Paddle for Health 2026

Welcome to Paddle for Health - the annual celebration of strength, community, and spirited paddling in support of Island Kids Cancer Association (IKCA)! IKCA supports Vancouver Island and Gulf Island families facing childhood cancer through every step of the journey. Through a holistic approach that prioritizes community connections, practical resources, and mental health and wellbeing, IKCA recognizes the family as a unit. Join us on September 12th for a day at the beach! It'll be your choice to paddle voyageur canoes, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, or cheer on your team from the beach as we all unite for a fantastic cause! Leading up to this exciting event, you and your team will be making waves of your own by raising funds that directly contribute to IKCA's vital support services. For the last 11 years, Paddle for Health has been a dedicated FUNdraiser enhancing the lives of cancer patients and their families through the power of paddle sports and community support! Join us in making a splash for a cause that truly makes a difference! When: September 12 2025 - Please arrive by 8:30AM PST
Where: Willows Beach and ParkThe paddling happens from Willows Beach Park to Gyro Beach & back again (about 7km). It is not a race and we travel as one big group.
Event Day Timeline: 08:30AM - Padders arrive 09:45AM - Under the watchful eyes of our on-water safety crew, launch from Willows Beach. We follow the shoreline past Cattle Point and into Caddy Bay then on to Gyro Park Beach for a 15 minute stretch and snack stop. We’ll follow our route back to Willows Beach.12:30PM - land back on Willow's Beach. Once we return there will be food provided by Kattia's Kitchen (complimentary to all registrants), prizes, games, and awards!
Who: Family friendly! People of all ages and skill levels including 1st time paddlers (children require a guardian). Don’t have a kayak/voyageur canoe/SUP – borrow one from us (limited quantity so register early). Registration: Voluntary $50 donation. Fundraising: Raise what you can. $100 or more qualifies you for a Paddle for Health T-shirt!Top Fundraising Team and Top Individual Fundraiser AwardsBest Team Costume AwardCause & Beneficiary: Island Kids Cancer AssociationFundraiser Recourse GuideNow that you've registered, please use this Fundraiser Resource Guide Gain more of an understanding of Island Kids Cancer Association and what they do!Learn some fundraising tips!Download images that can be shared on your social media pages!See email templates that can be sent to friends and family! We truly believe that no family should face childhood cancer alone, and with your help, we can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. For event inquiries: info@paddleforhealth.caFor registration platform inquiries: support@raceroster.comPhone Support: 1-855-969-5515Monday to Friday – 6 am to 5 pm PSTSaturdays— 4 am to 5 pm PSTSundays — 4 am to 12 pm PSTFor all other inquiries: jenna@ikca.ca