Lagan Dragons launch regatta

Cancer Focus NI is urging local business women to sign up to take part in the Lagan Dragon’s regatta on May 31. The family day out will be held at Bryson Lagan Sports, 2 Rivers Edge, 13-15 Ravenhill Road, Belfast, BT6 8DN.

 

Deirdre Conlon, Cancer Focus NI Head of Care Services, who goes out regularly with the paddlers, said: “Dragon Boat racing for women who are affected by breast cancer is well-known around the world but our team is a first for Northern Ireland.

 

“We were approached by breast cancer survivor Joanne Rock, who is an enthusiastic paddler, to set up this exciting new project for local women. Dragon Boat racing helps women get fitter after breast cancer treatment, makes them feel better emotionally and is a great way to make new friends. It’s a fun way to get your life back on track.”

 

Deirdre added: “We started just a few months ago and already we have a regular turn out of around 20 women, mainly from the Greater Belfast, Bangor, Newtownabbey and Lisburn areas. We also have a few health professionals among our numbers. And Bryson Lagan Sports have come on board to provide boats for us to use.

 

“We meet each Saturday morning, row for an hour and finish with a cup of tea, and we’d be delighted to hear from anyone who’s interested in joining.”

 

The Lagan Dragons have to fund themselves and have organised the regatta to help. The charity is asking paddlers to pay a £10 registration fee and raise a minimum of £50 in sponsorship.

 

If you’d like to take part in the regatta, please email leonnemorrison@cancerfocusni.org or call 028 9068 0751.