This past weekend, rowing clubs across the country celebrated National Come Try Rowing Day, a nationwide initiative to introduce Canadians to the sport of rowing. From June 6th to 8th, local clubs welcomed individuals of all ages and experience levels for free, introductory sessions on the water. 

Participants had the chance to learn the basics of rowing in a safe, supportive, and engaging environment, guided by experienced coaches and volunteers. Whether new to the sport or returning to it, attendees experienced firsthand the teamwork and exciting atmosphere that rowing has to offer. 

Turnout and Results

This year marked one of the largest turnouts to date, with rowing clubs across the country opening their docks to their local community. Stay tuned for the official statistics as we collect information from participating clubs this past weekend. 

Highlights from Across the Country

New RCA Club: Salmon Arm Rowing Club – Salmon Arm, British Columbia 

“Our recent ‘Come Try Rowing’ event at the Salmon Arm Rowing Club was a huge success — the water was glassy, the boats were full of smiling faces of all ages, and our incredible volunteers made everyone feel welcome and confident. We wrapped it all up with a superb waffle brunch that had people lingering long after the last oar hit the beach. A perfect day on and off the water!” – David Miege, Rowing Coach, Salmon Arm Rowing Club 

St. John’s Rowing Club – St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador 

“St. John’s Rowing Club had a mixed range of youth and adults participate in Rowing Canada Aviron Come Try Rowing Day on Saturday at Quidi Vidi Lake. Good weather and water conditions were paired with great guidance from our coaches and the willingness to learn a new skill from the new rowers in the boat. All in all, a great day on the pond. As one would say in Newfoundland: “We think that’s right grand, luh!” – Emma Ramsay, Head Coach, St. John’s Rowing Club 

Club d’aviron de Boucherville – Boucherville, Québec

“This weekend was great! We are extremely proud to share our passion with our guests. All the volunteers and people who came out had an amazing time! In total, 77 people of all ages came out to our Come Try event and tried out our beautiful sport. They got the chance to see our boats, meet our staff, and even try a crew boat with our rowers. The wind didn’t stop us on Saturday, and we still took out our coastal boat!” – Club d’aviron de Boucherville

Central Alberta Rowing Club – Lacombe, Alberta 

“The event was fantastic, thank you to all the volunteers who looked after us. It was the most horrible fun I’ve had in a while! Lots of brain games, and much practice needed. Looking forward to another day on the water with sunshine!” – Kim Cressey, Participant, Central Alberta Rowing Club 

Rowing PEI – Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island 

“It was an absolute pleasure to welcome members of the Brazilian Association to our Come Try Rowing night at Brackley. The energy, enthusiasm, and curiosity they brought to the water was contagious. Events like this truly reflect the spirit of inclusion and community that rowing fosters.” – Erika Marcelo, Board Member and Event Organizer, Rowing PEI