A quarter century of Dragon Boating in Woodstock

The breast cancer survivor teams held a moving display for current and past members at the start of the competition. (Ron Yuzark Photo)

Ron Yuzark, Echo Correspondent

The Woodstock Dragon Boat Festival celebrated its 25th anniversary at the Pittock Conservation Area on Saturday, Aug. 8.

Organized by the Rotary Club of Woodstock, the landmark event brought together paddlers, volunteers, and spectators for a full day of racing, fundraising, and community spirit. All scheduled races were completed before a fast moving storm system arrived later in the afternoon, allowing teams to finish their heats and the final distance challenge without interruption.

Teams from across Oxford County and beyond competed in three 500 metre heats on Pittock Lake, with the top performers advancing to the demanding 2,000 metre final. Divisions included community, industrial, emergency services, financial services, breast cancer survivor teams, women’s crews, university groups, and youth challenges. The 25th anniversary also marked the continued partnership with Pharmasave as title sponsor, supporting the festival’s role as a major Rotary fundraiser for local charities and community initiatives. A total of 33 registered teams took part in this year’s festival, filling the north shore of Pittock Conservation Area with colour, energy, and the unmistakable rhythm of dragon boat drumming.

Spectators enjoyed free admission and gathered along the shoreline to cheer on paddlers. Food trucks, local vendors, and Rotary volunteers helped create a lively festival atmosphere, making the event a highlight of Woodstock’s summer calendar. The Rotary Club expressed gratitude to sponsors, volunteers, paddlers, and spectators whose support has sustained the festival for a quarter century.

Planning for the 2027 Woodstock Dragon Boat Festival will begin later this year.