From the Desk of the President of IBCPC
August 1st, 2025
Across Borders, Beyond Waters: Reflections on My Recent Travels
A Journey of Discovery, Connection, and Inspiration for the IBCPC Community
The world unfurls itself in unexpected ways when viewed from the window of a plane, the deck of a ferry, or the rhythm of a new city’s streets. As a paddler and member of the International Breast Cancer Paddlers’ Commission (IBCPC) community, my recent travels took me across continents and cultures, weaving together the threads of camaraderie, resilience, and hope that define our movement. It is my pleasure to share with you the highlights, lessons, and heartfelt encounters from my journey—a journey that, while deeply personal, is also a reflection of the shared spirit that unites us all.
Every journey begins not just with a packed suitcase, but with a sense of anticipation. As I prepared for this trip, I was mindful of carrying more than the essentials; I carried stories, dreams, and the hope of forging new friendships within our global paddling family. My itinerary was ambitious spanning four countries, many cities, and countless moments of insight and connection.
First Stop: Embracing Community in Vancouver, Canada
My adventure commenced in Vancouver, a city renowned for its vibrant dragon boating culture and breathtaking natural beauty. The air was crisp, tinged with salt from the Pacific, and the city buzzed with anticipation for the annual dragon boat festival.
Meeting fellow IBCPC paddlers on the banks of False Creek, I felt instantly at home. There is something magical in that first handshake or warm embrace with someone who shares your journey, both on the water and in life. We exchanged stories—triumphs over adversity, the challenges of training, and the joy of racing together. I was inspired by the spirit of inclusivity: paddlers from all walks of life, united by a shared purpose.
My biggest congratulations go to the originals from Abreast in a Boat celebrating the tenacious journey that they began 30 years ago led by Dr Don Mc Kenzie right at this location here at False Creek, Vancouver. 2 of those brave originals are still paddling with the team today.
The festival itself was a riot of colour and energy. Teams from across the globe highlighted their skill, determination, and camaraderie. But it was the opening ceremony—a sea of pink jerseys, paddles raised in unity, and voices joined in song—that moved me most. The sense of solidarity was palpable, a reminder that our community is about so much more than competition; it is about lifting one another up.
I stood on the banks of the river watching the “Flowers on the Water” ceremony with other paddlers, a tradition that holds deep meaning in our community. As we released blossoms onto the gentle current, each flower carried a wish—a hope for continued health, an expression of gratitude, a memory of those no longer with us. It was a beautiful, solemn moment that transcended language and geography.
There will be further stories about this wonderful event further in this newsletter.
Second Stop: The shores of Lake Annecy and Lake Bourget connecting with our European community.
From the shores of False Creek, Vancouver, I moved to the shores of Lake Annecy, France.
Annecy: is often referred to as the "Venice of the Alps," Annecy is renowned for its crystal-clear lake and charming canals. Dragon boat racing on Lake Annecy is a spectacle to behold, with the pristine waters reflecting the colourful boats and the surrounding mountains providing a breathtaking backdrop. The old town's medieval architecture and lively atmosphere make it a delightful destination to walk around and explore. The dragon boat events here are not just about competition but also about celebrating the town's rich cultural heritage. I am sure that any teams staying in Annecy for the festival next year will really enjoy the location immensely as there is so much on offer to explore.
I was able to enjoy time with the paddlers from the French teams in the region who had combined as a team to train in preparation for representing France in the IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Championships in Germany the following month.
The main purpose of visiting this region was to go to Aix les Bains to check on the progress and programme for the IBCPC festival, 2026.
Aix-les-Bains: Nestled on the shores of Lake Bourget, Aix-les-Bains is a picturesque town known for its thermal spas and stunning natural beauty. The town's serene waters provide an ideal setting for dragon boat racing, attracting enthusiasts from all over. The backdrop of the majestic Alps adds to the charm, making it a must-visit for both participants and spectators.
The organisers had developed a test event to trial various aspects that would come into play in 2026. Lucia joined me in Aix les Bains and we walked the parade route, visited the Congress centre, watched races, presented trophies, spoke at the boat blessing, and just basked in the sunshine and pleasure of being with our cohort of paddlers.
I was really thrilled to meet and talk with so many amazing paddlers. Our conversations on the dock meandered from race tactics to personal journeys through breast cancer diagnosis and recovery. I was humbled by the openness of the group, their willingness to share both struggles and triumphs, as we transcended language barriers. One paddler spoke of how dragon boating had become a lifeline, transforming her sense of self and rekindling her belief in what her body could achieve. This for me is exactly what this adventure is all about. It is the stories the hugs, the laughs, the knowing.
There are still many aspects to continue to develop and fine tune for France, but I have every confidence in the organisers and in what they will deliver, the location alone scores a 10/10.
From the shores of Lake Bourget, it was back to Canada, this time Montreal for the Pan American Club Crew Championships.
Montreal, a vibrant and multicultural city, hosts one of the largest dragon boat festivals in North America. The event takes place on the scenic waters of the Olympic Basin, drawing teams from across the globe.
The Olympic Basin in Montreal, was the setting for another major dragon boat event being the Pan American Club Crew Championships 2025. The dynamic energy and diverse culture of Montreal were reflected in the festival, which also featured food stalls and family-friendly activities. The PAN AM Dragon Boat Cub Crew Championships held at the Olympic Basin was a prestigious event, highlighting the best of the sport with teams demonstrating their strength, coordination, and teamwork. The championships were not just about the races; they also celebrated community and sportsmanship. There were breast cancer teams competing from the USA, Canada, and Panama.
Matt Smith’s (IDBF VP and PanAM VP) introduction to me as President of IBCPC at the official opening ceremony where he called breast cancer dragon boat paddling “one of the unique and iconic elements of the sport” was very heartwarming and dare I say it true. We are all of that and more. I was lucky to present medals to race category winners, to spend time with all the breast cancer paddlers, to hear and share stories. I will add too that if you want to experience an amazing venue, enjoying the best of the best on offer in dragon boat racing then make the Olympic Basin in Montreal a destination on your to do/bucket list.
You can read more about this event further in the newsletter.
I managed to have three days off from dragon boat duties and went to Türkiye, visiting Istanbul. The Bosphorus River is stunning and I can already in my mind’s eye see that we will be taking outreach clinics there soon to start dragon boating in that region.
From the waters of the Bosphorus river next stop was Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany for the IDBF World Dragon boat Racing Championships (WDBRC).
Brandenburg an der Havel, with its network of rivers and lakes, is a hidden gem for water sports enthusiasts. The dragon boat races here are held on the picturesque Beetz see, a lake known for its calm and clear waters. The town's rich history and beautiful landscapes provide a unique setting for the races. The local community's enthusiasm and support for the sport are evident in the well-organized events and the warm hospitality extended to visitors.
This was the absolute penultimate experience of this adventure as part of my duties as President of IBCPC. I had long held the dream that one day breast cancer paddling would be included in the IDBF WDBRC. It was not an easy pathway, but one that felt so much better for achieving in the 30th year since breast cancer dragon boat paddling began. It took a lot of talking, planning and finally convincing at the Council level of the IDBF. Victory was ours. In my mind that was enough and I just prayed that we would get at least 3 country entries per category. To have 8 countries competing in each category just blew my mind. I was so thrilled by this and I know for sure after the success of the 2025 championships that 2027 will have even bigger fields.
To be present to witness this very special moment in history, to commentate on the races, to give background and history on the teams, to talk and meet with so many paddlers, to present medals, to stand with tears of emotion and joy at listening to national anthems was something I will treasure always. The hugs, the laughter, the selfies, the stories, it filled my bucket to overflowing. To experience the exuberance of having these teams at this championship. Continuous cries of BCP, BCP, BCP at every medal ceremony, and throughout the athlete’s village, was nothing short of amazing. The biggest crowds, the biggest cheers were always for the breast cancer teams at the podium. I thank all of those in IDBF who supported this initiative, particularly the IDBF President, Claudio Schermi and the championship organiser Ute Becke-Frenzel, I on behalf of the 20,000 global breast cancer cohort salute you and thank you.
IBCPC has and always will continue its growth on participation while sharing and encouraging the development of new teams. We realise that many peddlers do want a pathway to the top level of competition and for the 300 odd paddlers that were in Germany they represent about 1.5% of our total cohort. I want to reassure all paddlers that participation is for all our paddlers.
You can read further about this championship in this newsletter.
Each of these destinations offered a unique experience, blending the excitement of dragon boat racing with their distinct cultural and natural attractions. Whether you are a participant or a spectator, these places I experienced promise unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the sport.
Shared Threads: What My Travels Taught Me
As I reflect on these experiences, several themes stand out, each a lesson from the IBCPC paddlers I met along the way.
Resilience: Every paddler has a story of overcoming obstacles, both on and off the water. The courage to keep moving forward, even when the current is against you, is a thread that runs through every team I visited.
Connection: Despite differences in language, culture, or geography, our shared experience of breast cancer and our love for paddling form an unbreakable bond. Whether in Vancouver, Montreal, Annecy, Aix les Bains, or Brandenberg, I felt instantly embraced by a global family.
Celebration: Our community knows how to celebrate—not just victories, but every small milestone, every act of courage, every new friendship. Festivals, ceremonies, and team gatherings are reminders to honour the present moment and those who share it with us.
Gratitude: I am filled with gratitude—for the generosity of the teams who welcomed me, for the chance to visit new waters, and for the ongoing support of the IBCPC community. Each encounter was a gift.
Looking Ahead: Carrying the Spirit Forward
Returning home, I find myself transformed by the journey. The landscapes and faces may change, but the spirit of IBCPC endures—persistent as the tide, enduring as the rivers, lakes, and seas we paddle on. I carry with me the wisdom and warmth of those I met, and I am eager to bring those lessons back to my own team, to inspire and be inspired in turn.
For anyone considering joining an international event or visiting another team, I offer this encouragement: step out, reach across the water, and embrace the unknown. The world is full of kindred spirits waiting to welcome you, to share their stories, and to paddle beside you in solidarity.
As we look ahead to the next season—new races, new friendships, new adventures—I hope my reflections will inspire others to seek out connection and community in every corner of the globe. The sincere heart of IBCPC beats not just in any one city or team, but in the shared courage and joy that unites us all.
Here is to the journeys ahead—on the water, across continents, and into the hearts of friends we have yet to meet.
With much love, gratitude and paddles up,
Meri Gibson
Global President
IBCPC
