting, guided walks, zip wires and biking.
The packed programme has been tailored to offer something for families and individuals whose abilities range from novice to expert.
Previous events have been based in and around Aberfeldy, but organisers have chosen to shift the focus to Perth for 2014 to help visitors gain a greater insight into the entire region’s potential.
There will also be a series of talks by top names, such as Olympic canoeing gold medallist Tim Baillie and blind climber Steve Bale.
Mountaineer Stephen Venables will offer an insight into a world of adventure and achievement most can only dream about.
He was the first Briton to climb Everest without supplementary oxygen, reaching the summit alone after climbing by a new route up the gigantic Kangshung Face.
That was a thrilling highlight of a career that has taken him right through the Himalayas, from Afghanistan to Tibet, making the first ascents of many previously unknown mountains.
Councillor Bob Ellis, who has been heavily involved in each of the festivals, both as organiser and participant, said: “This really will be a terrific showpiece for the city of Perth and the surrounding area.
“The event has been held previously in Aberfeldy but we are now looking to capitalise on what we have on the lower reaches of the Tay and in Perth, such as canoeing and kayaking.
“I’m particularly pleased that a dragon boat race will form part of the festival,” Mr Ellis continued.
“During one of the visits to our twin town, Aschaffenburg, I was fortunate enough to be able to take part in such an event and thought it was just brilliant.”
Mr Ellis added: “Perth and Kinross is just such a wonderful place to come visit, play in and enjoy for outdoor activities.
“Whether the challenge is of the level of a ramble up Kinnoull Hill or a climb up the iconic Schiehallion, we have everything here.”