Posted: 29 September 2020

Rowing clubs around Scotland have been developing innovative ways to engage with their membership during the challenging lockdown period. Scottish Rowing Club of the Year 2018/19, Glasgow Rowing Club, have ensured that their junior rowers were provided opportunities post-lockdown. This included bringing in new members using specific learn to row equipment, so much so there is now a waiting list at the club for new members.
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Ann Black, Glasgow Rowing Club treasurer said "Since the easing of restrictions and a return to the opening of Glasgow Rowing Club, our volunteer coaches have been working hard to provide every opportunity for our patient young rowers. When the club first opened up, we began with physically distanced ergs outside, then progressed to singles on the water. We have 2 Glides Ones boats which have stabiliers, meaning our new rowers can get out on the water straight away in a safe and fun way. We have gradually adjusted the height of the stabilisers to make the boat feel more like a fine shell, encouraging each of them to develop their manoeuvring and balancing skills and helping them to grow in confidence. We have managed to progress some of our juniors into single sculls with no floats and our older girls are making amazing progress."

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Andy Barton, Workforce Development Manager/Regional Development Manager West added "It's been wonderful to see many rowing clubs across Scotland adapting to the challenging times that we find ourselves in, not only by re-engaging current members but also recruiting new members. It's been particularly positive to see GRC, who had previously recognized the need to invest in some specific learn to row equipment, managing to put this to great use. This has undoubtedly helped to get more rowers out on the water and enjoying our sport."