08/13/2026
We are proud to support Denise, Pat and Susan has they venture to the International Breast Cancer Paddlers’ Commission (IBCPC) Participatory Dragon Boat Festival held in Lac du Bourget, France on August 24-30, 2026. These ladies are set to paddle with the Sunshine Dragons Abreast (SDA) team located out of Sechelt, B.C.
This journey began back in 2021 when Wall found out that SDA was looking for paddlers for the 2022 IBCPC festival in New Zealand. Wall states that she had such an exceptional experience that when she heard the 2026 festival would be held in France, she immediately signed up! When SDA was short paddlers, Wall approached Hodd and Beers to join as well. Hodd and Beers were thrilled when they were called off the wait list to fill the roster. Hodd explains that she is eager to meet other women with similar stories from across the globe. It is a beautiful way to check off a bucket list item of attending an international dragon boat festival states Beers.
All three women are looking forward to the camaraderie and strength that will fill the air! This event will host 4500 participants, where 1125 (25%) participants will be representing Canada! Wall explains that “seeing so many mentally and physically strong women in one place is something I am not sure most people can fathom. It is very emotional to understand that you are not alone in the fight against cancer.” What better place to do that than on the largest glacial lake in the French Alps?
This will be a remarkable place where a global community will stand connected through courage, hope, resilience and inclusivity.