Early Morning Rowing

12 May 2013Jack HL, Rogers ‘15

Whether you’re a morning person or not, there is something special about the morning rows at Brentwood: the crisp morning air, the reflection of the sun on the water, the feeling of breaking glass when you put your oar into the untouched, calm water. If you are not a rower and are brave enough to stagger out of bed on your sleep-ins, you can find numerous crews lining up at the 1500 meter mark ready to race.

As Mr. Backer calls out for the piece to begin, the coach boats roar to life as the rowers empty their tanks, pulling as hard as they can. As the shells cross the finish line, the rowers are relieved to know that they are done!

The first piece.

The boats head back up to do it again. These fantastic workouts often happen three mornings a week; it is world class.

With the staggered starts according to CCSRA gold medal time standards, our crews are able to challenge themselves against every other crew in a variety of boats. Where else can you get that many athletes out for such an early start and ready to work as hard? These intense workouts are to prepare for the National Championship in St. Catharines as well as upcoming local regattas.

With the sun rising over the water, the rowers get the best view of the dawning day. Although it can be exhausting (you feel as if you have to force yourself to get up in the morning, and by second block you are ready for a nap) it is all worth it for the breakfast afterwards, the camaraderie and the increasing boat speed.

See you at the 1500!

Jack HL, Rogers ‘15

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