If you want to learn to row, the best way to get your feet wet is to join us on one of our annual Youth Learn to Row Days. While Learn to Row days are the best way to learn and discover if rowing is for you, opportunities to join at other times are also available – contact the youth coach for more information.
Sign up for Youth Learn to Row on EventBrite.
Learn to Row Details
Overview
August 5 – August 8, 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM each day
Four 2-hour evening sessions, designed to give a first taste of the sport, hosted by Des Moines Rowing Youth at our Easter Lake boathouse.
Format
You’ll first need to complete a swim test on day one for safety. From there, you’ll learn the basics of the stroke on the erg (rowing machine), rowing terms, parts of the boat, and how to get in the boat and grip the oar. Next, you’ll go out in an eight-person boat in a mixture of new learners and experienced rowers. You’ll apply the same basics of the stroke you learned on the erg and become familiar with commands from the coxswain.
Limitations
Open to youth in Grades 8-12 (ages 12-18). Youth must be able to swim 200 yards without rest.
What to Bring
A swimsuit and towel for swim test on day 1. Students who cannot swim must wear a lifejacket in the boat. All other days: bring tennis shoes and socks, sunglasses or a hat, a water bottle, and any inhalers/medications you may need. If you wear shorts or tights they should be form-fitting. Baggy pants may get caught in the tracks on which your seat rolls back and forth.
In Case of Inclement Weather
The instructor will notify of a cancellation via text.
Waiver
All participants will be required to sign our waiver. We hope to distribute this electronically ahead of the event, but we will also have paper copies the day of the event.
Sign up for Youth Learn to Row on EventBrite.
What happens after Learn to Row Day?
Graduates of the LTR day may decide to continue by joining a season as a Novice in our Youth program. Seasons are divided into Spring, Summer and Fall and include training with the coach, and rowing 3-5 times/week to train for races. After one season as Novice in the Youth program, you will have the option to continue by joining the Des Moines Rowing Youth Program.
Questions?
If you have any questions about our Youth Learn to Row Day, Novice Program or the Youth Program, please contact our Head Coach.