All fired up for dragon boat races

Two brightly coloured dragon boats are set to take to the Forth after local breast cancer patients formed a racing club.

The Paddlers for Life organisation is now fundraising for two of the 6500 boats after dozens of women expressed interest in weekly races.

A recent trial day at South Queensferry, using vessels from a similar club in the Lake District, whetted the appetite of organisers in the city, who hope to have up to 50 women taking part.

And while the precise choice of craft, preferred to more conventional oar-powered vessels, seems odd, the rowing action in a 20-person dragon boat is said to be extremely beneficial to breast cancer patients. It is hoped regular exercise will help boost patients who have struggled to keep active after diagnosis and treatment, as well as introducing sufferers to women in a similar predicament.

Chairwoman Andrina Gordon, 54, from Bonnyrigg, was diagnosed for the second time earlier this year and is recovering after chemotherapy.

She said she learned of the sport through clubs in the US and England after it was clinically recommended.

"My physio told me about it, but when I looked into it I couldn't find a club up here, so he said I'd just have to start my own.

"I tried going to the gym and jogging, but I just couldn't get going - this seemed so much better and enjoyable at the same time."

The activity, which sees 20 people in each boat including one drummer to keep a motivational rhythm, is effective in helping the 40 per cent of breast cancer sufferers who develop lymphedema - a painful condition which causes swelling in the arms.

Complete rest used to be the advice to conquer the illness, but studies have since revealed the spade-like rowing action involved in dragon boats can curb the symptoms and stave off its occurrence in the first place.

"We need two boats in order to race," said Andrina. "It gives it a competitive edge, while keeping it fun at the same time.

"The whole idea is to bring women with breast cancer together, and I'm sure it can really take off. We accept anyone in, it's not exclusively breast cancer, but the boats will be pink and that is the main focus of our organisation."

The group sampled the boats when the Paddlers For Life club in Windermere brought two vessels up earlier this month.

"It was really fantastic and turned a few heads," she added. "With the bright colours and sound of the drum, it is something that's never seen here.

"We've been given space and facilities down at Port Edgar which we are so grateful for."

For more information visit www.paddlersforlifescotlandse.co.uk.