SINGAPORE - Environmental protection was highlighted at this year's Singapore River Regatta dragon boat race.

Over two days, 349 organisations and clubs competed in 23 categories, the People's Association (PA) said in a media release on Sunday.

Bobby the hawksbill turtle, Project Blue WaVe's mascot, was present to help promote environmental conservation and remind participants to dispose of their litter before they left the Singapore River.

Launched in October, Project Blue WaVe is a PA Water-Venture initiative to heighten environmental awareness and encourage more to step forward to play their part in conservation efforts.

"Over the decades, we have seen residents from various age groups and races all over Singapore come together to enjoy a common sport through the Singapore River Regatta. This time around, we want to enable participants to be involved in a race that not just focuses on dragon boating, but also highlights the importance of keeping our water bodies clean," said Dr Chia Shi-Lu, Singapore Dragon Boat Association president.

Jointly organised by the People's Association (PA) Water-Venture, the Singapore Dragon Boat Association (SDBA) and the Civil Service Club (CSC), the annual Singapore River Regatta is one of Singapore's longest-running iconic water sport event. This year's was the 32rd edition.

The SIM Alumni team came in first in the National Premier (Open) category, the Home Team Sports & Recreation Association team clinched the top spot in the Public Service (Active Ager) category, while TJ Seahawk 2D team topped the PA GRO (Intergeneration) category.

Minister of State for Health Lam Pin Min graced the event.