Nantes Atlantique Canoë-Kayak (NACK)

Project country: France

Nantes Atlantique Canoë-Kayak (NACK) is a non-profit sports club located on the Erdre River in Nantes, France, offering canoeing, kayaking, and dragon boating activities to its members. In 2011, NACK created the Pink Dragon Ladies, a club for women affected by breast cancer who paddle together every Saturday as part of a health and wellness initiative. Pink Ladies groups have formed around the world since it was discovered that the arm movements involved in paddling reactivate the lymphatic system, activate deep muscles (particularly the back muscles) and improve shoulder mobility, which is particularly beneficial for those affected by breast cancer, as well as having psychological benefits.

In 2025-2026, the Eurofins Foundation is supporting the project “Searching for an APA (Adapted Physical Activity) coach.”

Many women in the group are recovering from breast cancer and face physical challenges such as reduced mobility, fatigue, and muscle weakness. The Pink Dragon Ladies currently train without professional supervision, and without that structured guidance, the group struggles to attract new members and hesitates to participate in events, fearing they are not physically prepared. Financial constraints further complicate access to professional coaching, creating a barrier for women who could benefit most from this activity.

Eurofins Foundation’s grant will support the association recruit a qualified APA coach to lead training sessions tailored to the needs of women recovering from cancer. The coach will improve paddling technique, adapt exercises to individual abilities, and introduce routines that enhance mobility, strength, and endurance. They will also foster team cohesion, motivate participants, and create a safe, supportive environment. The Eurofins Foundation’s grant will help cover part of the coach’s remuneration, making this essential service accessible to all members and ensuring the sustainability of the initiative.

By providing professional guidance, the project will improve health outcomes, reduce the risk of relapse, and promote psychological well-being. Beyond physical benefits, the initiative strengthens social ties, combats isolation, and empowers women to become ambassadors for healthy lifestyles.

This project contributes to the following United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals

Country or Region