Winning team says: Vive La France!

By Rachel Rossler

Dallas United Crew’s PINK team, an all-breast cancer survivor (BCS) dragon boat racing team, achieved a significant milestone this past weekend, capturing the gold medal at the Stars and Stripes Festival in Oklahoma City, one of the largest summer paddling events in the region.

Competing in the 200-meter, 500-meter, and 250-meter flag-catch races, PINK fielded two 10-woman crews. With extraordinary teamwork and determination, the athletes defeated three teams they had never previously outpaced, claiming first place in their division for the 200m. The victory highlights not only the team’s athletic development but also the power of community, recovery and perseverance.

“This win is about more than just finishing first,” said PINK coach Donna Coker. “It’s about showing what’s possible after breast cancer — pushing boundaries, lifting each other up and proving we are stronger together.”

The Oklahoma City triumph marks a critical step in the team’s preparation for the International Breast Cancer Paddlers’ Commission (IBCPC) Participatory Dragon Boat Festival, to be held in Aix-les-Bains, France, in 2026. The IBCPC Festival is a global gathering of breast cancer survivor teams from around the world. Held every four years, the event emphasizes wellness, camaraderie, and the healing power of sport, drawing more than 4,000 paddlers from more than 30 countries.

For DUC PINK, the journey to France represents a mission greater than competition — it’s a commitment to raising awareness, promoting survivorship, and celebrating life beyond diagnosis.

“This is more than sport,” said team member Taffie Butters. “This is about hope, healing and showing the world what breast cancer survivors can accomplish when we paddle as one.”

As the PINK team continues training for international competition, they invite the North Texas community to follow and support their journey. For more information about Dallas United Crew PINK, visit DUCPINK.org.

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