On Saturday, May 24, the Kootenay Robusters Dragon Boat Society invited all members and supporters, past and present, to come together to celebrate 25 years of friendship, fitness and fun. Participants enjoyed looking at team photos, scrapbooks of news clippings, an impressive display of medals and a clothesline of team shirts and jackets worn over the years. As well, they spent time reflecting on a beautiful memorial display, that featured photos of members who have passed away. It was easy to remember many happy times with these friends.
While the displays were engaging, the best part of the event was moving from group to group, sharing stories and laughs. During the course of the evening and during a delicious Italian meal the group heard from team president Bernice Barrass, former coach Trish Ostlund and current coach Joy Anderson, who took us all on a trip down memory lane with a slide presentation of photos through the years. As well, guests were treated to draws for an array of door prizes provided by Fundamentals – a popular shop in Castlegar owned by Gera al Hanafy, a team member. Another member, Jamie Legarie donated a lovely quilt as a fundraiser for the evening.
Since local nurse Sherri Golley first came up with the idea of starting a breast cancer survivor dragon boat team in the Kootenays, 267 women, survivors and associates, have taken part as members, enjoying the dragon boating experience and committing to the team’s equally important goal of raising awareness of breast cancer and ways to prevent it. Every year, the team publishes a lovely calendar of local scenery – raising funds to support the paddling program as well as sharing the profits with the Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital’s oncology department. To date $72.000.00 has been provided for the needs of cancer patients.
As always, the Robusters are eager to welcome any woman, breast cancer survivor or not, who is interested in becoming part of the team. The paddling season is just starting, and this would be a perfect time to join. Check out our website to find out more: kootenayrobusters.com