Wind, Waves & Welcome

DUC PINK kicked off the 2026 season back on our home waters at White Rock Lake, launching two boats for our first paddle of the year. It was especially exciting to welcome eight rookies to the team—paddlers new to DUC PINK who jumped right in and made their presence felt from the first strokes.

The lake made sure we earned it. Strong winds and determined currents kept everyone on their toes, but our crews handled it like pros. The boats stayed steady, the rhythm came together, and the perseverance carried across the water.

Special credit goes to our two steers, who had their hands full battling the wind and some mighty strong lake currents to keep both boats on course. It was no small task, and they handled it beautifully.

We were also excited to start the season under the leadership of our new lead coach, Taffie Butters, a Team USA member of the first-ever Breast Cancer Survivor dragon boat team. Having her experience, leadership, and passion guiding our paddlers makes this season even more meaningful.

This season also carries extra excitement as many of our paddlers prepare for the International Breast Cancer Paddlers’ Commission (IBCPC) Festival in Aix-les-Bains, France, where survivor teams from around the world will gather to celebrate life, strength, and sisterhood through dragon boating.

Windy conditions, two full boats, and eight enthusiastic rookies—a strong and joyful way to begin the season. If this first paddle is any indication, it’s going to be a fantastic year on the water for DUC PINK.