About Us

Seattle’s rowing community has been a strong source of support for local breast cancer patients as they face the battle of their lifetime.

Our History

Pink Ribbon Row traces its origins to the shared vision of Portland rower Kathryn Frederick and Seattle’s own Penny Lewis, co-founder of Martha’s Moms Rowing Club. Their passion and the dedication of countless volunteers helped shape the event into the largest rowing regatta supporting breast cancer awareness in the country.

Since 1999, Seattle’s Lake Union has hosted this annual event, uniting the rowing community in support of those impacted by breast cancer in the Pacific Northwest. Originally partnering with a national organization, our focus was broad but always grounded in community action. Along the way, we became the proud home of the “Pink Erg” and the D.A.M.P.E.R. (Donating A Mammogram Per Every Rower) initiative.

In 2022, we sharpened our mission, focusing on localized impact through early detection and post-diagnosis support. In 2025, PNW Pink Ribbon Row officially launched its own nonprofit organization to maximize the difference we can make in our community. We’re taking the next step to strengthen our mission—ensuring that every dollar raised continues to support those who need it most, right here at home.

Our Values

Compassion

We embody a culture of empathy and understanding, acknowledging the unique challenges every person affected by breast cancer faces within our local community.

Unity

We believe in the strength that comes from a united rowing community. Together, we create a powerful support system for individuals navigating the complexities of their battle.

Provide Support

We are committed to raising awareness about breast cancer within our local community, promoting education, early detection, and the importance of a supportive network.

Inclusivity

We foster an inclusive environment, welcoming individuals of any background, age or ethnicity to our team, participants, or attendees. This inclusivity makes us stronger, broadens our perspectives, deepens our empathy, and enhances our ability to positively impact lives.

Community-Centric

Our commitment is to prioritize the wellbeing and support of our local community members trying to reclaim their lives. Our initiatives are designed to make a positive and meaningful impact on their journey towards health.

Transparency

Dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of breast cancer patients, we strive in our commitment to minimal overhead costs. Our transparent practices ensure that contributions are utilized effectively, with most donations going directly to those in need.

Our Leadership & Members

Pink Ribbon Row is entirely powered by the commitment of our volunteers. Our committee is a consortium of rowers from various rowing clubs in the region, each having a connection to breast cancer – either as a survivor, a family member, or by having a teammate affected by this disease. Our unwavering dedication and exceptional efforts contribute significantly to the overall positive experience for all participants and attendees.

Leadership

Angie Gabel

PNW Pink Ribbon Row Chair

Angie has over 25 years of rowing experience, chaired regattas, and rowing events in Austin, TX, volunteered for ten years at the Head of the Charles, and competed nationally and internationally as a Masters rower. As a breast cancer survivor, she is enthusiastic about chairing Pink Ribbon Row since 2023 and making a difference for breast cancer patients in our local community.

Rachel Le Mieux

Regatta Director

Rachel has been involved in rowing since 1979 and is currently the Executive Director of Pocock Rowing Club. In 2023, she was the Regatta Director for the combined Pac-12 and GNAC conference rowing championships. Her extensive background in various leadership positions, outstanding credentials, and experience make her invaluable to run the regatta for our cause.

Mariah Foster

Chief Referee

Mariah has been the Chief Referee for PRR for many years and has actively contributed to the event’s growth. She started as a youth rower, continued as a collegiate rower, and then transitioned to the referee role. Her invaluable experience in her 15+ years as a referee and her passion about ensuring the safety of all rowers at the event make her a key figure of the regatta.

Committee Members

Patty Bulger, Registrar
Robin Ahman, Beneficiary Relations Coordinator
Birgit Bertram, Permitting
Oliver Laurence, Course Layout
Kate Riley, Community Relations
Charles Comfort, Volunteer Coordinator

Seattle’s Rowing Community

Fulfilling our mission is only possible due to the dedication of Seattle’s rowing community. We are thankful for their support in volunteering, racing, and fundraising – year after year. We couldn’t do it without you:

Pocock Boathouse:

Lake Washington Boathouse:

Mount Baker Boathouse:

Lake Union Boathouse:

The PRR Foundation's Board of Directors

Guiding the mission. Steering the course. Supporting the cause.

Our Board of Directors is a dedicated group of volunteer leaders, who guide the vision, uphold the mission, and bring this powerful community event to life each year. Rooted in a shared commitment to breast cancer advocacy, rowing, and local impact, these individuals lend their time, talents, and hearts to ensure every stroke counts. Together, they steer our organization forward with purpose and passion toward breast cancer awareness and support across the Pacific Northwest.

Executive Committee

Angie Gabel, Board President
Charles H. Comfort Jr., Vice President
Oliver Laurence, Treasurer
Birgit Bertram, Secretary
Patricia Bulger, Member at Large

General Board Members

Robin Ahmann
Kate Riley
Rachel Le Mieux
Mariah Foster

Want to Get Involved?

We are always looking for passionate community leaders to support our mission. If you are interested in joining a committee or learning more about our work, please reach out to us!

Contact Us

Have a question or inquiry?

You are interested in supporting us? Do you have questions regarding racing, volunteering, donating, or philanthropy? Contact us!