For people who enjoy rowing but who do not wish to race and cannot commit to training with a racing squad, there are opportunities to row recreationally. Generally, the club’s recreational rowers are experienced scullers who are able to row independently rather than with a formal squad.
Complete beginners need to participate in the Learn to Row course and Novice programme before being able to join the Recreational group, which typically uses small sculling boats. The club runs capsize drills so that members know what to do in the event of a capsize. We have several stable sculling boats to enable novices to gain the experience and confidence needed to move onto fine sculling boats.
Q & A with Cath
“The recreational rowers in the club might scull as individuals but we look out for each other when we are on the water and socialise together over a much needed cup of tea.
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How did the daytime recreational group start?
The group started when one of our former members suggested that daytime rowing could provide an opportunity to get out on the water more frequently, at times when the club is quieter. We are on a beautiful stretch of the river and rowing recreationally gives time to enjoy such a lovely environment and the wildlife living in and around it.
What kind of rowers come along to the daytime recreational sessions?
People working from home, people who work part-time, people who are working shifts, people who are retired. We are a mix of people who like to row leisurely and rowers who compete. Being confident and competent in a stable single sculling boat and having done a capsize drill are the main requirements.
How does recreational rowing differ from squad rowing?
The main difference is that you do not have to commit to attending regularly. You can just join for one session or row every week, or every month. There is also no set structure or a coach.
We help each other with carrying boats (if needed), look after each other on the water and socialise together over a much needed cup of tea.
What times do the recreational group row?
Mainly on Fridays and Sunday mornings. As long as there is a key holder and more than one rower, we can potentially row anytime we like.
How fit do you need to be?
You have to have a reasonable level of fitness but each individual can decide how hard they want to train.
