The waters of Howe Sound are again ready for the invasion of the surfskiers.
The second annual Canadian Surfski Championships returns to local waves on Saturday (July 18) and spectators can expect close to 100 paddlers taking on the 21-kilometre course.
Racers start at Porteau Cove and then head towards downtown Squamish, with the finish line along the Mamquam Blind Channel.
The 2015 edition of the event sees the return of last year鈥檚 champion and the sport鈥檚 world champion Sean Rice from South Africa. Competitors are also expected from Australia, South Carolina and California, and there will be a handful of local paddlers.
Organizers expect the start to be particularly hectic, with a $750 prize for the first man and woman to cross the buoy at the two kilometre mark.
Surfskis originated in Australia in 1912 and were used for lifesaving in that country starting in the 1940s. The sport has increased in popularity in recent years due to the versatility of its design and the many recreational opportunities the surfski offers.
The race kicks off at Porteau Cove starting at 2 p.m. on Saturday, with the first racers expected to cross the finish line at around 3:20 p.m. 鈥� depending on the wind.聽
For more information on the event, visit www.canadiansurfskichamps.com.
