The 20th rendition of Pender Harbour’s April Tools Wooden Boat Challenge was one for the record books in terms of attendance, spirited competition, and warm weather on April 29. Eleven adult category teams (up to four participants each) had three hours to construct a tandem stand-up paddleboard from a surprise materials package. Two team members then raced the creations around the community’s government dock.
Finishing first (as in 2022, 2019 and in over half of previous years' events dating back to 2001) were the Fireflies. Repeat contenders and 2016 champs, the Gunboat Bay Challengers came in second. Team Adult Supervision Required took third place. The race-only event for youth competitors paddling sit-in watercraft built earlier in the week saw team Men of War taking top spot.
Hosted by the Pender Harbour Living Heritage Society with help from multiple sponsors and community volunteers, the event also featured free activities for youngsters and a barbecue.
