The splash of paddles returns to the Gorge Waterway this weekend when 36 teams battle to be the best during the Vancouver Island Dragon Boat Festival.
Crews from Vancouver Island, the Lower Mainland, Washington state and Oregon come together for two full days of racing, culture and community celebration Aug. 23 and 24.
“Dragon boat racing is about more than competition,” spokesperson Maggie Henderson said in a news release. “It’s the power of positivity and paddling – coming together so athletes, supporters, and our community can connect, celebrate, and lift each other up.”
Hosted by the Fairway Gorge Paddling Club, the festival features a unique dragon boat pentathlon – five different racing formats that test speed, stamina, strategy, and teamwork. Crews race in 500m, 200m, and 100m sprints, take on the gruelling 1500m Guts & Glory endurance oval, and close out with 500m flag relays.
“This festival showcases the best of teamwork, respect, and the joy of paddling together on one of the most beautiful racing venues in the world,” Henderson said. “When the drums start and the boats surge forward, you feel the energy ripple through the crowd. It’s about friendship, resilience, and the joy of being part of something bigger.”
Saturday racing begins at 8 a.m. and Sunday starts at 8:30, culminating in grand finals at 3 p.m. followed by medal ceremonies at the Victoria paddling club.
Beyond the water, festival-goers can enjoy a lively paddlers’ village, food trucks and vendors along with retail booths, artisan displays, and community groups at the Fairway Gorge Paddling Club, 2940 Jutland Rd.
