NEW GLASGOW, N.S. — A founder and long-term supporter of New Glasgow’s annual Race on the River, Joanne Cumminger, has been named the honorary chair of this Race on the River Dragon Boat Festival which will be held in New Glasgow on July 26 and July 27.
Cumminger is a lifelong resident of Plymouth, Pictou County and is a graduate from the Aberdeen Hospital Nursing School and St. Francis Xavier Bachelor of Science Nursing Program. Prior to retiring she was a Pictou County Health Authority employee with 44 years in nursing. Cumminger says her most rewarding job was as a Cancer Patient Navigator assisting cancer clients through a very complex system during a stressful time in their lives.
“I am humbled to serve as the Honourary Chair of the Pictou County 18th Annual Race on the River,” she said. “This event is very dear to my heart as I was instrumental in starting the Dragon Boating Program with the Women Alike Breast cancer Survivors 20 years ago, never dreaming it would grow to this extent.”
Cumminger is the recipient of numerous awards including the Princess Diana Humanitarian Award, YMCA Peace Medal, The Queen Elizabeth Silver Jubilee Award, the Senate 150 Medal and the Canadian Nurse of the Year Award.
“The Dragon Boat Races proved that under the leadership of the Dragon Boat Society, volunteers, racing teams and the cheering crowd we can achieve first class races that are family oriented and a go to event of the summer. I also know that the three deserving charities give back to communities, enhancing the lives of those involved and improving the lives of those in the future.”
Opening ceremonies for this year’s event are on Friday, July 26 and races begin at 8 a.m. Saturday, July 27. Aside from watching the races the festival offers children’s activities, musical entertainment, games and great food being offered by on site vendors.
Teams are encouraged to register prior to May 17 to take advantage of the early bird registration fee and registration deadline is June 7. For more information please visit www.raceontheriver.com or to inquire about registering a team please contacts Anne Baxter at [email protected] or 902-754-9817 or 902-752-3304
