Christmas tree decorated with pink ribbons, paddles, and ADBC ornaments
As 2022 comes to a close, we would like to extend our sincere appreciation to all our members and supporters who have devoted time, energy, and financial resources to fulfill our mission in the community and keep our boats afloat.
With your help, the Annapolis Dragon Boat Club (ADBC) provided those diagnosed with breast cancer an outlet for recreation, comradery, and recovery. This year, we:
- grew to 100+ members, 60 percent of whom are breast cancer warriors;
- practiced five times a week on the beautiful Spa Creek;
- attended three races; and
- started expanding our fleet from two to three boats.
The Pier 4 Marina, owned by Chris McCleary, has been the perfect home port for the Club. We appreciate Chris’ support and encouragement in allowing us to take over the marina for our May Opening of the Eyes Ceremony. Mayor Gavin Buckley, Dr. Lorraine Tafra, and our founder, Mike Ashford, attended as our esteemed guests. Chris and Mayor Buckley even rode in the boats, expertly keeping time from the drummers’ seats as we paddled down Ego Alley.
Another milestone occurred in October. Our first annual ADBC Dragonfest fundraiser shut down Fourth Street in Eastport with live music, a raffle and silent auction, beer provided by Forward Brewing, oysters from Hollywood Oyster Company, and BBQ from Red, Hot, and Blue. Thank you to everyone who helped make the event a huge success!
Finally, we are proud to introduce new sponsorship partners this year.
- Bosom Buddies Charities, who generously provided ADBC a grant to establish the Brigitte Wallace McKee Fund to support our breast cancer outreach efforts
- Route One Apparel
- Under Armour
- Wellness House
2023 is already shaping up to be another eventful year. In April, we’re going to New Zealand for the International Breast Cancer Paddlers’ Commission’s festival, the “Olympics” of breast cancer dragon boating. Over 50 ADBC members and supporters will make the long trek to join 5,000 paddlers and spectators from all over the world. We also have several training camps scheduled in March and April, including one in Orlando, Florida. And we are looking forward to registering soon for our summer season of races.
We couldn’t be more thankful for our time together on the water this year, especially after not paddling in 2021 due to COVID. We rekindled friendships among our ADBC family, and we are stronger together.
We wish you a very healthy and happy holiday season and all the best in 2023. Please remember ADBC, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, in your end-of-the-year giving. Thank you.
Paddles up!
Joni Krafft
ADBC Chairwoman
