The annual Victor Simonson Dragon Boat Festival welcomed teams from across Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast and Powell River. With 15 teams comprised of women, men and youth, the event was held in conjunction with Comox Nautical Days at Marina Park Aug. 6.
“This is a fun, annual event for the whole community,” said Leon Van Noorden, race director. “Teams competing for the coveted and spectacular women’s and mixed division trophies, while immersing themselves into festival weekend in Comox.”
Team chants could be heard throughout the marina as dragon boat teams gathered, sung and raced their way to victory. The results were close, however, the women’s division saw first place awarded to River Spirit, second place to Flying Dragons and thir to Hope Afloat.
Prevailing Wins won the mixed division, followed by the Dragon Riders and Mackenzie Mussels in second and third respectively.
“Between our spirit award presented to River Spirit Dragon Boat team, the Mystery Race where paddler’s were mixed with members from all teams and challenged to complete a fun course of turns, tunnels and hand-paddling, and the competition of each heat of races, it was a fabulous and fun day for all participants and spectators,” said Amy Bauman, recreation programmer with the Town of Comox.
Next year’s festival is Aug. 5.
FMI: (250) 339-2255.