The Town of Comox and VI Paddling are thrilled to announce the annual Comox Dragon Boat Festival, taking place on Saturday, September 14, 2024. This energy-packed day of dragon boat racing will once again take place at Marina Park in Comox, where paddlers from across Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and the Lower Mainland will compete in thrilling 200-metre races.
“We are excited to welcome everyone back to the Comox Valley after the resounding success of the 2023 event, “said Tom Arnold, President of VI Paddling. “Teams from across the region gather to race in both standard (20 paddler) and small (10-paddler) dragon boats. We initiated the small boat race in 2023, the only 10-paddler dragon boat race in BC, and both participants and the crowd loved it.”
“As a partner in this event, the Town of Comox is looking forward to having people gather at Comox Marina Park for this year’s event,” said Comox Mayor, Nicole Minions. “The growth of this competition, combined with the stunning backdrop that the Comox Valley, presents a significant opportunity for our region with attendance expected to reach over 900. This event is on target to be the second-largest dragon boat race on Vancouver Island.”
Registered teams represent a wide range of experience levels and ages. Among them is the newly formed Comox-based team, Wake Makers, who will be competing with just four practices under their belts. The event will also feature youth teams, like the Dragon Riders, whose youngest members are 12 years old, as well as senior teams like Prevailing Wins, which includes paddlers in their 70s.
Everyone is encouraged to come out and cheer on the racers in what promises to be the biggest Comox Dragon Boat Festival yet. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a curious spectator, there is something for everyone at this exciting event. For all the event details, visit: vipaddling.com/2024-comox-dragon-boat-festival
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Media Contact:
Nicole Minions, Mayor
nminions@comox.ca
250-339-2202