SA Dragons Abreast

S.A. Dragons Abreast Inc. (SADA) was founded in December 2001 by Carlene Butavicius to provide support, hope and inspiration for survivors of breast cancer in South Australia.  The club is a member of DragonBoat SA (DBSA), Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) and the International Breast Cancer Paddlers' Commission (IBCPC).  It is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC).

The use of dragon boating as a rehabilitation for breast cancer survivors began in Canada by Professor Don Mackenzie in 1996, who believed that upper body exercise aided recovery after surgery and improved lymphatic function. Many of our founding and early members were survivors, and they continue to be the core of our club and an important part of our culture.

Early on in the club's development, it became clear that the appeal of dragon boating was far-reaching, and SADA soon widened membership intake and grew to include a sports category.​
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SADA is one of the most competitive dragon boat clubs in South Australia.  As well as competing at state level, SADA has travelled to regattas throughout Australia and the globe, with some brilliant wins and many medals and trophies along the way. 
 
SADA has an active membership of more than 50 paddlers, including their breast cancer survivors, participating in the Premiers, A B & C categories.  We take part in 10 and 20 crew races, at 200, 250, 500, 1000 and 2000 metre distances.  The annual Peter Bristow 'Round-the-Island' race,  of 7km's has been named in honour of Peter Bristow, an early supporter and coach of SADA and friend to all SA dragon boaters and a distinguished member of the SA state team.