Home Sweet Home

There is nothing like competing in front of a hometown crowd! Dallas United PINK had the opportunity to do just that on Sunday, May 19, 2024, as they took part in the first Asian American Pacific Islander Dragon Boat Festival at White Rock Lake. The festival brought together 15 teams from Dallas, Austin, Houston, and Oklahoma City, hosted at the historic Bath House Cultural Center. This event marked the realization of a long-held dream.

The idea for the festival originated from members of PINK’s "sister" organization, DUC D’elites - a competitive club dragon boat team - who envisioned a festival on their home waters. Through their leadership, a collaboration was established between them, the City of Dallas, and The National Association of Asian American Professionals. The result was a full day of celebrating AAPI heritage with food, performances, crafts, vendors, and of course...dragon boat races!

The members of Dallas United PINK, a diverse and passionate group of breast cancer survivors, began training in March for this, the first race of the year. From seasoned paddlers to their three newcomers eager to make their mark, each member brought unique energy to the team. As they gathered at the shores of White Rock Lake under the marshalling tent for their first heat, the anticipation and excitement were palpable.

As they loaded the dragon boat, adorned in vibrant pink life vests and coordinating paddles, there were more than a few nerves. While they paddled toward the starting line, the cheers of friends, families, and supporters echoed across the lake, fueling their determination to give their best performance.

With the sound of the starting horn, the team propelled forward with synchronized precision, lead by their drummer’s rhythmic pounding of the drum. It was a short 200 meter sprint, and in order to win, they would have to maintain focus and determination.

At 1 minute and 3 seconds, they crossed the finish line, less than 1 second ahead of their competitor! This was the first of three races they won that day. And as they celebrated together, they knew that this was just the beginning of their journey as a team, bound by a love for the sport and a commitment to each other.

There’s nothing like being together on the water, and there’s no place like home!

Rookies: Lisa, Mary Beth, and Rachel

AAPI Dragon Boat Festival Team