Counties Manukau Rowing Club

Recently, Masters Rowing. The club is fortunate to have excellent facilities and the convenience of rowing on a long stretch of the Waikato River.

School rowing is a significant part of CMRC, with many local students participating in training. Currently, rowers from Rosehill College, ACG Strathallan, Pukekohe High, and Te Kauwhata College are involved. Interested individuals can inquire directly or contact their school sports office for more information.

CMRC is well-equipped and offers membership at a very reasonable cost. Membership fees are structured to include all camps, meals, and lodge accommodation throughout the season. Contrary to common belief, rowing at CMRC is not solely determined by early mornings. The majority of training takes place after school hours and at respectable times on the weekends.

Additionally, CMRC benefits from not having to contend with tidal rowing.

The rowing season at CMRC officially starts with daylight saving hours in late September and concludes for club rowers at the NZ Rowing Champs in February. School rowers, on the other hand, continue until the secondary schools' national championships in March/April, commonly known as the MAADI Cup. April is typically a rest month before winter training begins.

From May to September, CMRC operates in “winter training mode. ” Rowers can expect to be on the water in Mercer on Saturdays and Sundays, complemented by land-based fitness and erg sessions mid-week at affiliated school fitness centres. This flexibility makes it easy for rowers who also participate in winter sports.

As with any sport, rowing demands dedication and commitment. However, it offers great personal and team satisfaction. CMRC welcomes rowers of all abilities, whether they are newcomers or experienced athletes. Frequent updates can be found on their social media platforms, including the Facebook Members Page.

The CMRC Cook Book Fundraiser is currently underway, featuring a professionally printed cookbook that includes a personal favourite recipe from Kelsi Walters, a member of the New Zealand Rowing Women's Eight. There is also a dedicated Christmas section, making it a perfect gift for the holiday season. The cookbook is available for purchase at $35 each. Interested individuals can contact CMRC through their Facebook Page or Messenger.

Overall, Counties Manukau Rowing Club is a thriving community that provides excellent rowing opportunities for individuals of all ages and skill levels. With its picturesque location on the banks of the Waikato River and well-equipped facilities, CMRC is a club that values inclusivity and fosters a strong sense of camaraderie among its members.