ICE CANOE RACE at Quebec City Carnival (le Grand Défi des Glaces)

Cold, ice and frigid waters? These are things most people avoid; however, at Quebec City Carnival the legendary ice canoe race is what many consider to be the main event. Courageous teams brave the elements to compete against each other along the St. Lawrence River.
Having had the opportunity to try ice canoeing with Audrey, we both have absolutely mad respect for the athletic prowess and sheer bravery of the participants. There are not many things I've tried before that have scared me quite like being out on the river dodging massive slabs of ice. The skill of the participants to navigate the waters is truly impressive.
In terms of the event, crews of five athletes push their canoe across giant slabs of ice and row in waters featuring tides of over 15 feet and ice blocks weighing several tonnes. If it sounds like madness let me assure you - it is!
For maximum traction on the ice, athletes wear special shoes featuring bolts screwed to the bottom. Fiberglass canoes are a minimum 250 pounds ranging in length from 6 to 8.5 meters. Considering ice canoeing once featured wooden canoes merely meant for transportation, the sport has truly evolved over the years!
The Association des Coureurs en Canot à Glace du Québec (ACCGQ) was formed in 1984 to organise and standardise races. Six races are accredited by the ACCGQ: La Grande Traversée Casino de Charlevoix, La Course en canot du Carnaval, La course de la banquise de Portneuf, Trois-Rivières Extrême, le Défi Canot à Glace Montréal, and le Grand Défi des Glaces. The latter is the biggest event. It is run during the Quebec Winter Carnival, at Quebec City every February.
ICE CANOE RACE at Quebec City Carnival (le Grand Défi des Glaces) travel video transcript:
One of the most exciting events of Quebec's Winter Carnival was the ice canoe race.
This event is exactly what it sounds like. Teams hit the frigid waters of the Saint Lawrence river with their canoes and race through a mix of ice, slush and water.
Originally, a means of winter transport, ice canoeing has become a sport for the bold and brave. Having had the chance to try this ourselves we had some serious respect for the teams competing.
Here is a look at this legendary event.
This is part of our Travel in Canada series. We're making a series of videos showcasing Canadian culture, Canadian arts, Canadian foods, Canadian religion, Canadian cuisine and Canadian people.
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All photos and video taken by Samuel Jeffery (Nomadic Samuel) and Audrey Bergner (That Backpacker).
Music in this video courtesy of Audio Network