Champion of the Crescent returns to South Surrey July 23<\/p>\n
Published 12:00 pm Friday, July 3, 2026<\/p>\n
The Champion of the Crescent returns to South Surrey July 23, in a fun and competitive event that also, supports child and youth mental health programs.<\/p>\n
The high-energy paddleboard event features teams of four paddlers who will all compete for a chance to win the coveted Champion of the Crescent trophy in a fast-paced, elimination-style relay race off Crescent Beach\u2019s Blackie Spit Parak.<\/p>\n
The heat ends with a race up the beach to grab the first-place flag.<\/p>\n
Paddlers of all skill levels are welcome to join this friendly, competitive race; pre-race orientation is provided.<\/p>\n
Lifeguards will be on duty for the safety of the paddlers, and equipment is provided.<\/p>\n
Presented by Ellis Don, the Surrey Hospitals Foundation\u2019s annual event is popular every year, bringing the community together in the spirit of friendly competition for an excellent cause.<\/p>\n
More than 75 per cent of mental health conditions begin before the age of 25, Surrey Hospitals Foundation notes on the Champion of the Crescent site, and without early intervention, these challenges can persist into adulthood, impacting education, relationships, and long-term wellbeing.<\/p>\n
Approximately one in five Canadians are diagnosed with a mental illness by age 25, and 70 per cent first experience symptoms before age 18.<\/p>\n
\u201dSurrey is a young and growing city, with nearly a quarter of residents under the age of 20,\u201d the website states.<\/p>\n
The last day to register teams for Champion of the Crescent is Wednesday, July 8.<\/p>\n
On the day of the event \u2014 Thursday, July 23 \u2014 things get underway around 10:30 at Blackie Spit, with an optional paddler orientation set for 11-11:30 a.m.<\/p>\n
Opening ceremonies start at 11:30, with races scheduled to commence from noon until 3 p.m.<\/p>\n
There\u2019s also a shuttle service to and from the South Surrey beach.<\/p>\n