Canoe race (1997)
Realvideo

The canoe is not only the instrument which made the exploration of North America possible. For centuries it was also the principal means of transport for Canadians.

	© Quebec City, Quebec Winter Carnival

Certain inhabitants of the region converted the canoe into a true professsion. Before bridges linked the two shores of the Saint Lawrence between Quebec and Lévis, canoemen were responsible for transporting mail and provisions, braving the hazards of wind, river currents and ice which plagued the river during the winter months. The advent of the steamboat at the end of the 19th century relegated use of the canoe to sporting competitions. Since 1894, the most important canoeing event has been the race organized by the Quebec Winter Carnival.

The canoe race, over a distance of 3.2 kilometres, is undeniably the Quebec Winter Carnival's most popular attraction. It draws crowds on both sides of the Saint Lawrence, and spectators both from abroad and nearby are dazzled by the spectacular show of prowess. This test of skill and physical strength pits amateur teams against professionals in a fierce struggle and sometimes very difficult conditions. The crossing takes 23 minutes when the river is clear, as was the case in 1964. In the 1958 race, though, only four of the twenty-one teams participating in the race were able to finish, due to the wind, ice and high waves.