On June 7–8, 2025, the Lethally Blind Dragon Boat Team made waves at the Portland Rose Festival Dragon Boat Races, proudly competing in four races after a dedicated two-month training season.
Leading up to race weekend, our paddlers trained three times a week to master technique, build endurance, and develop the teamwork that defines dragon boat racing. For many of our blind paddlers, this was their first time on the water—yet their determination and resilience shone through every practice.
This season was especially exciting as we welcomed several new paddlers into the Lethally Blind family. Among them were a dedicated mother-and-son duo, four inspiring sisters (two of whom are blind), and others who quickly embraced the spirit of paddling. Their commitment was extraordinary—they learned the sport in just a few weeks and brought fresh energy and passion to the team. Many have already pledged to continue paddling year-round with our affiliated team, Wasabi VIP.
Racing in Subdivision 2 against a strong field, the team gave everything they had. While we didn’t advance to the finals, our hard work paid off in the consolation race, where we paddled with heart and secured an impressive third-place finish.
Watch the team in action here!
Beyond the results, the weekend reflected something even more powerful: the bonds built among teammates. From blind paddlers gaining confidence and independence, to friendships forged both on and off the water, the sense of community was one of the season’s greatest achievements.
This accomplishment would not have been possible without the support of the Northwest Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA) and the Craig and Linn Dee Stein Mini Grant Fund.
The Mini Grant Fund provides small grants to help individuals of all ages and abilities who are blind participate in local, regional, and international competitions by covering registration fees or minor equipment needs. By removing financial barriers, the fund ensures that athletes like those on the Lethally Blind Dragon Boat Team can focus on reaching their goals, not worrying about costs.
Thanks to this support, our paddlers had the chance to take the water and represent the blind community in one of Portland’s most exciting sporting traditions.
The strength of Lethally Blind is not just measured in strokes or seconds, but in the reflections of those who paddle together:
“Team Lethally Blind, you are so precious. Your dedication to the sport and what it takes to really learn and then race is breathtaking. But you are all so much more than that. You watched out for each other, gave it all you had on the water, and wrote another chapter in your own book.”
— Char Cook, Original Captain
“It’s been over 10 years since I lost my sight, and dragon boating has given me confidence, friendship, and a place to belong. Despite my struggles with addiction and loss, this team makes me feel at home. That’s why I paddle.”
— Nick Young, Blind Paddler
“Every inch you stretched forward, every stroke you buried deep, every pain you ignored to keep going—it all added up to that tenth of a second victory. You kept the grit, the patience, and the generosity going until the very last race. LB ROCKS!”
— Glenda Lesher, Assistant Coach
“We are athletes who have found a place to hone our skills, clear our minds, and calm our hearts. We are friends and partners who show up for one another. I love the joy on the boat, the smiles, and the support. WE ARE LB!”
— Jim Hinsvark, Past Coach
These powerful words capture what Lethally Blind is all about: resilience, camaraderie, and the belief that together, anything is possible.
The Lethally Blind Dragon Boat Team’s performance at the Portland Rose Festival was a testament to the power of perseverance, teamwork, and adaptability. We are proud to represent the blind community and to continue proving what’s possible when people come together with dedication and heart.
Congratulations to every paddler on a fantastic season—and here’s to an even stronger 2026!