Membership

Abreast in the Rockies is a nonprofit organization which encourages women with breast cancer and supporters to learn to paddle a dragon boat.  Members benefit from the fellowship, support, and encouragement of teammates. 

Dragon boating originated in China more than 1500 years ago. The boats are about 12.5 meters long and are manned by 20 paddlers under the direction of a drummer and a steers person. Races cover distances of 200 to 500 meters. Dragon boating is the fastest growing team sport in the world. 

We accept all skill levels to join our team - from the very beginner who has never paddled to those who have been on teams in other cities and have moved here. You don’t have to know how to swim to paddle with us.  Our goal is to not end up in the water but if we do you will be wearing a PFD.  

You do not need to have had a breast cancer diagnosis to join. 

Yes, our team consists of women survivors and supporters.  Send us an email if you would like a referral to a mixed (male & female) team.

Any woman of any age can join; Currently our members range from their 30's to their 80's! 

The yearly membership fee for Paddling members is $90.00; non-paddling members pay $50.00.

A paddle is provided for your first year; after that we encourage you to purchase your own new or used paddle.  PFD's are supplied to all paddlers.

We all come in at different levels of physical fitness – from persons who haven’t worked out in 10 years to those who work out six days a week. We promise that no matter where you are starting you will improve your fitness level.   Being physically fit is very important to prevent injury; we encourage fitness for the safety of our paddlers.

Paddlers participate in practice sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from the beginning of May to the end of September in addition to their fitness training.  Several events are held during the year including festivals, fund raising, the Spirit of the Rockies parade and our annual general meeting.  In addition, each member helps with committees to keep our team functioning.

A Dragon Boat Festival is a gathering of dragon boat teams. The festival’s main event – Dragon Boat Racing – is hard work and lots of fun. Teams of 18 – 20 people paddle their hearts out in a long, narrow boat over a 200 to 500 m. distance; this is where all our practicing pays off.  Festivals feature a variety of events like beer gardens, on-stage entertainment, vendor stalls and a breast cancer survivor Flower Ceremony.  In addition, our team gets together after the races for social time; and we always finish first in our lane!

Festivals are often the highlight for many of our members and we usually participate in two festivals each year.  Team members have the opportunity to sign up for any or all of the festivals we attend but are encouraged to participate.  We fund raise to help defray the costs of competing, however expenses such as hotels and meals aren’t covered and are paid by each participant.

Of course!  Many of our members live in towns and rural areas outside of Cranbrook and are willing to drive in for practices and events.

Yes!  We have several Meet the Dragons nights where you can try it out.  Paddles, PFD's and instruction are provided.  Send us an email if you would like us to try out this amazing sport.

We'd love to have you join us as a non-paddling associate member. Or you can still support our team by making a donation.  Click on the 'Donate' button on our website or send us a cheque (send us an email and we will send our mailing address).  Tax receipts will be provided.