Dragon Boat Racing Benefits Cancer Survivors

The roar of cancer survivors, family members and supporters "thriving and surviving" was heard at the first Capital Lakes DragonFest held on Saturday, June 26 at Vilas Park, Madison to benefit TEAMSurvivor Madison, Inc.

The festival, a Madison first, hosted 24 teams of 20 paddlers, plus a drummer and a steersperson. The UW Carbone Cancer Center's team, Cancer Crusaders finished in the number seven ranking out of 24 teams, winning a bronze paddle in the Water Dragon finale. UW Health's team, That's How We Row, finished first among health care teams and fifth overall.

According to UW Carbone Cancer Center Marketing Director, Craig Robida, "Our team, composed of physicians, nurses, clinical research associates and administration came out in full spirit that day in support of cancer survivors. We learned a lot about paddling and had fun along the way!"

Dragon boat racing is a traditional sport originating in China over 2,500 years ago. Renowned for its camaraderie, strength and endurance achieved by participants, dragon boat racing is quickly becoming one of the fastest growing team water sports, with tens of thousands of participants in over 60 countries.

The distinction of an internationally sanctioned sport that offers a "survivor" category for events creates a signature opportunity for survivors around the globe.

TEAMSurvivor Madison, Inc. is a nonprofit organization providing exercise and support programs for women with a past or present diagnosis of any type of cancer. Its mission is not only to offer physical fitness opportunities, but also emotional support and well-being. One of the exciting and unique methods used by TEAMSurvivor Madison is participation in dragon boat racing.

Were You At the Races?

Were you at the races? Have you raced before? What do you think?