ABOUT US
History...
May 3, 2006, we met at the Salmon Arm wharf to form an ALL breast cancer dragon boat team. Our members come from as far away as Enderby, Kamloops and Merritt. The fact that there was such a response indicated to us that there was a need for these breast cancer ladies to participate in the dragon boat experience. In September we competed internationally in Australia.
The paddling season begins in May and ends in September on the pristine shores of Shuswap Lake out of Salmon Arm.
Our Membership is open to all breast cancer survivors of all ages and abilities, from all points around the lake.
We are currently recruiting for the 2012 paddling season.
2012
Executive:
President - Diane Simon
Vice President - Sherry Cochran
Treasurer - Carine Baird
Secretary - Sue Weiss
Director - Betty Mohninger
Past President - Margaret
Acton
Goals:
Memories of Australia
Joan Fiala
(written on the long flight
home from "Down Under")
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Our Australian dream finally came true, “If we’re not near you we’re feeling blue” The parade was truly a highlight for me, Two thousand women all clad in pink pompetry. Jake held our Canadian flag as proud as can be, He waved it high and mighty for everyone to see. The opening ceremony with dragons in fiery red, Our hero and founder, Dr. Don Mckenzie, with Unforgettable words said. “Paddling on the Shuswap” we sang on the steps, With our new Aussie hats we practiced many reps! So much fun with our boogie boards out on the beach, Hopefully no sharks were within our reach! (oops Donna-screech!) We partied and dance after the sun had gone down, And some carried on as though they were clowns! The first time to practise on Kawana Lake, We all were edgy and nervous knowing what was at stake. But our first race we pulled together, what a team! The Pink Piston Paddlers are coming we wanted to scream! Our second race the wind shifted course, Sweepperson Joan had some trouble with the force. The third race the headwind was somewhat strong, The pink twurly hat flew off the sweep’s head where it belonged. We all felt good about our races so far, Must be time to celebrate and go to the bar! |
Off to Aussie World to have some circus rides, We laughed so hard that it hurt our sides. Up early Sunday morning ready for another big day, Everyone geared up for the next race come what may! A little more exciting as it was a draw to the semifinal race, Laima strong on the drums and our Julie setting the pace. We had a great start and gave it our best I reckon, But a little disappointing to lose by 7/10ths of a second. Our final “fun race” of the day we were all happy and giddy, Who cares of we don’t race in the finals against Missabitatiti! We could hear our supporters as we headed out from shore, Our coach in our thoughts, dig deeper, reach more! Donna, our rock, our center, our CORE. We were all ecstatic when we crossed the finish line, We had won a race for the very first time!! The Pink Piston Paddlers had done their very best, Our hard work and training was put to the test. Manager Robin can finally unwind and start relaxing, As his job at most times was very taxing and also nerve racking! Time to celebrate, rejoice and give thanks, For all the good times to store away in our memory banks. We’ve beat the dragon to live, live, live, To show other survivors what we have to give. This journey now ends as we all depart, Our experience and fond memories will soar in our hearts.
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