Maidenhead Rowing Club, located in Maidenhead, offers a fantastic course called Learn to Row Junior. Designed for individuals aged 13–18 years, this course is perfect for beginners who want to learn the basics of rowing before diving into the club's activities.
During the Learn to Row Junior course, participants will be introduced to sculling, which involves using an oar in each hand. They will have the opportunity to try out different types of stable boats, depending on the current river conditions. It's a great way to get a feel for the sport and build a solid foundation.
Typically, the course intake includes both boys and girls in Year 7 at school. However, if there are available spots in the relevant squad, older participants may also be accommodated. Priority is given to siblings or offspring of existing members, children who attend or will attend a rowing school, as well as those who live closer to the club.
To apply for the Learn to Row Junior course, interested individuals can simply email junior-membership@maidenheadrc.org.uk. It's important to note that these courses have limited availability and are highly popular. Therefore, a selection process takes place, which includes an assessment day in the spring. Participants on the waiting list are the first to be contacted when new course dates are announced.
After successfully completing the Learn to Row course, juniors have the option to join the beginner's squad, which starts in September. Additionally, the club has organised summer camps in the past, which provide further opportunities for young rowers to develop their skills during the holidays.
The Learn to Row courses consist of six sessions, each lasting two hours. These sessions are held on weekends during the spring and early summer, allowing participants to enhance their technique before facing more challenging water and weather conditions in the autumn and winter periods.
It's important to mention that rowing is a physically demanding sport, and participants will be required to lift and carry boats during each session. Therefore, it's essential to have swimming ability as well. Before the course begins, there will be a 50-meter swim test conducted, with participants wearing light clothing.
Maidenhead Rowing Club takes pride in holding British Rowing accreditation as a Learn to Row Centre. Rest assured, the Learn to Row courses are led by experienced and accredited coaches, who will guide and support participants throughout their rowing journey.
For more information about Adult Learn to Row courses, please reach out to learn2row@maidenheadrc.org.uk. If you have any enquiries regarding Junior Learn to Row, feel free to contact junior-membership@maidenheadrc.org.uk. And for those who are interested in Adaptive Learn to Row, kindly get in touch with adaptiverowing@maidenheadrc.org.uk.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn rowing from the experts at Maidenhead Rowing Club. Take the first step towards becoming a skilled rower and join the Learn to Row Junior course today!
