Tribute to Vicki

It is with deep sadness that the team of SA Dragons Abreast advise that Vicki Nottage, our team captain and sweep passed away peacefully at home on Friday 1st November 2002. Vicki has been an integral member in SA Dragons Abreast in both the founding of the club and its success. Vicki loved the sport of dragon boating with passion, enjoying the comradeship, support and encouragement one receives from Dragons Abreast. Vicki was always proactive about using Dragons Abreast as a platform to spread awareness of Breast Cancer to the wider community.

The team are grateful for all the support we and Dragon Boating could give to Vicki through her illness and especially appreciative of being able to share her delight of participating in the Rome competitions. Whilst Vicki was unwell in Rome her courage, determination and passion for dragon boating shone through as she swept the boat to the winning of gold and silver.

Sadly, Rome was the final moment of Vicki's enjoyment of dragon boating as on return she was admitted to hospital with the sad diagnosis of her terminal illness. Vicki proudly displayed the cup and medals in her bedroom and they continued to bring her joy through her time of suffering.

Vicki's passing has reminded us all of how wonderful Dragons Abreast is. The love and support the team has been able to give to Vicki and her family has been immeasurable. We took Vicki's daughter, Jessica, and husband, David, out in the boat last night during practise. It was a very special moment for all of us as we threw pink rose petals on the water in memory of Vicki.

A service was held Thursday at 11am in a park by a river. SA Dragons Abreast provided a guard of honour and released 22 pink balloons.

We will all cherish the memories of Vicki, the wonderful times we shared, her amazing courage and beautiful warm smile.