Exciting Announcement: Canadian 2024 OC Sprints Championships at Delta Deas Rowing Club!

The Canadian Outrigger Racing Association (CORA) is gearing up to host the Canadian 2024 OC Sprints Championships on April 27 and 28 at the Delta Deas Rowing Club venue. This exciting event will showcase some of the best outrigger paddlers in the country as they compete in thrilling sprint races.

If you’ve never witnessed an outrigger race before, there’s one important thing to remember – don’t shout out “Go, rowers, go!” as outrigger paddlers actually move forward, not backward. Ronald Chin, president of CORA, humorously points out this common misconception as he invites spectators to come and cheer on the competitors for free.

The upcoming championships will feature 500-meter and 1,000-meter races, with the latter including challenging turns that promise to add an extra element of excitement for both participants and onlookers. The event holds particular significance this year as it serves as a qualifier for the IVF World Va’a Championships in Hilo, Hawaii this August.

With a large contingent of Canadian athletes vying for a spot on Team Canada, the competition is expected to be fierce. While outrigging is traditionally a Pacific sport, the Deas Island races will attract participants from across Canada and even the United States, with canoes provided by a Tahiti-based company.

CORA aims to establish the Deas Island races as an annual event, taking advantage of the sheltered location and historical significance of outrigger sprint races in the area. Partnering with local organizations, the association is working hard to ensure a successful and memorable championship for all involved.

As the paddlers gear up for the upcoming championships, boaters are reminded to steer clear of the Deas Slough during the event. For more information on the Canadian 2024 OC Sprints Championships, visit www.canadianoutrigger.ca and get ready to witness some thrilling outrigger racing action.