Sydney’s famous Manly Inflatable Boat Race returns to Shelly Beach

VIDEO: The Manly Inflatable Boat Race, one of Sydney’s most popular events, is back on this weekend — here is how you can get involved.

FROM blow-up palm trees to Donald Trump impersonators, there’s no limit to what you might see at the annual Manly Inflatable Boat Race.

15/2/18 (LR) Emma Luise Shugg (16), Archie Waddell (17) and Isabella Chittenden (16) at Shelly Beach. Picture: Adam Yip / Manly Daily

One of Sydney’s most popular water-based events — named community event of the year in Manly Council’s 2016 Australia Day Awards — the race is on at Shelly Beach on Sunday.

It’s a chance for people to dress up in wacky costumes — with inflatable boats to match.

“It’s a wonderful, happy day for everyone,” race director Denver Beven said.

Competitors take part in the annual Manly Inflatable Boat Race at Shelley Beach. Competitors and their boats pack the water at the start of the race. Picture: Toby Zerna

The event is in its 14th year and proceeds go to cancer charity Tour de Cure — Riding To Cure Cancer.

Race participants need to be able to swim and have to be a minimum of 12 years old.

Competitors take part in the annual Manly Inflatable Boat Race at Shelley Beach. Competitors at the start line before the start of the race. Picture: Toby Zerna

Entrants aged from 12 to 18 are required to be in the same inflatable boat as an adult.

The course, starting and finishing at Shelly Beach, is about 1km and competitors need to have their own inflatable raft.

Competitors take part in the annual Manly Inflatable Boat Race at Shelley Beach. Nick Draper and his entry 'unsuccessful unicorns' celebrates as he and his team mates near the finish line. Picture: Toby Zerna

Entrants must register first at the tent next to Manly Life Saving Club before heading to Shelly Beach for the start of the race.

Tickets cost $55 online or $60 on the day.

Details

When: Sunday, February 25, 10.30am. Registration open 8.45am to 9.45am.

Where: Race starts at Shelly Beach, registration next to Manly Life Saving Club.

For more information go to facebook.com/ManlyInflatableBoatRace.