Competitive Outrigger

Are you ready to take your paddling to the next level? The Ottawa River Canoe Club (ORCC) offers a pathway for paddlers looking to train and compete in outrigger canoe (OC). With the ultimate goal of racing at the Queen Liliʻuokalani Race in Hawaii in 2026, our outrigger athletes will take part in structured training, expert coaching, and exciting race opportunities along the way.

Whether you’re an experienced outrigger paddler or transitioning from sprint kayak, dragon boat, or another paddling discipline, this program offers the challenge and community you need to push your paddling further.

Program Details

End Goal!

Create a competitive OC6 team with the goal of competing at local/ provincial events, and the ultimate goal of competing at the Queen Lili’uokalani race in Hawaii!

Training Pathway

How it Works

  • Athletes pursuing competitive OC train through the Masters program, which develops the core skills and fitness needed for long-distance events.
  • As we approach OC regattas, the number of OC6 practices will increase to prepare athletes for racing.

Training Pathways

  • Masters Program (recommended): Structured training, coaching, and racing opportunities with a focus on outrigger. This is the best option for athletes aiming for local races and long-term goals such as the Queen Liliʻuokalani Race in Hawaii (2026).

  • Independent Crews: Athletes may rent an OC and coordinate their own training with a crew. Please note: offsite rentals are not permitted — ORCC OCs cannot be rented for use at external events. This option has less support, as the program’s priority is developing outrigger athletes through the Masters group.

Training Schedule

The training schedule is integrated with our Masters program.

2025 & 2026 Events

2025 Events

  • June 7: MCC Open Water Challenge (Mississauga, ON)
  • Aug 10: Wai Nui Why Not? Race (Oakville, ON)
  • Sept 13: Toronto International Outrigger Challenge TSCC - optional
  • Sept 20: Ottawa River Paddle Challenge - (Ottawa, ON)

Projected 2026 Events

  • MCC Open Water Challenge- early June (Mississauga, ON)
  • Wai Nui Why Not? Race- early August (Oakville, ON)
  • Queen Lili’uokalani race- end of August (Hawaii, USA)
  • TIOC September (Toronto ON)
  • Ottawa River Paddle Challenge- September (Ottawa, ON)

Questions?

Reach out to outrigger@orcc.ca for any questions!