Event Overview

The 2026 Gig Harbor Paddlers Cup will occur  April 25 & 26, 2026 at historic Skansie Brothers Park in downtown Gig Harbor.

This two-day event features competitive racing for expert, novice, and youth paddlers. Vendors will be located on the shore.

*Exhibition SUP Technical Course featuring 1000 meters with 8 buoy turns and up to 8 paddlers on the course at a time! (scroll down to learn more)

DAY 1:  

Inner Harbor Races

We will start the day off with a fun 2.5K distance race for ages 13 and under, new paddlers and adults 60 and over. Competitive and recreational paddlers of all ages can then compete in the 5K/10K distance race and then experience the fun of facing off in head-to-head 100m sprint knock-off races. The Inner Harbor Races are open to youth and adult canoe, kayak, outrigger canoe, para-canoe, and SUP paddlers of any experience level.

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Day 2:  

Dragon Boat Races

Dragon Boat Teams – limited to 9 this year!

Who will be the first team to register? Registration opens January 1, 2026!

Fast, furious, and fun! Companies, community organizations, clubs, schools, or any group can register a dragon boat team (20 paddlers). No experience is necessary – this is a great team-building activity and a huge crowd favorite. Dragon boat training and all equipment will be provided – just bring your team!

Additional Dragon Boat Race Information – CLICK HERE

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MORE FUN ON SUNDAY MORNING!

Exhibition SUP Technical Course & Ancich Waterfront Park Open House!

1000 meters with 8 buoy turns and up to 8 paddlers on the course at a time. Each division will race the course up to 3 times with points for the overall winners.

Based on ICF rules and guidelines for SUP Technical Course races, this new course is going to be fun and exciting for participants and spectators!

Divisions for both Men and Women: Junior, Open, Masters.

SUP Board Divisions: 12’6”, 14’ and Unlimited to be determined by registration.

This brings the excitement of board to board racing as paddlers jockey for position from one buoy to the next with a sprint to the finish line!

And even if you aren’t racing, stop by Ancich Waterfront Park to take a tour of this city park and its amenities and explore informational booths from local organizations and community partners!