Dragons Defy the Deluge: Cornwall Waterfest Races Thrive Despite Friday’s Downpour

Friday’s deluge did not deter the dragons from populating the Cornwall Canal.  On Saturday, August 10, the 12th Cornwall Waterfest Dragon Boat Races were held with 23 teams from Cornwall, Ottawa, Montreal, and Peterborough.  The energy was palpable as teams competed in heats of two or three boats.  Amid the action, local food and craft vendors sold their wares while DJ Shellshock’s music energized the crowds.

The afternoon heat started with three teams composed of cancer survivors:  Dragon Flies Breast Cancer Survivor Group from Peterborough, Busting Out Ottawa, and West Island Dragons from Montreal. A special ceremony followed with the three teams blowing soap bubbles as Syd Gardner sang accompanied by his guitar.

The races culminated with an award ceremony celebrating the top three teams in each division.

Race Results:

Community Division

1. Emard Lumber
2. CrossFit Cornwall 
3. Fins to Win (River Institute)

Club Division

1. Paddlin’ Hellfish
2. Fleet of Foote
3. BC Luna Realty

Ladies Division

1. Blades of Glory
2. PSirens
3.  West Island Dragons