Why We Row

Rowing Thoughts and Testimonials

"Crew is a magical sport. Why I continue as a coxswain in this sport which I reap no physical benefit …well, the specifics are hard to explain to a non-rower. I do know, however, that there are certain moments, the many small glimpses of perfection, which reaffirm that I am exactly where I need to be. It’s the moment just after the race official calls “attention” before the start signal when every mind, body, heart, and soul of nine individuals locks into the water simultaneous with their blade. It’s the moment the sunrise casts its beams across the water at the end of a challenging practice. It’s the moment when we are dead even with the crew next to us, and I look over into the eyes of their coxswain during the last 500 meters of a race and prepare myself for the battle to the finish line. It’s the moment when I see two rowers finally bond in a relationship of trust, respect, and deep understanding after finishing a grueling erg piece together. It’s the moment I say something just the right way that the light bulb turns on in a rower’s head, and they row better because of it. It’s the moment when my energy and fire are reciprocated in my crew and we fly across the lake. It’s the moment when the boat is perfectly balanced, floating in the frozen time between the finish of one stroke -- and the start of the next – and the silence is so loud it’s deafening. These are the moments that make my heart whole and they keep me forever striving for the instant replay."
-Heather B.

"I began rowing in fall of 2009 as a challenge to learn a new vocabulary and new physical skills. With 7 grandchildren I thought it would be a good idea to stay mentally and physically active. I have not been disappointed. The Learn to Row was fun and immediately upon completing it, I was welcomed into a sweep boat and encouraged to be part of the boat team 2 to 3 times a week. I am loving those new friendships, I have found I am proud of myself and what I have achieved in becoming a better rower with both the coaches and coxes who are at our every practice. Best of all, rowing has made me more fit and actually reshaped my core and helped it to be very strong. So there is a health and wellness component that is an added benefit. The Orlando Rowing Club on Lake Fairview is a gem, open and welcoming and has lots of space for new rowers."
-Andrea E.

"We live in a civilized society where we hold the doors open for each other and say thank you, and I'm sorry.  But inside all of us warm blooded creatures lies this predatory potential, which we have seen unleash itself through out history: The Inquisition, the Holocaust, the Cultural Revolution, the Columbine Shootings, etc.  Many people have discovered ways to curb their animalistic side, whether that be through yoga, meditation, diet, fight clubs, or exercise.  I choose rowing.  Cranking out a piece on the erg after a hard day putting out metaphorical fires at work allows me to release all the frustration and tension with every drop of sweat, every grunt.  I can finish a piece on the water and go back to my civilized world, put on my corporate clothes, and deliver service with a smile.  And the discipline and self-confidence I get from planning a piece and carrying it out to fruition doesn't hurt in the real world, either.  So the next time I want to tell someone off, I just save it for practice, boats won't get hurt feelings or fire me."
-Lesley S.