Paddlers Raise Money For Breast Cancer

TORONO, ON, September 08, 2012 (Press-News.org) Happening on September 8 and 9, 2012 at Marilyn Bell Park, the event is an excellent opportunity to get involved in the community, enjoy the fun of dragon boat racing, and spend two days by Toronto's waterfront, all in support of a good cause.

"We want to expose the community to the fun and excitement of the sport and at the same time, its strong philanthropic spirit", says Aaron Soroka, Chief Operating Officer, GWN Dragon Boat. "This year, we have teamed up with CIBC to support the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation - Ontario Region. It'll be a great weekend of racing, fun activities for the family, and all while supporting a tremendous charity and the good work they do."

CIBC is presenting not only the event, as part of a three-year commitment, but also an exclusive area for Breast Cancer Survivor teams. The CIBC Breast Cancer Survivor Village will be the hub for survivors to spend the weekend with family, friends and supporters while sharing stories and creating life-long bonds.

"Breast cancer is a cause that is very close to our hearts at CIBC because it affects so many Canadians," said Christina Kramer, Executive Vice-President, CIBC. "Together with the many CIBC employees who will be taking part in the event, CIBC is proud to be partnering with the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation on the GWN Dragon Boat Challenge to support breast cancer survivors and be part of the ongoing efforts to raise awareness about breast cancer."

Dragons Abreast Toronto, a Breast Cancer Survivor team participating at the festival, will be competing in the event as well as raising funds for the cause. In addition to the event having a Breast Cancer Survivor Division, there will be a Flower Ceremony scheduled on Sunday at 2:45PM to commemorate Breast Cancer Survivors and those that have passed on.

"Dragons Abreast Toronto is pleased to have two crews registered for event and is looking forward to racing this weekend with Pickering's Pink Sensations. It is through the generous support of corporations like CIBC that make it possible for thousands of breast cancer survivors in Canada to pursue dragon boating as a way to address their physical, emotional, social and spiritual well being," says Vicki Goldson, Board Chair for Dragons Abreast Toronto. "Dragon boating can be a means to living well after a breast cancer illness. The physical activity of dragon boating allows breast cancer survivors to move from illness to wellness by reaping the many benefits of exercising in a supportive team environment."

Through participant and team pledges, money raised at the GWN Dragon Boat Challenge Presented by CIBC will fund groundbreaking research, education, awareness and advocacy.

"Thanks to events like this the Foundation is able to invest in research and fellowships that are changing the landscape of what is known and understood about breast cancer and have enabled advancements in prevention, earlier detection, breast cancer treatment and patient care." says Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation - Ontario Region CEO Sandra Palmaro. "We are proud to be the charity partner of the GWN Dragon Boat Challenge Presented by CIBC."

"Our fundraising goal is $50,000 and with over 110 dragon boat teams participating, we know we can reach that goal," says Aaron Soroka. "For added motivation, we're awarding the top fundraising team with a free team entry to all of GWN's Major League Dragon Boat Events in 2013. Look for plenty of rivalry both on and off the water."

Over 15,000 participants and spectators are expected to take part in the racing festivities and visit the numerous vendors, exhibitors, and interactive zones at the festival. Families, young and old, are invited to be a part of an incredible community event and support the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. Entry to the festival grounds is free to the public.

About the GWN Dragon Boat Challenge presented by CIBC
The GWN Dragon Boat Challenge presented by CIBC is one of North America's largest dragon boat events. This two day festival is hosted at Marilyn Bell Park from September 8-9 and features dragon boat racing, a variety of vendors/exhibitors, and activities for the entire family. For more information, visit http://www.gwndragonboat.com

About Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation
The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation was founded in 1986 as the first community-driven organization in the country devoted exclusively to breast cancer research, health promotion and advocacy. Our goal is to reduce the number of people diagnosed with breast cancer, and to improve quality of life for those affected. We direct donor dollars to world-class researchers and clinicians who are making groundbreaking progress in breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care. Since 1986, the Foundation's Ontario Region has awarded over $84 million in funding for nearly 600 grants, supporting research projects, fellowships and community health initiatives. For more information please visit http://www.cbcf.org/ontario

About CIBC
CIBC is a leading North American financial institution with nearly 11 million personal banking and business clients. CIBC is committed to supporting causes that matter to our clients, our employees and our communities. We aim to make a difference in communities through corporate donations, sponsorships and the volunteer spirit of employees. In 2011, CIBC contributed more than $35 million to charitable and non-profit initiatives in Canada to support national, regional and local organizations.

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For more information:

Aaron Soroka
Chief Operating Officer
Great White North Communications Inc.
416-962-8899
aaron@gwndragonboat.com

Sean Hamilton
CIBC
Director, External and Media Relations
416-304-8456
sean.hamilton@cibc.com