Nearly 700 athletes from across B.C. and beyond are expected to showcase racing, community spirit, and resilience on Victoria’s Gorge Waterway with the South Island Dragon Boat Festival this weekend.
The non-profit Fairway Gorge Paddling Club hosts teams from Oregon, Washington state, Alberta, the Lower Mainland, and a strong contingent of Victoria-based paddlers in the two-day festival July 13 and 14.
The event features 500-metre races and 1,500-metre Guts-&-Glory races involving women, mixed and several breast cancer survivor teams taking part.
Watching dragon boat racing from the shore of the Gorge Waterway at 2940 Jutland Rd. is a great way for spectators to beat the heat and enjoy a fun-filled, family-friendly couple of days of competition, says race director and Fairway Gorge Paddling Club general manager Erik Ages.
“We are thrilled to welcome such a diverse and dedicated group of athletes to the Gorge Waterway,” Ages said. “The energy and camaraderie among the teams are truly inspiring."
The festival showcases the competitive spirit of dragon boat racing and highlights the resilience and strength of the breast cancer survivor teams.
"These athletes are a testament to the power of community and the spirit of perseverance. Their participation adds a deeply meaningful dimension to our event," Ages added.
The Fairway Gorge Paddling Club celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, and this festival is one of three major events to be hosted by the club this summer.
Learn more at fgpaddle.com.