Deb Marshman​​​​​​

Occupation:

I spent many years doing farm work & currently working with Bulla Ice Cream

Country of Birth:

Australia

When was my first Dragon Boat Experience:

My first Dragon Boat experience was at a DAA Come & Try day 2014 in Geelong

Did I participate in Dragon Boat elsewhere, prior to joining a DBV club?

No, I wasn't even aware Dragon Boating was a thing in Australia let alone in Geelong.

How I found out about Dragon Boat:

My surgeon suggested I try paddling to help control Lymphoedema that I developed following Breast Cancer surgery. 

My current Dragon Boat club:

Very proud to call Dragons Abreast Geelong-Juggernauts my pink family

Something that my club doesn’t already know about me?

At the age of 16, I was the first Victorian female to compete in the CFA State Demonstration Competitions & Championships. I was a member of the Freshwater Creek CFA Brigade at the time, many females compete today .

Type of music I listen to.

I enjoy listening to country music

My favourite seat row(s) or Drummer, Sweep

I've been a stroke for the past 4 years

Personal paddling achievements:

My first paddling achievement was "getting in the Dragon Boat" with a bunch of inspirational BC survivors & being able to actually help paddle this huge boat. Paddling in my first ever regatta, aged 52 & surviving, to race another race in the same day, to me was a huge achievement. I would have never thought it possible to take up such a sport at age 50+, I wish I had known of Dragon Boat years ago.

My memorable paddling moments:

Paddling in any regatta is memorable when you're middle aged! Paddling with DA Geelong at the Australian Masters Adelaide last year was a wonderful experience, paddling in 9 races over 2 days, bettering our PB in some races.

Winning my first team trophy 3rd, at CNY Docklands earlier this year with DA Geelong in the DAA section was a great highligh. 

Sports I did before I become a Dragon Boat member:

I enjoyed tennis until injury made me retire

My favourite quote for Dragon Boating:

It's " Paddling NOT Rowing!!!!"

If I could choose one superpower what would it be and why?

How wonderful it would be to have a superpower to rid the world of all debilitating diseases & bring happiness to everyone.

My words of advice for new comers?

How would I promote Dragon Boat to my best buddy?

My future expectation about this sport:

I would hope Dragon Boating continues to grow among all age groups Juniors- Seniors including Dragons Abreast. It's a sport that can take you world wide.

Significant photos of Dragon Boating.

Our first team trophy 3rd, at CNY Dragon Boat Festival by DBV in Docklands February 2020. 

Chilly morning with the team.