The Ottawa Dragon Boat Foundation (ODBF) is proud to announce the outstanding results of its 2026 ODBF Pledge Challenge, presented during the Tim Hortons Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival presented by Scotiabank, held June 19–21 at Mooney’s Bay.
This year’s summer fundraising campaign has generated an incredible $304,977.24 and counting, in pledges and donations, bringing together paddlers, volunteers, sponsors, donors and the broader community in support of essential local programs that make a lasting difference across Ottawa.
Benefiting Five Distinguished Local Charities
The 2026 ODBF Pledge Challenge supports five remarkable organizations delivering critical services to Ottawa residents, with funds helping to strengthen youth development, food security, grief support and healthy living initiatives.
The 2026 recipient charities are:
- Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa – Walk This Way Program
- Nutrition Blocs – Hot Breakfast & Summer Nutrition Program
- The Partage Vanier Food Bank
- Roger Neilson Children’s Hospice – Young Grievers Camp
- Tim Hortons Foundation Camps
Each organization represents an essential part of Ottawa’s charitable landscape, providing life-changing programs for children, youth and families throughout the National Capital Region.
Additional donations have been made to support WCPD Foundation and St. John Ambulance.
Top Fundraising Teams
ODBF proudly congratulates the ODBF Pledge Challenge Champions, three incredible teams who led this year’s fundraising efforts:
- Draggin’ Docs – $49,275
- Fleet of Foote Jetsam – $38,148
- Chinatown Showboat – $20,021
These outstanding teams demonstrated that the spirit of dragon boating extends far beyond the water, rallying their communities to create meaningful impact through generosity and teamwork.
Top Individual Fundraisers
ODBF also recognizes this year’s top individual fundraisers whose dedication inspired countless donors:
- Dan Acton (Fleet of Foote Jetsam) – $9,296
- Lisa Rosenkrantz (Draggin’ Docs) – $5,527
- Andrea Sabean (Party Oars) – $5,163
Their passion and commitment exemplify the extraordinary community spirit that continues to define the ODBF Pledge Challenge.
Growing Community Impact
Since its inception, the Ottawa Dragon Boat Foundation’s fundraising initiatives—including the annual ODBF Pledge Challenge —have raised well over $6 million in support of local charities and community initiatives.
Every dollar raised through the ODBF Pledge Challenge directly strengthens organizations that improve lives across Ottawa, ensuring that the impact of the Tim Hortons Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival extends far beyond race weekend.
“Every year our paddling community reminds us that dragon boating is about so much more than racing. The generosity, passion and commitment shown by our teams, fundraisers and donors continues to inspire us. Thanks to their incredible efforts, these funds will help local organizations provide essential programs that improve lives throughout our community.” said Shelley Freake-Smyth, ODBF Director – Fundraising & Sport “The ODBF Pledge Challenge represents the very best of what our community is all about—bringing people together to make a real difference. Every team, every donor and every volunteer has played a part in creating another fantastic year of tangible impact. Congratulations to our outstanding fundraisers and heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make this incredible achievement possible.” added Antony Cooper, ODBF Director – Operations | Marketing | Sponsorship | Artistic Programming
About the ODBF Pledge Challenge
The ODBF Pledge Challenge is a cornerstone of the Tim Hortons Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival presented by Scotiabank, encouraging teams and individuals to raise funds for local charities while celebrating teamwork, community spirit and giving back. Through the generosity of participants and supporters, the campaign continues to create lasting positive change throughout Ottawa.
About the Ottawa Dragon Boat Foundation
The Ottawa Dragon Boat Foundation is dedicated to building a healthier, stronger and more connected community by supporting local charitable organizations through fundraising initiatives and events. Since 2003, ODBF has helped improve the lives of thousands of people across Ottawa by investing in programs that create meaningful, lasting impact.
