Embark on the Oar-inspiring Journey: Unveiling Seattle's Rowing Adventure After 'The Boys in the Boat'

Exploring the Waters: Rowing Adventures Unveiled in the Wake of 'The Boys in the Boat'

A decade ago, the gripping tale of the underdog University of Washington crew team triumphing at the 1936 Summer Games in Berlin captivated readers in the bestselling novel, 'The Boys in the Boat.' Now, with George Clooney's Christmas release of the movie adaptation, the allure of rowing may have captured your imagination. If you're inspired to dip your oars into the waters, Seattle offers a plethora of high-quality options, even for those new to the world of crew.

We delved into the world of rowing by speaking to various rowing centers across the city to uncover the intricacies of the sport, where to row, what skills you'll acquire, and more. Rowing, distinct from paddling, involves rowers moving back-first through the water using oars attached to the boat via oarlocks. There are two main types of rowing: sculling, where each rower wields an oar in each hand, and sweep rowing, where each rower holds one oar with both hands. The boats, aptly named shells, come in various sizes accommodating one, two, four, or eight rowers.

Rowing proves to be a welcoming and beginner-friendly sport, particularly suitable for those seeking a low-impact outdoor activity. According to Kendal Swinski, member services manager at Lake Washington Rowing Club, rowing encompasses "technical coordination, balance, observation, exercising patience, learning, and finally, a full-body and mind workout." Furthermore, it is a sport for all ages, with participants in their 80s still rowing and racing, many of whom discovered the sport in middle age, attests Jason Coffman, a rowing coach since 1991.

Mara Barckert, director of Lake Union Crew, emphasizes the versatility of rowing. "It's like going outside and choosing to go for a leisurely scenic walk, do sprints, or run a marathon," she notes. Whether you prefer solo endeavors or crave the camaraderie of a team, rowing caters to your preferences. Additionally, rowing is a year-round outdoor activity in Seattle, with each season bringing its unique charm. While spring and summer offer pleasant weather and the company of recreational boaters, winter provides a quieter and calmer experience on the lakes.

Seattleites are fortunate, as Coffman declares, "there simply is no bad season to row in Seattle." So, as the echoes of 'The Boys in the Boat' linger, consider embarking on your own rowing adventure amidst the scenic waters of Seattle.

Dive into Seattle's Rowing Scene: Classes and Clubs Aplenty

Seattle boasts a vibrant rowing community, with numerous classes and clubs offering the perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to embrace the sport. Since the release of 'The Boys in the Boat,' there has been a noticeable surge in interest and registrations for introductory courses across these locations, so seize the opportunity and sign up while spaces last. Here's a glimpse into two prominent centers falling under the Seattle Parks and Recreation umbrella.

Website: greenlakecrew.orgEstablished: 1948Learn to Row: Engage in weekslong classes for $250 (financial aid available for qualifying families) starting in March. The comprehensive program covers boating safety, equipment handling, and rowing techniques. Jason Coffman, the program's overseer, emphasizes the incorporation of basic strength, mobility, and stability for enhanced performance and safety. Don't miss the chance to experience rowing with the free two-hour Intro to Row class.• Lake Washington Rowing Club (LWRC)

Founded: 1957Learn to Row: Dive into eight classes spanning three to four weeks for $280, commencing in April. These classes, conducted in small groups, focus on sculling in stable, single boats. Emphasis is placed on developing boat skills and acquainting rowers with larger boats. Private lessons are also available for those seeking personalized guidance. Membership stands at $86.25 per month.On the west side of Lake Union, meet the dynamic Lake Union Crew:

Lake Union CrewEstablished: 1998Learn to Row: Embark on 12 classes covering the fundamentals for $189, offered monthly from January 22. Classes cater to both morning and evening schedules, accommodating a variety of preferences. Private lessons are an additional option for those desiring individualized instruction. Membership is priced at $180 per month.Venture to the Pocock Rowing Center, a hub for adult rowers since 1994, officially launching the Pocock Rowing Club on April 1, 2023. Achieving nonprofit status in October, it's poised to become a key player in the rowing community. Join the movement, discover the thrill of rowing, and immerse yourself in Seattle's scenic waters.

Embark on Your Rowing Odyssey: Pocock Rowing Club's Learn to Row Program

Discover the art of rowing with Pocock Rowing Club's immersive Learn to Row program. Tailored for novices or those returning to the sport after an extended hiatus, this program spans twelve expertly coached classes over four weeks, providing a comprehensive introduction to the exhilarating world of rowing. Priced at $250, it's an opportunity to master the basics, whether you're stepping into a boat for the first time or rekindling your passion for the sport.

Duration: Four weeks, with twelve coached classesCost: $250Target Audience: Beginners or those returning to rowing after an extended breakMembership Perks:

For a monthly fee of $103, enjoy the benefits of an individual annual membership at Pocock Rowing Club. Membership includes exclusive access to the gym, showers, and lockers at the state-of-the-art Pocock Rowing Center. As a member, you're entitled to reserve and row club boats for free, enhancing your rowing experience on Seattle's picturesque waters.

Whether you're drawn to the tranquility of the rowing process or the physical challenge it presents, Pocock Rowing Club welcomes you to join their vibrant community. Unleash the rower within, hone your skills, and relish the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts. Embrace the water, embrace the rowing lifestyle with Pocock Rowing Club.

As the oars slice through the waters of Seattle, Pocock Rowing Club beckons both newcomers and returning enthusiasts to embark on a transformative journey through their Learn to Row program. With twelve expertly guided classes over four weeks, priced at $250, this program offers a gateway to the world of rowing for those stepping into a boat for the first time or rekindling their passion for the sport.

The membership perks, available for $103 per month, extend far beyond the program itself. As a member, you gain access to the top-notch facilities at the Pocock Rowing Center, including the gym, showers, and lockers. The freedom to reserve and row club boats at no additional cost enhances the value of membership, making it a comprehensive and fulfilling investment in your rowing journey.

Join Pocock Rowing Club, where the rhythmic pull of the oars becomes a metaphor for the community's unity and shared passion. Whether you seek the serenity of rowing or the thrill of physical exertion, Pocock Rowing Club offers an open invitation to embrace the waters, hone your skills, and become part of a vibrant rowing community in the heart of Seattle.