Inter-Firm Dragon Boat Challenge builds teams beyond the desk and across the River Lee

Events promoting workplace relationships are an ideal way to encourage communication and trust between staff members. But it’s best to match the challenge to employees’ abilities

Fri, 20 Feb, 2026 - 02:05

Sharon Ní Chonchúir

Crews representing companies and organisations from all over Cork will converge on the River Lee on Saturday, April 18, for a team-building day with a difference. The Inter-Firm Dragon Boat Challenge will involve groups of 16 paddlers working together to race 40ft boats, urged on by the pounding beat of their on-board drummers.

Joya Kuin came up with the idea for this challenge in 2013. She is the communications and strategic development manager of Meitheal Mara, the community boatyard and maritime training centre in Cork that organises the event.