Canada Day celebrations were hot and spicy in Langford.
As part of the festivities at Starlight Stadium, hungry folks competed in the Langford Wing Challenge, hosted by Bucky’s Taphouse.
Finishing his plate of 10 fiery Diablo wings first, well ahead of the competition, was Wagdy Rezk, who last won the title in 2023.
Unable to compete last year, this was his first attempt at regaining the title.
But Rezk put in no preparation time ahead of the eating challenge – he just wings it, he says.
“It's amazing, but I’ll hopefully be back again next year” he said, also admitting that his favourite dish is chicken wings – something his wife Gina serves up for him at least bi-weekly.
With it also being Canada Day, Rezk’s win was cause for a double celebration.
“Canada Day – it’s for everyone,” he said. “Because the country has peace and the people love each other.”
A sentiment shared by Bruce Laforest and Susan Tweed, who refuse to let the goings-on south of the 49th parallel dampen their patriotic pride.
“Canada Day is a time to celebrate the Canadian state and enjoying all the benefits it comes with,” said Laforest.
“Being free and our independence – we’ll always have that,” said Tweed.
Elsewhere at the free family event, hosted by the City of Langford, visitors enjoyed a plethora of activities and entertainment from the likes of musician Leeroy Stagger.
New additions this year included a ‘quiet zone’ with board games, a Caribbean hub offering traditional games, and virtual reality gaming experiences from Infusion Arcade.
There was also face painting, street hockey, balloon art, lawn games and pancake breakfasts on offer, flipped to perfection by Legion volunteers.
Representatives from West Shore RCMP and Langford Fire connected with visitors, while Superheroes of Victoria and magician Jason Verners added to the excitement of the inclusive community celebration.
