Frances A. Arzu' made it happen!

This amazing woman was introduced to dragon boating shortly after she completed treatment for breast cancer.  In her words,

"I had always exercised and loved the water, but had never paddled before. The first time, I got on the boat, I fell in love.  But, what inspired me was the amazing Canadian team that was at the very first race, I participated in--the average age of these ladies was probably 65.

I wanted to empower fellow survivors in the same way that I had become empowered. So, in 2007, I spearheaded the formation of Pink Phurree.  In 3 short years, not only have we managed to raise enough funds for paddles and life vests (I sold 90% of the calendars) and our very own pink boat.  We are one of the few teams that have accomplished so much in so little time.
 
What keeps me going is the ladies that I have the privilege of calling teammates and friends.  I have seen women blossom in such amazing ways. My favorite quote (and there are many) is 'I'm now an athlete and it took me 62 years to get there'. I smile every time I think of that.  Although, Pink Phurree takes a lot of time from my actual work, it is worth every single minute."