Under the radiant summer sun, the waters of Blackie Spit Park transformed into a bustling hub of excitement. On July 13, 2024, we welcomed 28 teams from across the Lower Mainland to compete in epic water relays for our annual Champion of the Crescent paddleboard event, presented by EllisDon. With the community’s support, an astounding $218,346 was raised in support of youth mental health programs.
On the bright and early Saturday morning, preparations for the exciting day ahead were in full swing. Paddlers arrived team by team, getting settled and adding their touches to the event by decorating their tents. The park was buzzing with activity as attendees enjoyed the park games and got their early morning pick-me-ups with Starbucks coffee and pastries from Save-on-Foods.
With the thrilling beats from Go Taiko electrifying the crowd, the opening ceremony for Champion of the Crescent 2024 began. “Approximately 42% of BC’s children and youth reside in the Fraser Health region, with 30% of those young individuals calling Surrey their home,” our President and CEO, Nicole Robson, said in her heartfelt welcome. “Your presence today signifies hope and possibility for these young lives. It means providing crucial mental health support precisely when it is needed most.” The opening ceremony drew to a close with David McFarlane from our Presenting Sponsor, EllisDon, raising the ceremonial paddle high, marking the commencement of the races.
Accompanied by the rhythms of the taiko drummers, teams made their way to the beach, eagerly awaiting the start of the race. As the clock ticked down, David McFarlane, along with our Course Sponsor, Houle, raised their flags igniting the beginning of the exhilarating competition on the water.
Amidst the races, laughter echoed in the Fun Zone, sponsored by the Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society. Paddlers enjoyed their breaks playing lawn games, testing their agility on the Surf Sensation, and unwinding under their wonderfully decorated tents while the lively tunes spun by DJ Goodspin filled the atmosphere. Following a thrilling morning, paddlers feasted on a delicious lunch brought by our Picnic Sponsor, Safe Software. Meanwhile, the main stage, sponsored by Flynn Group of Companies, also featured live music from award-winning contemporary Canadian country-rock band, Antonio Larosa.
As the afternoon unfolded, eager anticipation enveloped the park as the time for the award ceremonies drew near. Geneva Healey, Fraser Health Director, Child and Youth, Young Adult Mental Health and Substance Use Services, delivered an impassioned speech. “Addressing the problem early is key to preventing it from getting worse,” said Geneva Healey. “We must look after our mental health just like we do with our physical health.”
The testimonial from our youth guest speaker, Karl, underscored the profound impact of Champion of the Crescent, inspiring all in attendance. “Seeing a fundraiser like this gives me so much hope for kids who are in the position that I was at their age,” said Karl. “I firmly believe that they will be okay, even if they don’t see it.”
Following these captivating words shared, the awards were presented, with the Surrey Fire SUPerstars from the Surrey Fire Fighters Charitable Society triumphantly claiming the coveted Champion of the Crescent trophy. Dr. Randeep Gill from Surrey Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Department and the EllisDominators from EllisDon won the prestigious Above and Beyond awards for their exceptional achievements in online peer-to-peer fundraising. Collectively, the teams and individuals rallied with their friends and family to raise $9,608 through peer-to-peer fundraising.
After an enthralling race on the water, the ranks of the top three finishers were secured, culminating in an outpour of big smiles, resounding cheers, and the ringing of cowbells. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every paddler who wholeheartedly contributed their efforts for youth mental health.
As Champion of the Crescent drew to a close, we thank every paddler, guest, volunteer, and colleague who played a pivotal role in the success of the event. In celebration of a remarkable accomplishment, we proudly announce the grand total of $218,346 raised. As Surrey Memorial Hospital is the regional centre for youth mental health, the funds raised from this event will support children and adolescents from all over Fraser Health, providing them with the best resources and services possible. Mental health is a health issue, and we are delighted to see the community gather together to support this important cause.
Special thank you to our Race Director, Bryan Tasaka and his brilliant team at Mind Over Mountain for another successful year paddling for youth mental health, Go Taiko, DJ Goodspin, Antonio Larosa Band, Crescent Beach Lifeguard Corp, Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue, and South Delta Watersports.
Champion of the Crescent 2024 would not be possible without the support of our sponsors:
Congratulations to this year’s winners:
- First place: Surrey Fire SUPerstars (Surrey Fire Fighters Charitable Society)
- Second place: EllisDon Richmond (EllisDon)
- Third place: Surrey Fire Probies (Surrey Fire Fighters Charitable Society)
- Sea Turtle: Jacob Bros
- Above and Beyond Individual: Dr. Randy Gill
- Above and Beyond Team: EllisDominators
Check out some photos from the event:
