Question 1

What is the Pink Paddles for Cancer Research event?

Accepted Answer

It is a Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Sprint Relay Race in a team challenge format.
 
The event was the vision of Bob Purdy, a local SUP enthusiast who raised awareness around environmental stewardship and being kind to one another. The event is a means to raise funds for the BC Cancer Foundation in the area of nutrition research that was of importance to Bob who unfortunately lost his challenge with cancer.
 
The event will be held at Willows Beach on July 7 at the same time as the Six Pack SUP race series' Victoria SUP Challenge and will be a feature of the MEC Paddlefest.

Question 2

How does the relay race work?

Accepted Answer

Teams of four will compete for bragging rights in a Sprint Race that will take each team member out 50m from the beach, around a buoy, and back to hand off their board to the next paddler. There will be multiple heats to determine the fastest team. Four teams will compete per heat. When all four teams have paddled the heat will end. The top 2 teams will advance to the next heat. Teams will race in at least 2 races.
There will also be bonus races on the Red Dragon four-person board and other fun relays (time permitting).

Question 3

What kind of teams are there?

Accepted Answer

Anyone can form a team (for example, corporate, family, friends, racers, non-racers, or youth (all members must be under 18 to form a Youth Team)). We encourage teams to have at least one female paddler per team.

Question 4

Are there awards?

Accepted Answer

You bet! There will be awards for the:
Top TWO individual fundraisers
Top fundraising team
Fastest youth team
Fastest team
Best Team Costume
 
Each youth participant will receive a chocolate participation medal!!
 
Every team member is entered into a draw to win a three-piece Red Paddle Co. travel paddle.
 
In addition, $100 Coastline Surf and Sport gift certificates will be presented to each of the four members of the first team that raises $1,000!!

Question 5

Do I need to know how to paddleboard?

Accepted Answer

Stand Up Paddleboarding is an easy sport to learn by anyone! There will be easy boards for beginners.
 
If you would like to learn or improve your paddling skills before the event, contact Brian Raymer at South Island SUP (778-679-1423, braymer2@gmail.com) to schedule a discounted $20 one-hour intro to Stand Up Paddleboarding lesson. Mention you are participating in the Pink Paddles for Cancer Research event.

Question 6

Do I need to own a paddleboard?

Accepted Answer

No, all paddling equipment will be provided (boards, paddles, and life jackets).

Question 7

Do I need to know how to swim?

Accepted Answer

The event is being held in the shallow waters at Cadboro Bay. You do not need to know how to swim but you should be comfortable in the water. Life jackets must be worn and will be provided.

Question 8

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

Wear a costume to show your team spirit! A prize for Best Team Costumes will be awarded!
Be prepared to have FUN and get wet so wear a bathing suit or quick dry clothing, and bring a change of clothing. It’s easiest to go barefoot on the board.

Question 9

What if there is inclement weather?

Accepted Answer

The event will proceed, rain or shine provided the wind is conducive to safe, fun paddling. Bob Purdy paddled 2,100 consecutive days so nothing is going to keep us from having a FUN-filled day!

Question 10

Is the event open to the public?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all spectators are welcome and can even form a last minute team! Invite your friends and family to come cheer you on. There will be a BBQ hosted by Surfrider Foundation Vancouver Island that will be by donation.

Question 11

When and where does the event take place and what is the schedule?

Accepted Answer

July 7th, Willows Beach
(on the beach at the south end of Esplanade Street near the washrooms)

The following event schedule is subject to change. Check the event Facebook page closer to the time for any schedule updates.

Event Details (aka FAQs)