Del drives Snappies back into race

Del Martin has helped keep Redcliffe Pink Snapdragons alive, grow and win state medals. Now she hopes others will “give it a go”.

It was almost 20 years ago (in November) that Del first took her place as a dragon boat sweep. She had been diagnosed with breast cancer 11 months earlier.

Back in 2005 Del saw it as a way to reclaim strength and spirit – but dragon boating became a life’s passion, which she wants to share.

Del and the “Snappies” are hosting a free come-and-try session on Saturday, May 10 for anyone “touched by breast cancer – survivors and supporters”.

Start 9am for 9.30am on the water. All equipment will be provided and morning tea served at the group’s clubhouse in Talobilla Park, Kippa-Ring.

It is part of Snappies’ aim to “empower anyone touched by breast cancer” and join them for “camaraderie, support, lifetime friendship, active recovery and fitness”.

Del said: “You just have to give it a go, you might find yourself addicted too.

“Dragon boating taught me the future is not predetermined. There’s so much support and encouragement to live life to the full. I’m not the person I was before.”

Del’s dedication has inspired many and her commitment is breathing new life into a club which was on the brink of closure.

In 2022, with dwindling numbers and many members in their 80s, the future of the Pink Snapdragons looked uncertain.

But Del led come-and-try events, boosted numbers and revived the club’s competitive spirit.

By 2024 there was a new committee and a drive to fulfill Del’s dream - a Pinkies team from Redcliffe Dragons Club.

That dream took off in September when six breast cancer survivor paddlers joined others from local clubs at the Pumicestone Festival and won a bronze medal.

At year’s Queensland State Championships, with the team - many racing for the very first time – took bronze in both 200m and 500m events.

“These wonderful ladies are the reason I’m still a member of this club,” Del said. “I am so proud of their achievements.”

Redcliffe Reds, from Pink Snapdragon’s sister club, help with coaching and fitness training, particularly Iciar Argus and Vince De Gregorio.

Now Redcliffe Red Dragons, with some Snappies, are off to Penrith for the Australian Championships this week.

Hopes are high after the DBQ State titles where Reds won silver and bronze in Senior C Mixed 10s and Senior B Women 10s and bronze in Senior A Open 10s.

For more information phone 0417 716544, email [email protected] or visit www.pinksnapdragons.com