Lincoln Rowing Centre launches new programme

Chris Farrell in an Explore stable boat

On Saturday 18th June 2011 Lincoln Rowing Centre launched its Explore Rowing campaign with a ceremony to name four new boats.  Explore Rowing is part of British Rowing’s legacy programme to encourage people of all ages and ability to try the sport.

Lincoln Rowing Centre was set up just over four years ago and in that time has grown to over 90 members by welcoming local rowers from all walks of life.   Most of its member learnt to row at the Centre, and their numbers include University students and members of the RAF from the local bases.

An old pump house on the North bank of the river has been transformed into a well-used and valuable facility for developing rowing in and around the City of Lincoln. Seven members have undertaken UKCC Level 2 coaching qualifications and a junior section was started in 2009 extending the age range of members from 13 to 70 years old. Rowing in Lincoln was a major pastime at the beginning of the 20th Century,  and the aim is that it can be just as popular again and open to all-comers.

With the new boats it will be easier for beginners to learn, allow provision for Adaptive rowing and enable those who use rowing as a fitness or social activity to enjoy themselves on a stretch of water ideal for the purpose.

Joan Neech, the Centre’s Explore Rowing Coordinator says “I never realised I would get so involved with rowing when I retired; I’m busier with Explore Rowing activities than I was when I was working – it’s great.”

Chairman Bruce Margetts with Fiona and Robin Battle, High Sheriff of Lincolnshire

These boats have been acquired with support from:
– the Lincolnshire Short Breaks programme that aims to give carers of young people with disabilities a break whilst their children are occupied with an enjoyable activity. To start this process 10 children from St Francis School have been coming to introductory sessions.
– British Rowing’s Explore Rowing initiative that aims to increase the participative and recreational aspects to rowing – a sport that most people still only see through the Olympics, or Oxford vs Cambridge Boat Race. The reality is that, akin to swimming and running, rowing is a great recreational activity too.