Kayakers, canoeists and stand up paddle boarders are going head to head - or paddle to paddle - racing to the finish line in the very first Downwind Toonie Race, Saturday (June 26).
Boats of all shapes, sizes and lengths can compete in the 麻豆社国产Paddling Club (SPC) event for a fee of $2, plus $9 if participant is does not have insurance with Canoe Kayak BC.
"You basically come there, with any type of a boat and you race in various categories with boats that are similar to yours," said race co-ordinator Ian Lowe.
"If you're comfortable in a boat by yourself, you'll be fine. You totally don't have to be a racer, because most people haven't raced a kayak in their lives."
Lowe said SPC is modeling the inaugural race after a few increasingly popular races in Vancouver that attract nearly 150 boats per race.
"We're going to do this and maybe one or two more this summer as a test and come next year, if indeed there is an interest we're going to conduct weekly or biweekly races."
Valhalla Pure Outfitters will be onsite providing rental boats to anyone interested, which Lowe says will likely come in handy.
"For some people who might be interested, it's perfect."
Racers will also have the opportunity to purchase a SPC membership at the toonie race as well.
Participants should meet at the parking lot across from the 麻豆社国产Adventure Centre located on Loggers Lane. The 7.5 kilometre course starts nearby in the Mamquam Blind Channel and heads out towards Nexen Beach and heads back to the start-finish line.
A shorter four-kilometre course race is also available.
"We've designed the course, so it's a nice safe course. It shouldn't be wind affected."
Lowe estimates about 20 participants will compete in Saturday's event but he hopes that number will increase by the second race.
"Hopefully a few more [participants] for the next one which we plan to have in July."
Lowe said future races would have a different course each time.
"There's lots of water out there for us to paddle in."
Registration starts at 5 p.m., a one-hour seminar takes place at 6 p.m. and the race starts at 7 p.m. The race after party will kick off at the Howe Sound Brew Pub at 8 p.m.
For more information visit www.squamishpaddlingclub.com or contact Dave Berrisford at [email protected], or Lowe at [email protected].
