The combined AIAB crew at Nanaimo

As always, the Nanaimo Regatta did not disappoint. The superb organization, the effort put into a respectful flower ceremony, the peaceful “candle on the water” ceremony, the well run races and the tremendous support from the community as a whole are truly remarkable.

Of the 11 breast cancer crews attending we were the only crew from Abreast In A Boat. We were made up of paddlers from the Deas, False Creek, Barnet and Richmond crews with Margaret Hobson as Coach, Barb Lea (who really needs to remember to get into the right boat for the race) tried her hand as Drummer and Malcolm Hair as Steers.

Although we didn’t perform as well as we wanted on the water we were magnificent off the water.

'In Cognito' members on Friday night

The Friday night Mardi Gras theme party was the usual success and our Celina performed a magnificent Limbo. Wow! We were all envious of her flexibility and energy! Judi Clark’s shoes were the talk of the town. I have no idea how she walked in them let alone danced.

Barb Baker’s mother brought lunches for the crew on both Saturday and Sunday. She even baked the buns for the sandwiches and the date squares were to die for. We all really appreciated the time and effort that Jill Bartholomew spent making earrings of angels for us all (except Malcolm, I think!).

On Sunday, alumna Alvia Branch, flew into the Nanaimo harbour to be with our crew for the days races and joined us in the flower ceremony. Alvia attends every year and we are very grateful for her support.

The Saturday night dinner at the Lighthouse pub had its moments one of which was a celebration of Malcolm’s birthday. Someone (who will remain nameless Heather) ordered a shooter in a larger dish covered in whipped cream. Malcolm who is a good sport had to find the shooter and drink it without using his hands! That was quite a picture! A beard full of whipped cream and a smile from ear to ear! We were then all rewarded with free shooters from the bar!! Who says we don’t know how to have a good time. By the way Malcolm’s birthday is not in July!

The fun didn’t stop even after the races were over. We collected our second place Jade division ribbon, Vivian Omori collected $455.00 in the 50/50 draw (bought a round of beers for those who were still there) and Catherine Almrud we think won the water gun fight using gatorade! Now that is a story worth pursuing and I will leave that up to you the reader.

Bev Dagg floating her candle

Story - Sandy Lowe
Photos - Sheila Tynan and Henry Tanaka