Lakeland Rowing Club (LRC) hosted its largest-ever training camp at the Vermilion Provincial Park from July 21-23.
Twenty-seven participants travelled from Calgary Rowing Club, Central Alberta Rowing Club (Lacombe), and Edmonton Rowing Club, and four youths from the Next Gen program who showed promise for rowing.
President Kati White said, “For the past three years, this camp was used to prepare Team Alberta for the Canada Summer Games, but is no longer a part of it. The coaches loved it so much, they volunteered to come back for us to host it as a fundraiser. In such a small, little club with five or six members, we are really grateful; this fundraiser makes a big difference because rowing boats and oars are expensive. From a rower’s perspective, it’s a privilege to have access to this caliber of coaches. It’s a beautiful location, we have the longest course, and it’s an opportunity for the city rowers to see what we are all about.”
They were delighted to see everyone and that the weather held out with no wind or rain. Throughout the weekend, they would be highlighting the town and given free time to check out local businesses.
Masters rowers (over 18) worked on development, there were high-performance rowers (16-25) working on skills prep for the Royal Canadian Henley Regatta in Ontario, as well as novice rowers learning the tricks of the trade.
The Alberta Rowing Association’s (ARA) Provincial Technical Director, Mike Simonson said, “I’m really excited to be in Vermilion for the fifth time. It’s a highlight of the year, and a great opportunity to see athletes across the province.”
VP of Development for the ARA, Tim Fleming added, “I look forward to it every year; the venue here is extremely nice.”
LRC Head Coach Jenny McGuinness said, “Everything running smoothly is a testament to Katie’s organization; it all comes together because of volunteers. I like rowing because it’s always a challenge; there is always something you can work on. Whether you’ve never rowed or been doing it for 20 years, rowing is for everyone.”