The sound of war drums could be heard in Saskatoon Saturday as 700 competitors took to the river during the dragon-boat festival. 

The event raised money for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, which hopes to raise $75,000 at the festival.

For some competitors, the fundraiser hits a personal note. Every day, 23 people in Saskatchewan have a heart attack or stroke. They’re the leading cause of death in Canada.

For Joanne Dwernychuk and the rest of her Busting with Energy team, the competition is a symbol of resiliency for survivors. “It’s a celebration of life.  Its proving that breast cancer does not control your life."