Nanaimo is home to an unusual race, but one that has gained international reputation. From the website of the
Loyal Nanaimo Bathtub Society, this blurb explains the history ...
"Nanaimo harbor was the scene of a bathtub race extravaganza at the first race in 1967 Canadas’ 100 birthday and its’ Centennial year.. As the City of Nanaimo's "Centennial Event" that year, close to 200 tubbers (in every type of craft imaginable) entered the fun competition and amazingly, 47 completed the 36 mile course to Vancouver's Fisherman's Cove across the straits of Georgia. Now the "Great RACE" finishes at Departure Bay in Nanaimo covering a very grueling course that leaves Nanaimo harbor circles Entrance Island and then up to and around Winchelsea Island and then back to Departure Bay in Nanaimo. In the early days it was indeed a challenge to just get past the starting line in the choppy confusion caused by an extra 785 small and large observation and escort boat in Nanaimo harbor. From the confusion of a first time bathtub race 45 years ago, the Nanaimo to Nanaimo "Great" INTERNATIONAL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BATHTUB RACE & 4 day Nanaimo Marine Festival has evolved. Where once a select band of tubbers were the highlight they now share the spotlight with many other land and water events which are interesting and often spectacular to watch."
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| Grey skies and choppy waters made for challenging conditions this year |
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| A close up look at the boat made from a bathtub |
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| The Sailpast on Wheels parade |
These guys don't take themselves too seriously. Click on that link above and have a read of their website. I guarantee a chuckle or two.
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