06/17/2026
🐉💜 DRAGON SISTER SPOTLIGHT: RACHEL BURMAN 💜🐉
Sometimes the people who introduce us to something new have no idea how much it will change our lives.
For Rachel, that person was her mother.
After joining Power of the Dragon and falling in love with the sport, Rachel's mother invited her to try dragon boating. Rachel originally joined to spend time with her mom, but what began as a shared activity quickly became a passion of her own.
"I joined in order to pursue a fun activity with my mom, but I enjoyed it so much that even after she had to leave the team, I kept going."
Since joining in 2019, dragon boating has transformed how Rachel sees herself.
"I was a reasonably active person before joining, but as a member of Power of the Dragon, I became 'someone who does sports.'"
What started as a weekly practice gradually became something much bigger—a reminder that she was capable of pushing herself, learning new skills, and embracing challenges.
"Why should the jocks have all the fun, right?"
One of Rachel's favourite rituals is biking through Montréal's Old Port and along the Lachine Canal before arriving at practice. The journey itself has become part of the experience.
"It's been very grounding and meaningful for me and has provided reliable comfort and pleasure through some devilishly difficult times."
And when the boat is perfectly in sync?
"I have the very satisfying feeling of funnelling my bodily energy into a system greater than myself, one that can achieve more than I can alone."
Rachel describes Power of the Dragon as a team built on dedication, spirit, friendship, and an impressive talent for brunches and fundraising campaigns.
She especially appreciates our coach, Jode.
"He combines energy and humour with a clear and methodical approach to teaching paddling technique."
Outside the boat, Rachel is a musician and composer with a deep love for music and the arts. She also lives in a house without a sofa.
"We watch movies from straight-backed wooden chairs."
What makes Rachel feel strong?
"Doing hard things."
And if Power of the Dragon had a theme song?
🎵 *Ode to Joy.*
When does she feel most alive?
✨ "When I'm creating."
Thank you, Rachel, for bringing your creativity, thoughtfulness, and adventurous spirit to Power of the Dragon. We're so glad your mom invited you to that first practice. 💜
