Learn to Row 2009 - Highlights so far...

The 2009 Learn to row (LTR) started on the 13th September. From 65 rowing hopefuls who turned up to Rowing Taster sessions 16 were successful in joining the course. This consisted of 7 women and 9 men most of which had never even sat in a rowing boat before. They were split into two crews on their first session and designated seats. We kept them in the same positions throughout the course with the intention of building team spirit. I'm pretty sure this worked (from how competitive they were when it came to the end race!).

The course takes the rowers through the basics of rowing with each session concentrating on an aspect such as getting rhythm or powering through the legs.
But the first session is very much about getting the rowers used to the language! One of my favourite moments from the first session was when a cox, anxious to sit the boat, asked the rowers to raise their hands to which one of them took their hands of the blade and put them in the air - That's when you realise that not everyone understands your "rowing speak"!

They each had to endure weekly ergs as part of the sessions where we worked on getting the basic stroke right to help them in the water. We had some amazing help from club members along the way and the course really benefitted from this.

We were blessed with good weather for the duration of the course and mainly light evenings. I am sure they will enjoy the experience of rowing through the ice during dark winter evenings now that most of them have joined the club's Novice Squad!

I have thoroughly enjoyed being part of this group's Learn to Row experience and the feedback I have had from the group has been great. I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who helped with coxing and coaching on the LTR and continue to help with the Novice Squad.

Lucy (2009 Learn2row Co-ordinator)

Not only did I meet loads of really lovely people, but have found a sport I am really passionate about - and am getting fitter in the process

~ Leander

I can't believe how much I have learned in such a short space of time. It was eye-opening to realise just how challenging a sport it is, both physically and mentally

~ Nick

Without exception everyone involved has been great and given us really useful feedback

~ Shona

That the training was done brilliantly - after five weeks our boats entered a competition and we did really well - that I think showed the level of the training

~ Emma

I finally got to take up rowing properly with a great introduction and the chance to take it further as part of the best novice squad ever!

~ Jenny