Rowing Comes to BORP

On Saturday, June 17th BORP launched what we hope will become a regular activity – Adaptive Rowing.  Partnering with the Bair Island Aquatic Center (BIAC), the Berkeley Paddling & Rowing Club, and Oakland Strokes, BORP offered an ‘Open House’ to individuals interested in trying rowing. Over twenty individuals, with assistance and instruction from experienced volunteers, were introduced to rowing, first learning some basic rowing mechanics on land-based ergs before venturing into boats on Aquatic Park. On hand to help were two former Olympic rowers, Charles Alterkruse (1980 & 1988 Olympics) and Liz Miles (1984 Olympics). Our plan now is to train several Lead Volunteers who can staff regular rowing sessions beginning sometime in August. Stay tuned for more rowing opportunities.

BORP Participant learns to row at Berkeley Aquatic Park
BORP Participant learns to row at Berkeley Aquatic Park

 

Learning to row at BORP
Learning to row at BORP

 

All smiles after learning to row, a young BORP participant poses with two former Olympic rowers, Charles Alterkruse (1980 & 1988 Olympics) and Liz Miles (1984 Olympics).
All smiles after learning to row, a young BORP participant poses with two former Olympic rowers, Charles Alterkruse (1980 & 1988 Olympics) and Liz Miles (1984 Olympics).

 

Getting into the boat and ready to row at BORP's adaptive dock
Getting into the boat and ready to row at BORP’s adaptive dock