Our event logo was designed by Darlene Gait, a Coast Salish First Nation's artist.
2023 INFO
The Head & Tail of the Gorge 2023 was held on the weekend of October 14-15. We had 522 athletes from 22 clubs. Great weather. Amazing costumes. See you all next year!
Details and race results at RegattaCentral.
ABOUT THIS REGATTA
The Head & Tail of the Gorge regattas are an iconic BC event, featuring exciting racing and spectacular viewing opportunities, in the heart of beautiful Victoria BC. Teams attend from across BC, Alberta, and the Pacific Northwest, with some coming from as far away as the Maritimes or Europe. By participating, you are contributing to the mythical story of rowing the Gorge and conquering it. Have fun and enjoy the challenge!
The Head of the Gorge (map) starts near Victoria's historic Old Town, runs north under three bridges, shoots through the rushing waters of Tillicum Narrows, and finishes at Esquimalt Park, Most crews wear costumes for the race, and there are prizes for best costumes, The "Angel of the Narrows" guides crews through the rapids of the narrows.
The Tail of the Gorge (map) starts in the beautiful Portage Inlet, and runs south under the Craigflower Bridge, to finish back at Esquimalt Park. This regatta features relatively calm water and lovely scenery.
Gorge Narrows Rowing Club is proud to have taken over hosting this regatta. Our focus for this event is on community and bringing together athletes, volunteers and community members to share an appreciation for the gorge waterway and the sport of rowing.
We give thanks to the Lekwungen People of the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations, whose traditional lands and waterways we share daily.
Course Update
Please click here for the latest information on the course, including a video "row through".
Regatta Chair's Choice - Oarca Coastal Rowing Club, with a costume that spanned 2 boats. A boat of orca killer whales chasing down a boat of salmon.
Best overall Club effort - University of Calgary for multiple costumed boats
Best Morning flight costume - Vancouver Rowing Club - Harry Potter
Best Afternoon flight costume - Victoria City Rowing Club - Noah's Ark
Most entertaining in the warmup area - University of British Columbia Women's 2x - the cops
Our 2023 Sponsors