This past weekend, rowing clubs from coast to coast opened their doors for National Come Try Rowing Day, giving Canadians the opportunity to experience rowing firsthand in a fun, welcoming, and supportive environment.

Held from June 12–14, this year’s event saw over 1000 participants from over 30 rowing clubs across the country host introductory rowing sessions, community events, and on-water experiences for participants of all ages and backgrounds. Whether stepping into a boat for the first time or reconnecting with the sport after years away, attendees had the chance to discover what makes rowing such a unique and rewarding activity.

Growing the Rowing Community

National Come Try Rowing Day continues to play an important role in introducing new people to rowing and strengthening connections within local communities. Clubs across Canada welcomed families, students, adults, and community groups to learn basic rowing skills, meet club members, and experience time on the water.

This year’s events highlighted the passion and dedication of club volunteers, coaches, and members who helped create positive first experiences for participants nationwide.

Highlights from Across the Country

From small communities to major urban centres, clubs found creative ways to showcase rowing and share their passion for the sport. Across the country, organizers reported strong community engagement and enthusiastic participation from first-time rowers eager to get out on the water.

At the Saskatoon Rowing Club, participants embraced the opportunity to learn about rowing despite challenging conditions.

“National Come Try Rowing Day is a great opportunity to bring our community together and introduce new people to the sport of rowing. “We had an excellent turnout this year, and every year the sport of rowing keeps growing in the prairies, which feels really special. Events like these help build the club and community,” shared a coach from Saskatoon Rowing Club.

For many participants, rowing offered a new perspective on what the sport involves.

“It was a surprise to many that rowing requires focus and coordination; it’s not only strength and cardio. We welcome all to come and try rowing, as you may learn something about yourself along the way. To those who came out, we thank you for your determination and curiosity to try something new. Whether you stick with it or not, we hope you enjoyed it,” shared a representative from OARCA.

Meanwhile, Club d’Aviron Terrebonne welcomed an even larger turnout than anticipated, introducing many new people to the sport.

“We had a great day, with turnout exceeding our expectations. We met some wonderful people throughout the day, and we hope to see them back on the water with us to share the joy of rowing. I think many of them may have found a new sport to enjoy this summer!” says President of Club d’Aviron Terrebonne, Karine Legault

You can Come Try Rowing at other times of the season – please check out your local clubs for more information.

Did you participate in an RCA Come Try Rowing Event? Take Our Survey.

Thank You to Our Clubs and Volunteers

Rowing Canada Aviron extends its sincere thanks to every club, volunteer, coach, and participant who contributed to this year’s National Come Try Rowing Day.

The success of the event is a reflection of the rowing community’s commitment to welcoming new people to the sport and creating inclusive opportunities for Canadians to get active, connect with others, and experience rowing.

We look forward to building on this momentum and welcoming even more participants to the water in the years ahead.