Tampa Hosts Free Learn to Row Day: Join the Fun on the Water!

1001 N Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606, USA - This Saturday, Tampa is making waves—literally! The city is hosting a free event aimed at everyone interested in rowing, just in time for the summer. The City of Tampa is proud to participate in the US Rowing’s 7th Annual National Learn To Row Day. This exciting day of discovery is going to take place at the Tampa River Center, right at Julian B Lane Park. No experience is necessary, and all ages are invited to join in the fun!

Rowing has been making quite a splash lately, especially among high school students vying for college scholarships. Students like Plant High School freshman Megan Galey are proud of how their hard work has paid off, as both Team Tampa Rowing high school teams are heading to nationals, following recently clinching state championship titles. Her teammate, Robinson High School freshman Ethan Cerchio, shares that thrilling sense of achievement after winning gold in a nail-biting race. “I can’t wait to compete at the national level,” he exclaimed, adding that he holds aspirations of one day making it to the Olympics.

Event Details

For those looking to participate, the event is set for Saturday, June 7, with several two-hour session slots from 7 a.m. until noon. Each session will cater to groups of newcomers eager to try their hand at rowing, detailing a hands-on approach that begins on rowing machines followed by actual rowing on the water. The program, organized by the City of Tampa Parks and Recreation Department in collaboration with CANDO’s Team Tampa Rowing, promises a comprehensive introduction to this rewarding sport.

• Session Times: 7am – 9am, 8am – 10am, 9am – 11am, 10am – 12pm
• Cost: Free
• Target Audience: Ages 10 and up
• Session Breakdown:
  • 15 minutes for Sign In & Waivers
  • 20 minutes for Rowing Machine Technique Introduction
  • 60 minutes for Rowing on the Water
  • 25 minutes for Recap and Boathouse Tour

The good news doesn’t stop there. Local youth and adult rowing programs will also be present to share information about the range of rowing opportunities throughout the vibrant Tampa Bay area.

Growing Interest in Rowing

As rowing becomes more popular, fueled in part by Olympic excitement, Tampa’s rowing program has grown from a mere 16 students in 2018 to over hundreds now, with participants hailing from an astounding 86 schools in Hillsborough County. The sport is not only gaining traction among students; it’s appealing to newcomers in the community as well.

While Tampa continues its journey as a hotspot for recreational activities, other sports in the city are flourishing too, with basketball programs for kids aged 5 to 17 also gaining popularity, reflecting a robust focus on youth engagement in athletics. These programs offer everything from weekly training to summer camps, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

So, are you ready to row the boat? Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned athlete, join the festive atmosphere at the Tampa River Center this Saturday and get a taste of the sport of rowing. It promises to be a unique experience that you surely don’t want to miss!