IT'S A SISTERHOOD

 The Los Angeles Pink Dragons, are one of dozens of Long Beach based dragon boat teams, the only team comprised of all breast cancer survivors. Each boat holds 20 paddlers, a “caller/drummer” and a steersperson. We paddle in a forward facing, seated position (unlike rowers who face backward), and work to paddle with impeccable timing and power using our entire body, not just arms. This movement offers well rounded fitness, without requiring super arm strength. We compete against like teams (other BCS teams), as well as  All Cancer & women’s teams. The community understands our situation and it is clear to all that any BCS team holds a special place in the hearts of their local paddling community. We’re everybody’s mother, sister, or friend. And one of our favorite experiences was hearing the crowd cheering from shore as we paddled out for a race, and among the cheers came “go Grandma!” loud and clear from a teammate’s granddaughter. Because, yes, many BCS teams skew older than other teams because that is the nature of our disease. However, we are starting to see younger and younger teammates. Our current age range is about 30-80 years old, with 50-70 being about average. And we can’t tell you how excited we were 4 years ago to have our first pregnant Pink who is now the mother of two! This is definitely a community worth joining!  

 BCS dragon boat teams allow women to meet and socialize with other active women like themselves, who won’t let cancer stop them from enjoying life.
We meet on the beach twice a week to soak up the Southern California sun, get some exercise, and bond with other women who are going through the same scares, treatments, and life issues that we share.
A favorite quote of our team's co- founder, T.K. Kimura, says it all: “The cure for anything is salt water — sweat, tears, or the sea.” — Isak Dinesen.
What other sport offers a trifecta such as that! See you on the beach! 

 You have approximately 40 BCS or mBC sisters on the Los Angeles Pink Dragons who, prior to joining the team, had never held a dragon boat paddle in their lives! It may seem daunting as you tell yourself, “I don’t know how to paddle”, and wonder “can I do it?”. Yes you can! We can assure you that almost no one comes to visit our team knowing how to paddle. In fact, unless you’re from Long Beach, you’ve likely not even heard of the sport. But you’ll see us out there with almost 1000 dragon boat paddlers at Mother’s beach most weekends throughout the year. When we have races (called festivals), Long Beach hosts one of the largest international festivals in late July, as well as a smaller local festival in late April. Come see us one day. The Los Angeles Pink Dragons allow survivors to join us for a day (or 3) on the water. We’ll teach you all that you need to know, and we’ll provide all gear needed to allow you to see if you like the sport. You’ll love being out on the water, and will be surprised how quickly you pick it up. Come give it a try!