The IBCPC board would like to sincerely thank Marion Egan for her contribution as national representative for Ireland. Marion has chosen to stand down because of her busy schedule. We are extremely lucky to welcome as the new representative for Ireland, Fiona Slaven. We know that Ireland will be in very good hands with Fiona looking after them as she has already given us some ideas in terms of development and growth.
Fiona’s bio is below. ….
I am a member of the Plurabelle Paddlers which is based in central Dublin, Ireland.
I was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005, and have been living well with MBC since 2012.
I discovered dragon boat racing in 2010 when our club became the first dragon boat club in Ireland. I was bitten by the bug! Dragonboat racing has brought joy, health, challenge and great friendships to my life. I have discovered parts of Ireland and the world that I never would have known were it not for our wonderful sport and the camaraderie and friendships it engenders.
I enjoy racing competitively and also enjoy paddling in participatory BCS events where the emphasis is more on fun and friendship.
I am married with 3 wonderful (now adult) children who are my pride and joy. I attend all regattas in Ireland and normally travel abroad 2 or 3 times annually to overseas regattas either with my team or joining in composite teams which is always an enriching and enjoyable experience.
I believe passionately in the huge benefits that dragon boat racing has especially for those who have had a breast cancer diagnosis and for those living with metastatic breast cancer. It is not just the joy and camaraderie it engenders, or the undoubted health benefits, it is the knowing that the person on the bench beside you understands. That unspoken kinship builds confidence, trust and gives a special kind of power to every BCS paddler and their team.
