Submitted by Matilde Yahni
“Come on, girls, time to race“, “Allons-y copines“, “Andiamo ragazze a la gara”, “Vamos chicas, nos toca correr“. These multi-lingual cheers filled the Pink Hope Across Border’s tent, empowering the BCS paddlers from 5 different countries, who participated in the recent festival. Before the festival, bonds were forged in a public WhatsApp chat, that previewed the unforgettable fun days ahead in Lake Karapiro.
The Dragon Boat Festival organized by New Zealand included a heartfelt assortment of sport, Māori dances, songs, laughs, warm hugs, nice chats, good food and camaraderie. The unique venue prompted reconnection with pink paddling friends from all over the world and discovery of new friends.
The Argentinian “Rosas del Plata” participants immersed in these precious days with beautiful ladies from New Zealand, Canada, Italy, and United States. The experiences will stay in our hearts and minds forever.
Our hosts, the wonderful NZ PINK SISTERS, made our stay unforgettable. Thanks Elaine, Jo and Saskia.
A special mention to Ellen, our team leader from USA, who made the right decisions and gave the best advice, when needed.
Ralph W. Emerson wrote that “The glory of friendship is not the outstretched hand, not the kindly smile, nor the joy of companionship; it is the spiritual inspiration that comes to one when you discover that someone else believes in you and is willing to trust you“.
In our boat trust and joy and a profound desire to seize the moment created the magic of fast friends and long-lasting bonds. From adversity and resilience every pink paddling breast cancer survivor receives the gifts of power, mindfulness, and kinship.
To all the wonderful ladies in the 2023 festival:
“May dragons let you paddle in good health.
May the sun shine warm upon your face.
And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand“.
Matilde Yahni
Rosas del Plata Captain (Buenos Aires)
IBCPC National Representative for Argentina
