A team of breast cancer survivors from Saskatoon is embarking on an international journey through dragon boat racing. Busting with Energy, the team, is set to compete in France against teams from various countries. Kerry Neal, a team member, expressed the profound impact of being on the water with individuals who share similar experiences. Neal discovered the team during her chemotherapy treatment and joined as soon as she felt better. The camaraderie and support within the team of nearly 40 individuals facing similar challenges have been incredibly uplifting.
The team humorously refers to themselves as “the team no one wants to join,” as membership is exclusively for those who have battled breast cancer. Neal joined the sport to aid in managing lymphedema, a condition that can occur following breast surgery and lymph node removal. Dragon boating is renowned for its effectiveness in rehabilitating muscles and lymph nodes affected by breast cancer surgeries.
The inception of breast cancer dragon boat teams dates back to 1996 when a medical group in Vancouver introduced the concept. Initially, there was a misconception that activities like canoeing, which involve upper arm movement, should be limited for individuals who underwent breast surgery. However, this myth was dispelled by the Vancouver team, leading to the global popularity of breast cancer dragon boating.
Anne Eagle, the team’s president, emphasized the team’s role in showcasing that life continues after breast cancer treatment. Eagle, a member for six years following her diagnosis 12 years ago, highlighted the importance of the enduring connections formed within the group. The team not only focuses on physical strength but also provides emotional support and inspiration to its members.
The Busting with Energy team is gearing up for the 2026 IBCPC Participatory Dragon Boat Festival in Lac du Bourget, France, where they will join 4,500 breast cancer survivors from around the world. The team’s training regimen includes 12 weeks of dryland preparation, culminating in practices on the South Saskatchewan River. Women of diverse fitness levels and ages, including individuals over 80 years old, participate in the team, fostering a supportive environment that motivates each member to push their limits. The festival will bring together over 300 teams, showcasing the growth and solidarity of breast cancer dragon boat racing globally.