Weather didn’t deter drag boats, Formula 1 racers during Sproat Lake Regatta
Published 1:36 pm Wednesday, July 22, 2026
Sproat Lake was alive with competition during the three-day Lightning on the Lake regatta, July 10-12.
The three-day event drew 18 racers, some of them competing in more than one boat and racing category—from drag boats to Formula 1. Racers came from as far away as Kamloops. Others were from Chilliwack, Pritchard, Victoria, Central Saanich, Shawnigan Lake, Youbou and Richmond.
Three drivers from Port Alberni also raced: Peter Wilson, Robbie West and Doug Hedman.
A steady stream of people headed to Sproat Lake Provincial Park on Friday evening, July 10, to meet with the drivers and check out their boats.
On Saturday the weather was cool but dry until the very end of the races when a downpour began. Sunday proved to be windy but competitors stayed on the water.
The winners were:
Unlimited Class — Dan Nikirk (runner up: Kyle Maskall).
Unlimited Class Outboard — Robbie West (runner up: Kyle Schleining).
Flat Bottom V Drive — Don Raymond (runner up: Dan Nikirk).
Jet Boat — Jason Gadsby (runner up: Dan Gadsby).
200 HP and under superstock, Tunnel Hi Performance — Robbie West (runner up: Kyle Schleining).
200HP and Under Pro Stock Tunnel, Hi Performance — was Matt Reed.
F1 — Kyle Maskall (runner up: Brook Butler).