Dragon Boat West

This past weekend Banff held its first ever dragon boat festival at Lake Minnewanka.  It was small-scale and cozy, but big on fun!  Most of the teams were from Banff and the Bow Valley area.  There were also some Calgary teams and those super classy ladies from Kelowna.  Many of the Banff paddlers were rookies, but what they lacked in experience, they made up for in enthusiasm!  In talking to some of them, it seems that many of them have caught the "bug", and we will see some keen dragon boaters in Banff in the future.  The event was well organized, and after a few initial hiccups in the loading and starting, the races went very smoothly.  The shuttle service from the townsite was first class with comfy Brewster coach buses, and very friendly drivers - they were even out cheering on teams between their runs!  The paddler's party on Saturday night was a blast!  The volunteers and the people of Banff in general were wonderful, gracious hosts.  I hope they hold the event again next year, and I would encourage teams to take part!  Thanks Banff!   

I'll second that. It was a well run event, that really focussed on the paddlers. Great paddlers party, and awesome setting. I'll definitley be back next year.

Out of the six festivals I have participated in this season, this was by far my favourite! :D  It was very well-organized for an inaugural event, focusing on paddlers who in turn focused on teamwork and sportsmanship!  It was well represented by newbies and experienced paddlers alike, who all share the love of being on the water and giving your all.  Thanks to the Banff Lake Louise Tourism group and the Alberta Dragon Boat Race Foundation for hosting a superb event in a spectacular setting. Thanks to all the other paddlers for your comaraderie and for leaving the site as pristine as we found it. Looking forward to doing it all again next year!

I agree!!  And talk about a MAGNIFICENT Site!!  The paddlers party in Banff at The Paddock complete with slide show was a real nice touch too.  I will be back next year.