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Technically a "Master" in rowing parlance is simply someone who can row and is over the age of 27. There are a wide range of talents and interest in our group. Some row recreationally, others compete in races locally and around the country.
You can participate at the level that suits you, however you will find that the more you practice, the more you will enjoy the sport.
Lifting Requirement: It's necessary to carry our boats from the boathouse to the water which means you must be able to lift approximately 30 pounds up and over your head and carry that weight on your shoulder.
Swimming: Riversport requires a swim test to be able to row without wearing a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) which is somewhat cumbersome for rowing. The boathouse does provide PFDs but you can also provide your own. Some that use a PFD chose to buy an inflatable type.
As rowing is a water sport, it's advisable to learn to swim in case of an emergency.
You don't need any special equipment to get started, Riversport provides the boats, oars, PFDs if required and coaches. As you progress you may want to buy a pair of rowing shoes that can be used in many of the club boats.
You may also consider investing in an "Erg" which is just a fancy name for a rowing machine. Riversport provides Ergs manufactured by Concept2. for use at the boathouse but many of masters also purchase for home use.
Most rowers wear fitted shorts or athletic pants and close fitting shirts. This is so that you don't get your shirt or shorts caught in the wheels of the seat when it slides forward and backward.
Currently the coached rowing group meets on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 6:00pm - 8:00pm, Saturday mornings at 7:00am-9:00am. A group of masters row early mornings weather permitting however there are no safety launches on the water so you are rowing at your own risk.
That's one of the great things about rowing, there is no season. Most masters participate year-round. On the water weather permitting or on the erg (rowing machine) when weather does not allow you to be on the water. If you are interested in competing, the "sprint" (1,000 meter race) season is spring and summer with the "head" season (long races 2.5K to 5K) in the fall.
When you join Riversport by buying an annual pass you have access to all of the "club" boats, the workout facility including Ergs, weights and other exercise equipment at the Chesapeake Boathouse and the Devon Boathouse.
You can also provide your own boat if space in the boathouse allows. Generally only those that wish to become very proficient and/or race on a regular basis buy their own boats.
As a member of Riversport you also have access to the Whitewater Facility for River Rafting and other Adventures. Check it out here.
Anyone who shares our values and is interested in [insert focus or values here] can join OKC Masters Rowing. We welcome individuals from all backgrounds and ages.
After you complete the learn to row series of classes you can participate in "Open Rowing" which usually runs from 6:00pm to 8:00pm Monday through Thursday.
Once you are more accomplished and have demonstrated the skills to be safe and self sufficient in a single you can join other masters in the early morning, usually from 6:00am to 8:00am
If the weather is bad which usually means winds over 15-20 mph depending on direction and/or lightening within 10 miles or it's just too darn cold to get out on the water, we gather at Chesapeake or Devon boathouse to erg as a group.
Rowing in cold weather can be very enjoyable but we always consider safety. Our rule of thumb is if the water temperature + the air temperature is under 100 degrees F, 4 oars on the water meaning a double or quad, no singles. If in double, erg.
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