Dyes Inlet Derby and Dash event races to bigger splash this year

Ready to laugh, holler and get wet? Grab a paddle, a partner or two, and join in the boat and canoe races hosted by Silverdale’s Hui Hei Hei Wa’a Outrigger Canoe Club.

Since the club introduced the races three years ago to fill the void left by hydroplane races, the family-oriented events—a human powered boat derby and team canoe races-have been growing each year.

The term boat, of course, is used somewhat loosely. Anything floating can be entered in the derby—bring a bathtub it you would like.

It’s a human-powered boat race, so folks can push, paddle, row, or use any other means necessary, as long as one gets to the finish line.

The derby started with a two-mile course its first year, added a six-mile one last year, and now has an additional 12-mile course.

"The 12-mile was introduced because the experienced paddlers want something more challenging and they want to go longer," the club’s Kim LaFontaine said.

Paddlers from as far as Hawaii, South California and Canada are expected to enter the 12-mile Saturday race.

"If the avid paddlers like the event this year, Silverdale could get all sorts of notoriety," LaFontaine said.

Inexperienced paddlers can either opt for the shorter boat courses

Saturday or the five-person-team outrigger races on Sunday. The teams paddle, and the club provides steersmen and even a few free training classes in the weeks before the race.

"You get a little wet but it’s a blast," said Barry Iles, a festival organizer and canoe racer.

Some may get more than a little wet—who can forget the sheriff’s team that tipped its boat.

For the first time, the club obtained a major sponsor, Washington Mutual, for the races and more teams and boats are expected to participate.

"It’s in the water, and it’s in good weather—one day a year when you can count on the weather—and everyone has fun," LaFontaine said. "Some people even dress in costumes." Even if you don’t want to be in the water, come to watch—it’s just as enjoyable.