Florence Dragon Lady Lilt Celebrate 20 Years of Empowering Breast Cancer Survivors Through Dragon Boat Racing
Florence, Italy – February 23, 2026 – The Florence Dragon Lady Lilt team is celebrating two decades of activity, resilience and community support. The anniversary will be commemorated on February 25th at La Loggia, Piazzale Michelangelo, with a special event attended by Lilt Firenze President Alexander Peirano, Vice President Susanna Bausi, institutional representatives, and the many women who have been part of the crew over the years.
A Celebration of Strength and Recovery
The 20th anniversary isn’t just a celebratory milestone, but also an opportunity to reflect on the journey built with passion, commitment, and continuity,” stated Alexander Peirano, President of Lilt Firenze. The event will serve as a moment of remembrance and gratitude for all who have contributed to the team’s success.
What is Dragon Boat Racing?
Dragon Boat racing is a globally recognized water sport involving teams of 20 athletes paddling in unison on a 12.66-meter long boat adorned with a dragon head and tail. The pace is set by a drummer, while a steersperson guides the boat with a long oar.
The Rise of “Pink” Crews and the Florence Dragon Lady Lilt
Since 1996, over one hundred “pink” crews – teams comprised of breast cancer survivors – have emerged worldwide, transforming the sport into a powerful tool for rehabilitation and renewed vitality. In 2006, through the dedication of Lilt (the Italian League for the Fight Against Cancer) and collaboration with the Florence Municipal Rower, the Florence Dragon Lady – Lilt was established. The team’s mission is to unite sport, friendship, and a love for life following a cancer diagnosis.
A Community of Over 70 Women
Currently, the Florence Dragon Lady Lilt team includes over 70 women, with a strong sense of camaraderie extending to those who are no longer with the group. Rowing is an integral part of their psycho-physical rehabilitation, supported by specialists from the Cerion Oncological Rehabilitation Center at Villa delle Rose (Ispro-Lilt).
Beyond the Water: Community Engagement and Expansion
From its inception, the Florence Dragon Lady Lilt has actively supported the creation of novel teams, sharing experiences, values, and expertise. The team has also fostered strong relationships with local institutions and the broader economic and sporting community, promoting a culture of inclusion, prevention, and active participation – core values of the Italian League for the Fight Against Cancer.
Looking Ahead
“Twenty years of challenges faced together, of intertwined relationships and collective growth,” commented Alexander Peirano. “This is an opportunity to reaffirm the importance of comprehensive oncological rehabilitation, renew our sporting and social commitment, consolidate existing collaborations, and explore new perspectives.”
The Florence Dragon Lady Lilt actively participates in dragon boat competitions and gatherings both nationally and internationally, including the International Breast Cancer Paddlers’ Commission (IBCPC) International Festival, which brings together over one hundred teams from five continents. The next edition will be held in Aix-les-Bains, France, from August 24th to 30th, and the Florence Dragon Lady Lilt will be represented by two crews.