Featured Events
The Events, Explained….
Whether you’re new to standup or have been paddling for a few years, the Kal Classic features events for all levels and ages. And if you are new to the sport, the festival serves as a great way to try out some recreational events/races without any pressure or stress. You can race at your own pace so to speak. Here’s some info on each of the events.
RAIL TRAIL RECREATIONAL CHALLENGE (2.5 Miles): Open/Recreational – All boards
Saturday, August 24
Short Course race for recreational athletes of all ages and levels. Easy going short course in and around the North end of Kalamalka lake. You’ll pass by Bishop’s Bird Sanctuary and blaze a watery trail with other like-minded recreational paddlers across the lake to where the Okanagan Rail Trail meets Kal Lake. Sure there are prizes but it’s more about the fun than the famous. All boards welcome, costumes encouraged!
Who should race this? Anyone who wants to experience a recreational race or use it as a form of exercise or warm up for other events.
WIKI HOLO: Short Course
Saturday, August 24 – Qualifying Heats, Finals
Divided into two or more heats, you’ll sprint from the beach and onto your board and around a short buoy-riddled course. It’s a spectator-friendly event that serves up exciting head-to-head competition. Part 1 of the King & Queen of Kalamalka quest.
Who should race this? Everyone… who want’s to be a part of the funnest event in the Festival. For the Recreational classes, it’s one photo opportunity after another. For the Competitive classes, it’s like Tough Mudder on a paddleboard.
KEIKI HOLO: 400 Yard short course for Kids, 13 & Under
Saturday, August 25 (Any board 12′ in length and shorter)
Here’s a fun event for the kids – They all leave the beach at the same time and paddle around the inner buoys in shallow area for fun and prizes. Any board under 12′ in length.
Who should race this? All kids 13 & Under. They will be divided by age groups and get a short mini clinic before they go for it.
KALAMALKA CROSSING – The Classic event – Open to everyone
Sunday, August 25 – Starts in Oyama, ends at Kal Beach
One of Canada’s most iconic bucket list SUP Races – The Kalamalka Crossing. A scenic 10-mile trek across the full length of the lake. Starting in Oyama on Wood Lake Beach, you’ll dash from the beach around a buoy and then through the channel that connects the two lakes heading North towards Kal Beach. Do it for the exercise, for the challenge, or race it to beat the clock.
Who should race this? Everyone – it’s one of the most beautiful lakes in BC – enjoy it while you can. Newer paddlers should finish between 2.5-3.5 hours while the keeners will reach the beach in under 2 hours.
So, there you have it – hope to see you there.
