Dedication of The Ashford
The club’s founder, Mike Ashford, paddling with teammates in The Ashford.
We gather today to bless this boat, The Ashford,
And all who will paddle in her —
breast cancer survivors, thrivers, and the supporters who stand beside them.
May she always find smooth water beneath her,
And the strength of many hearts beating as one.
May she carry her crews in safety,
Lift their spirits in joy,
And bind them together in friendship, courage, and respect.
Let every stroke taken in her be in harmony,
And let every challenge on the water be met with determination and laughter.
As she glides upon Spa Creek and beyond,
May she be a vessel not only of strength and skill,
But of healing, hope, and the enduring legacy of Mike Ashford.
May her dragon head guide her forward,
Her dragon tail remind us of where we have been,
And her crew keep the rhythm of life’s journey.
And when the day is done,
May she return her paddlers safely to shore,
Carrying the stories, the laughter, and the triumphs of the day.
In calm waters and when the current is against us,
May The Ashford always be a symbol of unity, resilience, and love.
— Dedicated with love and gratitude by the Annapolis Dragon Boat Club
