Boats of all shapes and sizes float up and down the Willamette River, but one style stands out from the rest. Sporting a long, canoe-like form and distinct head and tail ornamentation, dragon boats cut a mesmerizing sight as they glide swiftly past downtown Portland.

The origins of dragon boat racing stretch back over 2,000 years to the valleys of southern China. Locally, the sport is best known for yearly races held during the Rose Festival and again during the Portland Dragon Boat Festival.

Shea Akers, a member of local dragon boat team Pink Phoenix, is currently gearing up for the latter, which will take place Saturday, Sept. 7 and Sunday, Sept. 8 at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Read on to learn about her journey and how dragon boating is changing lives in the City of Roses.

What’s the meaning behind your team’s name, Pink Phoenix?

Our team name honors the mythical bird who rises from the ashes symbolizing rebirth and the beginning of a new life. We feel this replicates where many of us find ourselves after a breast cancer diagnosis. We are all looking to begin a new chapter in life after cancer. Pink Phoenix is a non-profit organization whose mission is to empower breast cancer survivors through the sport of dragon boating. Teammates find strength and quality of life by paddling together while having the common thread of a breast cancer diagnosis — the only requirement to join the team.

"I first became involved with dragon boating in 2019 when I decided to join the team Pink Phoenix... I have been hooked ever since," said Akers (pictured front right). | Photo courtesy of Pink Phoenix

How has being a part of dragon boating and Pink Phoenix impacted your life?

Pink Phoenix has completely changed my life. Not only have I found a sport that I love but I have gained a community of sisters who understand what I have been through, and am currently going through again 12 years later, and are ready and willing to help and support me in whatever I may need. It’s huge to have that many women lifting me up and encouraging me through my healing process. I wouldn’t be able to do it without them!

What’s one thing you wish other people knew about dragon boating?

Dragon boating is more than just a sport. It’s an entire community of like-minded people who are amazing at making anyone feel welcomed and valued. It’s the camaraderie… that’s what makes this community special. There are no superstars in the sport because to move the boat forward everyone has to be in sync — paddling at the same rate. It truly is the best representation of team sport.

"The Pinks are on the river three times a week during race season and travel to local, regional, national, and international races from March through October," said Akers. | Photo courtesy of Pink Phoenix

How can people try dragon boating for the first time in the Portland area?

With a variety of teams of all skill levels, ages, and genders, there's going to be a team that's right for anyone. Be ready to get a great workout, make new friends, and enjoy being outside on the water. Plus, some teams paddle ALL YEAR (even in the winter). The best way to get started is to take a look at DragonSports USA at DragonSports.org. DragonSports is the driving force in developing paddlers of all abilities and ages through a responsive, well-coordinated program of boat and equipment rental, and of sponsoring (at least one) local races.

What kind of prerequisites should interested folks expect?

Dragon boats are like long canoes, with 10 paddlers on each side. It's a tough workout that works your whole body and will get your heart pumping. New paddlers are always welcome, regardless of fitness level. We'll teach you the proper technique and ensure you have a good time. Open practices are available if you'd like to give it a try without committing. Go to DragonSports.org and click on "new to the sport."