The Warriors of Hope, a breast cancer survivor dragon boat racing team, celebrated the launch of their new boat "Spirit" with an emotional ceremony at Olmsted Beach on Tuesday.
The new name of the new boat reflects the unity of the group and honours the collective journey in breast cancer. Out of the 15 submissions, the team voted on the top three names, ultimately selecting "Spirit."
"Spirit definitely describes the spirit of every individual and our determination to keep going," said Carol Philbin, Warriors of Hope team captain.
The team also retired their beloved boat "Jane" in a ceremony attended by numerous supporters despite the heavy downpour. As if to honour the moment, a beautiful rainbow appeared in the sky, symbolizing hope and renewal.
"Tonight was a moment in history, we had Jane who has been with us for 25 years and now she is retired," said Philbin.
Nipissing—Timiskaming MP Anthony Rota, who spoke at the event, remarked on the symbolism of the rainbow.
"It's quite emotional for a lot of people. When it started raining I thought to myself, in everybody's life a little rain falls and then you get a rainbow. What more could you ask for?"
The ceremony featured a moment of silence to honour the Warriors who have passed away, with friends, families, and former team members gathering to support the team. Barry Birosh from the Callander Legion Pipes and Drums played bagpipes to commemorate the occasion.
"Each stroke we take in Spirit will carry the legacy of those who have paddled before us and those who are no longer with us," said Kathleen MacDonell, WOH president. "Our journey is one of camaraderie, commitment, courage, and compassion."
Formed in October 1999, The Warriors of Hope is a team of breast cancer survivors who participate in dragon boat racing as an example of what people can accomplish after breast cancer.
Looking ahead, the Warriors of Hope team aims to compete in the International Breast Cancer Paddlers Commission Dragon Boat Festival in France.
