Dragon Boat Festival on Lake James

On Saturday, October 5, teams of twenty paddlers will climb into long narrow boats, guided by a drummer in the front and a steerer in the back, propelling their boats through the beautiful waters of Lake James. This is my second year as a member of the Healing Dragons of Lake James. Our team was founded in 2010 by three breast cancer survivors and many of my current teammates are also cancer survivors. Practices are twice a week from April to October and we travel to regattas and festivals throughout North Carolina. This season, our members range in age from 49 to 77 and come from all different walks of life. Despite our differences, we learn how to paddle in sync and to move together as a team. While I am still not a great paddler, I have loved it since my first practice.

The Lake James event, put on through a partnership between UNC Health Blue Ridge and our team, raises money for breast cancer screenings for uninsured and underinsured women in Burke County. Like all dragon boat festivals, there will be music, food trucks, dancing, and ceremonies. There will also be community teams participating which is especially fun when we are here since we are able to cheer on friends and neighbors who are also paddling a dragon boat that day. Even if you aren’t paddling, it’s great just being lakeside and enjoying the energy. The race will be held at the Paddy’s Creek access at Lake James State Park from 9 am to 4 pm. Hope to see you there!