This page contains some common questions that are frequently asked
A: The group was established in 2017, so we are all new to the sport and no previous experience is required. We are inspired by the 150 or so breast cancer dragon boat teams worldwide.
A: Dragon boating is a team water-sport which originated in China centuries ago. In 1995, Dr. Don McKenzie, at the University of Columbia launched “Abreast-In-A-Boat”. He wanted to research the effects of repetitive upper body exercise in women treated for breast cancer. At the time it was thought that this kind of exercise might worsen lymphoedema; a swelling of the arm that may affect some women after surgery.
Since the success of his trial the use of Dragon boating as a means to help women (and men!) with breast cancer has now grown to over 150 teams worldwide, including teams in Cork, Waterford, Clonmel, Donegal, Belfast, Mayo, Kilkenny and Wexford.
A: It’s a great way to get active, fit and healthy! Studies have also found that a gradual programme of upper-body exercise in those treated for breast cancer can help improve movement to the area of surgery and/or radiation therapy.
A: No experience is required. We were all newcomers to the sport and we have new people trying it out on an ongoing basis. You will be shown how to use the paddle before you go out in the boat.
A: We recommend a minimum of three months after completing treatment before paddling. You should take medical advice before taking up exercise. You are always welcome to join us in the clubhouse after training for a cup of tea or a chat before the three months are up.
A: You don’t need any equipment to try it out as you will be given a buoyancy aid and paddle for the session. It is best to wear clothes that allow you to move freely. Avoid “plant” based materials such as cotton or linen (especially jeans) as they tend to hold water when wet. Bring a rain jacket if you have one and a change of clothes as we tend to splash a bit when learning how to paddle! A small bottle of water is also a good idea – paddling is a form of exercise, so it is best to stay hydrated.
A: The boat is very stable and is unlikely to capsize. The helm pairs people of equal weight and ensures the boat is well balanced before taking the boat out. The helms are all trained to a high standard (Irish Dragon Boat Association) and are very capable. In the unlikely event of a capsize, the buoyancy aid will keep you afloat and enable you to reach the dockside. Once a year, the coach organizes a planned capsize drill to give people a chance to experience what it is like.
There is no medical supervision at the training sessions. We take the approach that each person is responsible for their own well-being so if you feel tired you can do a half session or if you are in the boat and feel you can’t continue paddling, you just stop and take a breather.
A: Lymphoedema is a swelling caused by damage to the lymph system and can occur for a number of reasons. In those treated for breast cancer it may develop in the arm or around the area of surgery or radiation. We advise that our members with lymphodema wear a compression sleeve when paddling.
A: The membership fee is €90 euro for the year. We try to cover our own costs as much as possible and this fee covers clubhouse costs, insurance, replacement and equipment. You are welcome to come along for two sessions and then decide if you want to join.
A: Email slaneypurplepaddlers (at) gmail (dot) com . We have dedicated members who are assigned to meet new paddlers at their first session and answer any questions that they may have.