NATIONAL
LEARN TO ROW DAY 2002
Link to 2003 Learn To Row Day Information
Saturday May 18, 2002 marked the second annual "National Learn to Row Day" sponsored by the US Rowing Association. The Bay City Rowing Club marked the day by holding two free clinics at their Middle Grounds boathouse.
Although the day was a bit cold and wet, the event was a great success. Nearly 50 people turned out for the two sessions. Visitors came from as far away as Flint, South Lyons and Mount Pleasant. The Club's coaching staff was on hand to provide instructions and members of the Central High Crew helped with boat handling and individual tutoring.
Each clinic started with a tour of the boathouse and a short introduction to the club and it's programs. This was followed by coaches describing the sport of rowing and discussing terminology and safety.
Each class also took a turn on to the "ergs" (rowing machines) to learn the basics of arm and leg motions and the feel of sliding seats. Rowing is a year round sport and winter competitions are held using the machines. The BCRC has 8 ergs at the boathouse, 4 of which are new Concept 2's.
"Rail Rowing" gives everyone a chance to see how to handle the oars. The railings around the boathouse porch provide just the right spot for this technique. Coaches can demonstrate then observe to be sure that students understand the proper way to hold, move and handle the long oars.
A necessary part of rowing is getting the boats to and from the water. Each class took a turn carrying their boat down to the water, launching it, taking it out and returning it to the boathouse. This seemingly simple task is actually a practiced procedure which is coordinated by the coxswain who calls commands and guides the 50 foot boat to and from the water.
Everyone got a chance to get on the water. The morning class sent out two "8"'s and one "4". The afternoon class took one "8" and a "4". Each boat was accompanied by a motor launch from which the coach can instruct. The launches also serve as "safety boats" in the unlikely event of a problem on the water.
Learn to Row day is the first event of the BCRC's annual rowing program. Regular clinics are held five days a week beginning Monday, May 20. For more information contact the club by E-mail, phone at (989) 892-5769. You can write to the club at
Bay City Rowing Club
P.O. Box 1144
Bay City, MI 48706
The BCRC wishes to express our thanks to event sponsors for their generous support:
- Thanks to Mike Sullivan of Sysco Food Service for providing bottled water and great cookies for the event.
- And thanks to Scott Dixon of Papa Johns Pizza for providing pizza's for everyone!
