Rowers old and new up for a challenge

IS your workplace a hive of positive collaboration and teamwork?

Wendouree-Ballarat Rowing Club is looking for local businesses to express interest in joining their next Corporate Challenge.

Club captain, Alicia Ivory said the program showcases Ballarat enterprises and their collaborative representatives.

“The business will put forward a crew, they’ll have two training sessions a week with a coach and a cox provided by the club, then at the end of the series of sessions, they’ll compete in a corporate regatta,” she said.

“It’s been a great way for us to get a few more connections in the community, and we’ve had ongoing members join from that program.

“We expect that to run after Head of the Lake, and expect the government will implement a sustainable COVID safe approach to community sport where it’s non-contact, you can exercise outdoors, and we will be able to continue to row in crew boats.”

In the meantime, adults have returned to crew rowing in smaller and larger boats since COVID-19 restrictions eased, although the club is restricted to 10 rowers at a time.

Masters women have been well represented at the shed, and an under 18’s school holiday program was facilitated for teens in recent weeks.

“We’ve had a range of learners, and more experienced rowers wanting to get back on the water and refine their skills, and at a working bee we saw a return of members that haven’t had as much involvement on the water,” Ms Ivory said.

This term, Damascus and Phoenix colleges will return to the shed. Dragon boat clubs, Dragons Abreast and the Golden Dragons are coming back too.

Wendouree-Ballarat has a new learn-to-row program planned. For $50 per person, on-water sessions and coaching is accessible.

“To have quite a few weeks on the water in a balanced tub, learn the skills and get active while the weather keeps improving, that’s a great way for people to stop thinking about COVID.

“Get out, enjoy the lake and try something different,” Ms Ivory said.

While the shed was closed, Wendouree-Ballarat ran 26 weeks of online fitness programs for women. This will continue in the coming months, and is now open to men.

Any businesses interested in the Corporate Challenge can contact president, John King via [email protected].

Visit wbrc.com.au or facebook.com/Wendouree-Ballarat-Rowing-Club-217802138231772 for further information about trying rowing.