Dozens Take Advantage of Learn to Row Day

Morgantown Dominion Post
22 June 2013
Submitted to The Dominion Post

The Monongahela Rowing Association (MRA) thanks all who helped and participated in this year’s National Learn to Row day, held June 1, at the Boathouse on the banks of the Monongahela, in the Morgantown Wharf district.

The organization labored to make this a successful day, but in particular, MRA is grateful to the 14 volunteers who spent the day attending to the visitors. This group included all current MRA board members (David Rosen, Mary E. Hannah, Jane Schupp and John Duarte), the at-large chairwoman for National Learn to Row day (Barbara Linn), three at-large members (Kelly Duarte, Lynn Clough and Adam Herrick), two former MRA members (Shelley Johnson and Dave Lang), the student president of the WVU Men’s Crew Club (Adam Herrick), and four current members of the WVU women’s rowing crew (Karen Verwey, Courtney Schrand, Sarah Taylor and Tiffany Hatcher).

There were 56 people with no rowing experience who registered on site to get on a rowing shell (boat) and take advantage of the opportunity. They ranged in ages from 7 years old to well into the 60s. At least one Morgantown City Council member came to check out the activity and lingered to talk with participants.

There were opportunities to try rowing in competition class 4+ and 8+ sweep shells, and also single sculling shells.

The weather cooperated beautifully, the waters of the Monongahela were calm and welcoming. There were no power boat disturbances, thanks to the no-wake zone now in place on the riverfront.

A dozen participants expressed a desire to take on rowing, and the next Learn To Row class for novices has been scheduled. Additional classes will be held as people register and instructors are available. Membership is open to those interested in the sport.

Email info@monrowing .org or go to monrowning .org.

Registration is also open for Youth Rowing Crew. Email coach@monrowing.org.