Celebrating 20 Years of Empowerment and Resilience
In the heart of Atlanta, nestled amidst the urban landscape and bustling city life, a unique movement began to take shape in 2004. On that chilly February afternoon, Dragon Boat Atlanta embarked on its maiden voyage, marking the inception of a journey that would span two decades of camaraderie, resilience, and empowerment.
Founded by Beverly Booth, inspired by the dragon boat program for cancer survivors in Charleston, South Carolina overseen by her cousin Sterling, Dragon Boat Atlanta emerged as a beacon of hope and wellness for individuals navigating the turbulent waters of breast cancer.
Beverly Booth’s vision, coupled with her extensive network of contacts, laid the groundwork for Dragon Boat Atlanta’s humble beginnings. Initially established as a wellness program under the auspices of Turning Point Healthcare, a breast cancer rehabilitation center founded by Jill Binkley in 2003, Dragon Boat Atlanta quickly evolved into a formidable force for positive change within the community.
Mary Beth Roberson, a breast cancer survivor and team member, contributed to the team's identity by designing its original T-shirt, symbolizing the spirit of resilience and unity that would come to define Dragon Boat Atlanta.
In 2011, Dragon Boat Atlanta achieved a significant milestone by obtaining 501(c)(3) non-profit status, solidifying its commitment to serving the community and advancing its mission. However, it was in 2017 that Dragon Boat Atlanta cemented its legacy as a trailblazer in the dragon boating community. Under the leadership of President Linda Evans, the team played a pivotal role in establishing the inaugural dragon boat race at Dallas Landing on Lake Altoona—an event that has since become an annual tradition, showcasing the team's unwavering dedication and passion for their cause.
Despite the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Dragon Boat Atlanta persevered, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity. Throughout its 20-year journey, the team has participated in dragon boat races across the United States and around the globe, spreading awareness of breast cancer and promoting the message that life flourishes beyond diagnosis.
From the inaugural international all breast cancer survivor dragon boat regatta in British Columbia to festivals in Australia, Canada, Italy, New Zealand, and the forthcoming event in France in 2026, Dragon Boat Atlanta has served as a beacon of hope and inspiration to individuals worldwide.
At its core, Dragon Boat Atlanta remains steadfast in its mission to elevate awareness of breast cancer and promote the belief that life after diagnosis is rich with possibility. Through the transformative power of exercise and camaraderie, the team strives to empower breast cancer survivors and their supporters, fostering a sense of belonging and resilience that transcends the confines of illness.
Inclusivity lies at the heart of Dragon Boat Atlanta's ethos, welcoming individuals of all ages and athletic abilities to join their ranks and paddle alongside survivors and supporters alike.
Participating in Dragon Boat Atlanta is more than just a physical activity—it's a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human soul. It's a celebration of life, resilience, and the unwavering bonds of solidarity that unite individuals in their shared journey towards healing and renewal. As Dragon Boat Atlanta commemorates 20 years of empowerment and camaraderie, it continues to inspire hope, ignite passion, and reaffirm the belief that together, we are stronger than the challenges we face.
