From all over the globe we came. Destination: Lake Karapiro, New Zealand for the International Breast Cancer Participatory Dragon Boat Festival April 10-16, 2023.
The energy filled the air and we were ready. Ready to race, ready to celebrate. We all had cancer in common, so we didn’t have to say a word. We knew why we were here. To triumph!
The Central Coast SurviveOars put together a team of breast cancer survivor paddlers from all over California. Out of 80 dragon boat teams, the SurviveOars came in 11th overall in the 500-meter races! With strong starts and great timing, they showed their strength in all of the races. (But it must be said that the fiercest competitor at the festival was the wind!) Along with several thousand other paddlers and supporters from around the globe, the SurviveOars danced, sang, bonded, honored those who have paddled onward, and paraded together! It was a winning experience for all.
The fun did not end in New Zealand. At the ‘welcome home’ party, the SurviveOars celebrated with teammates who had watched the races on livestream and sent encouraging texts throughout the event. The paddlers shared a special moment from New Zealand, when thousands of dragon boat paddlers from all over the world sang ‘Sweet Caroline’! The team recreated this moment, with a lot of love (the video is only a little embarassing).
Many thanks to Central Coast SurviveOars team coach Rose Marie Battaglia and team manager Patrice Sanchez!
