Boobops Team Story

The Boobops Dragon Boat Team, proudly representing the Bay of Plenty, is celebrating one of its strongest and most inspiring seasons yet. As they prepare for the National Championships at Lake Karāpiro in Cambridge, the team continues to embody the determination, inclusiveness, and unwavering spirit that have made them one of New Zealand’s most respected women’s dragon boat teams.

This season has highlighted the Boobops at their finest. Their training programme—rooted in commitment, discipline, and deep camaraderie—has translated into exceptional performances on the water. One of the standout achievements was capturing the prestigious Princess of the Harbour title at Auckland Anniversary Weekend, a testament to their technical skill and relentless drive. Their momentum continued at the Auckland Regional Championships, where they delivered strong, consistent results across multiple races, reinforcing their high national ranking and firmly positioning them among the top contenders heading into Nationals.

But while their competitive success is impressive, the true heart of the Boobops extends far beyond racing. The team is deeply embedded within the Bay of Plenty community, drawing strength from local support and giving back through their visible presence on the harbour—often spotted training in their signature pink shirts, met with waves and car horn toots from enthusiastic supporters. Their inclusiveness is one of their defining features: the team proudly spans paddlers from their early 30s through to inspirational women in their 80s. This age diversity is a point of pride, reflecting a culture that embraces every athlete willing to put in the work, support one another, and give their best.

Each paddler brings her own story and her own reasons for being part of the team. Yet when they take their seats in the boat, they move as one—united in rhythm, purpose, and a shared belief that strength is built stroke by stroke. Their training sessions are an uplifting blend of grit and laughter, challenge and encouragement, sweat and shared triumphs.

This season also brought new joy: one of the team’s younger paddlers is expecting a baby, and the entire team eagerly looks forward to welcoming a “baby dragon” into the Boobops whānau.

The team’s impact continues off the racecourse as well. Over the past 24 months, the Boobops have been featured multiple times on national television, raising awareness for both the sport and the breast cancer community. They now also offer a weekly mid morning social paddle—perfect for retirees, those not working, or anyone seeking a more relaxed experience—followed by coffee or lunch. This initiative has been warmly received and adds to the team’s strong community spirit.

Social connection remains a cornerstone of the Boobops culture. This year, members took part in a fun-filled car rally, forming seven teams and completing activities at each stop—from rugby goal kicking to darts to creative video challenges. These events strengthen the bonds that make the team such a supportive and uplifting environment.

The Boobops also remain deeply committed to supporting paddlers who are no longer in the boat but continue to face breast cancer related health challenges. Whether on the water or on the shore, no one is left behind.

With a season of strong performances behind them and determination driving them forward, the Boobops are entering the final stretch ready to give everything they have—just as they always have and always will. They paddle for medals, yes, but more importantly, they paddle for each other, for their community, and with immense pride in representing the Bay of Plenty on the national stage.