The Kootenay Robusters Dragon Boat Team was in fine form for the Kelowna Dragon Boat Festival held July 19-20 in Waterfront Park.
As usual, many of the 15 women’s teams taking part were made up of young, competitive athletes, putting the Robusters, with an average age of 61, at a significant disadvantage. Despite this, the Robusters won their first three races and posted times that resulted in the opportunity to take part in the women’s championship final.
In that race, the team placed fourth, putting in a good effort and enjoying the encouragement of their fans on the shore.
The main disappointment of the weekend was that the Robusters, who were formed to support breast cancer survivors in the region, were not able to enter the race for the Breast Cancer Cup. A minimum of 18 survivor paddlers is needed to take part and the Robusters could only come up with 16. The team did, however, take part in the Carnation Ceremony, held to remember those who have lost their fight with breast cancer and to encourage those who are fighting the disease.
The team would like to remind breast cancer survivors (and women who would like to become associate paddlers) that new members are welcome. Now would be a great time to join the team since our next festival is not scheduled until early September. Anyone interested, call 250-362-5289 for more information.
