Story
The 2008 Marathon Canoe and Kayak National Championships received $5,000 from Hosting BC. The event attracted 71 athletes, aged 14-79, who came from the US and from five provinces/territories. There were 200 spectators and a webcast audience estimated at 10,000. Thirty volunteers supported the event.
The Championships introduced local residents to an environmentally friendly sport that can be enjoyed throughout a lifetime. Direct economic benefit included increased revenues for hospitality industries and local suppliers with many athletes and families staying post-event to enjoy tourism destinations in the region. Organizers were proud that youth and members of the local First Nations community were significantly involved in the event. A canoe purchased for the event was left on site for community use.
