Every journey starts with a single step, mine started when I walked into the boat house in 2021 and joined the Dragon Boat team.

My job and my passion as a Specialist Palliative Care nurse comes with its complexities and emotional demands, during the pandemic the demand rapidly increased. Dragon Boating gave me an outlet and a new challenge. During the past two years I have developed a love for the sport whereby it has consumed me. Dragon Boat racing is a sport that requires dedication, teamwork, and relentless determination.

This year I have taken another bold step and trialled for the Senior A Great Britain Dragon Boat Squad and I have successfully been selected. This means I will be competing in the European Championships in Prague between the 1st and 8th of July 2024 with the GB squad.

This is not a journey of steps but of commitment and enduring physical battle to get myself to the strongest I can be in a matter of weeks to make our boat go faster! Over the past few weeks training has intensified and I have invested time in personal training, nutritional guidance and committed to training camps across the country to refine my water skills and technique.

This is a monumental opportunity for me to join the GB squad but I need your support to make this dream become a reality.

Many sacrifices have been made for this one opportunity. Unlike many other sports, Dragon Boat racing is entirely self-funded by the athletes. From equipment to travel expenses, every aspect of my journey to the European Championships requires financial support. Your generous donations will directly contribute to covering the costs associated with transportation, accommodation, fees, and training equipment.

Every contribution, no matter how big or small, makes a significant impact on my journey. Your donation will go towards funding the trip to the European Championships.

Please share my story, even if you do not donate by sharing this you will help raise the profile of Dragon Boating and hopefully increase its profile.

Whether you donate, share my page or fancy coming and having a go at Dragon Boating your support and generosity is greatly appreciated.

Thank you for taking the time to read about my journey.

Small steps can make big changes : )

Grace