Dragon boat paddling © Courtesy of Abreast in a Boat
“In any adventure, who people are can be determined not by what happens to them but by how they deal with it.” – Rosalind MacPhee, Picasso’s Woman, A Breast Cancer Story
That quote, proudly printed on their team jerseys, speaks to the heart of Abreast In A Boat: proving that life after breast cancer can be vibrant, active, and full.
It all began in 1996 when a group of women aged 31 to 62 joined a groundbreaking study to challenge the belief that breast cancer survivors should avoid upper body exercise. Back then, doctors feared strenuous activity could lead to lymphedema, a painful and often debilitating condition. The plan was simple—train together and race in the Vancouver International Dragon Boat Festival, all while being monitored for symptoms.
But after crossing the finish line, they weren’t ready to hang up their paddles. The experience gave them renewed strength and purpose. They felt stronger, not just physically, but emotionally. What started as a one-time study evolved into a lasting mission: to show the world that breast cancer survivors could thrive.
From that single team, a global movement was born. Today, there are 380 breast cancer dragon boat teams in 40 countries. In 2025, Abreast In A Boat marks its 30th Anniversary, and to celebrate, they’re inviting the world to Vancouver.
Abreast In A Boat and Dragon Boat BC have partnered together to celebrate 30 years of breast cancer paddling at the Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival, June 20–22, 2025. The Abreast In A Boat 30th Anniversary Breast Cancer Division will bring together 33 teams from around the world, including five Abreast In A Boat crews. It promises to be a weekend full of excitement—with a Welcome Reception, races, entertainment, artisan market, and the powerful Flower Ceremony, a moving tribute to those lost to breast cancer. Admission is free, and all are welcome.
Whether on the water or off, Abreast In A Boat offers a safe, welcoming space for anyone who has had breast cancer. There are no tryouts, no experience required. Members range in age from their 30s to their 80s and come from all walks of life. Some are watersports enthusiasts; others have never held a paddle. But all share a bond—and find friendship, fun, and empowerment through paddling together. You’ll spot them easily in their vibrant team jerseys and pink life jackets, whether they are paddling or at community events. Their presence is a bold reminder of resilience, health, and hope.
The celebration continues on November 15, 2025, with a special 30th Anniversary Charity Gala. Guests will enjoy dinner, entertainment, and a silent auction. It’s a chance to celebrate achievements but, more importantly, it’s a chance to support Abreast In A Boat’s mission.
“We rely on our sponsors and donors to keep us on the water,” says Brandy Pieters, 2025 President and Co-Chair of the 30th Anniversary Committee. “We are committed to minimizing participation costs to remove financial barriers and welcome more participants who have completed their cancer treatment. One in eight women will face breast cancer in their lifetime—we want to continue supporting them for years to come.”
To learn more, get involved, or donate, visit abreastinaboat.com.
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In 2025, Abreast In A Boat will celebrate its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of support and inspiration for breast cancer survivors through the unique and empowering sport of dragon boat.