This weekend marks the 29th Annual Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Races again held on the waters of False Creek in a race that will test the mental and physical abilities as well as the overall stamina of all competitors.
The race’s mark Canada’s longest running event of this kind outside of Hong Kong in an event featuring traditional Dragon Boats.
The paddles hit the water in False Creek June 24th at 8 AM with the start of the races and wrap up Sunday June 25th.
Many elite teams come from around the Globe to challenge the waters in the 500 meter course that will see over 200 teams compete.
It all kicks-off Friday evening with the traditional blessing of the boats, an event that occurs prior to the races on the weekend, and given all the festivities around the area, Friday comes alive with live performances on the main stage to welcome everyone for this years event.
As well a gala is also slated on the agenda for the fifth consecutive year that will feature a race survivors showdown and of course the inaugural Barrier Reef Canada Cup.
This is run in partnership with the Rick Hansen Foundation and unfortunately a closed event to the public.
Saturday morning is when the action begins on the water with numerous races running from (as Dolly Parton sang) “8 AM to 5 PM”, which is close enough for my liking) as well as music on the main stage.
If you are looking for more to see, hit the well known Granville Island Brewing Company Beer Garden and the West Pop-up performance area.
The opening ceremonies will feature the CHMB AM 1320 Variety Show and following the ceremonies the races will continue until dusk on the shores of False Creek.
The race day re-convenes on Sunday morning kicking off at 8 AM wrapping up at 5 PM, with the final race at the Concord Pacific.
The infamous Guts and Glory Mixed team event will see a total of 16 boats place paddle to the water taking two complete laps around false Creek.
Plenty of food and beverages for every, so make plans to soak on the weekend with the Sun, the Fun and the 2017 Dragon Boat Races.
Temperatures are expected to be hot and humid, with a high of 29 degrees for the 29th Annual Dragon Boat Festival.
.Crowds are expected to be in excess of 100,000 on the shore of False Creek; so be courteous to what is going on and enjoy the festivities at the 29th Annual Dragon Boat Festival.
Thanks to Bruce Nolte for the info.
