I’ve found my next sport!
I rowed today for the first time in my life! It was an incredible experience — Especially since I had absolutely no frame of reference with which to place any preconceived notions on. All I knew before going out today was that I enjoyed being on the water, and even my past cadet experiences rowing a whaler (a really big, lug of a boat that also sails) didn’t leave me prepared for the absolute joy I felt after the first half an hour of stumbling along.
Jeremy had given me a head’s up a few weeks ago about today’s event — A friends and family row at the Vancouver Rowing Club. He’s been a member and an official for several years now, and suggested that I come out for this today. I’ve been toying with the idea of taking a closer look at this type of exercise for a while now, as my brother did a “learn to row” course a couple of seasons back, and seemed to really enjoy it. I’m so glad, as today’s preview really showed me the basics of what to expect while learning the sport.
I took Vern along, and even he said “It didn’t suck” — That’s a ringing endorsement, coming from Vern! As it was late in the afternoon, and we were the last of the bunch booked for today, it was only him and I that needed the learning process. So, after Jeremy showed us the Ergs (rowing machines) for a while to get the form down, Vern and I went into a four with two experienced rowers. At first I wasn’t sure what to make of it, as I felt really clumsy and I was obviously showing my newbie fumbling… But it wasn’t long before we were stroking pretty much in pace with the experienced rowers. Granted, I have a lot to learn, but man it felt nice to be able to keep up. Of course, having some excellent teachers helped the process greatly!
Apparently, the eights are a way easier shell for beginners, so the fact that Vern and I were doing pretty good in a four really pleases me. It’s always nice to have your confidence raised by doing fairly well your first time out.
So — This chick is definitely getting into rowing! It’s an awesome workout, and the people at that club were extremely helpful and friendly! I can’t wait to get started!!
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Speaking with a little bias as possible, for those of you who know rowing, I can tell you that she did great! She squared early (which was NOT something we taught her) kept good time with stroke, and by the end of it was opening up to really long strokes. She didn’t catch a single crab, and I think I saw her blade wash out once (although it might have been Vern) in the 3.6 Km or so that they were out there. And all in a four, no less.
They both did really great. I was chasing them in a coach boat, and when it was just Vern and Tanya rowing, I really had to be careful of my speed. A couple times my attention wavered, and next thing I knew, they were farther ahead of me than I expected.
Seriously, they’re both pretty good.
Look forward to seeing you on the water T!
I’ve always been curious about rowing! sounds like you so much fun and quite the work out for the arms!
We were ROWING? I thought I went hang gliding this morning!! Now I feel all ripped off and stuff.
Laura used to do competitive rowing. She LOVED it!
Next we’ll drag you out mountain biking for a real rush
Okay, its offical…my ass and right arm hurts like hell. So, im pretty certain it was rowing we did.
I can tell you for certain, my back is darn sore today, and it was most certainly rowing we did yesterday. I’m still full steam ahead to start the “learn to row” program as soon as I can! I can’t wait…
And you know, mountain biking is also another sport I’d love to try. I’ve always used street bikes in my past and never done any off-roading. What a sheltered life I lead, hey?
Colene, we should take the “learn to row” together! Minimal investment ($200 I think) and you get a month of rowing lessons 2 times a week by people who really know how to teach this stuff… I can’t think of a better way to get started. Not to mention, VRC (Vancouver Rowing Club in Stanley Park) is an awesome venue for the social aspect as well.
I’m giddy with excitement!
sure, sounds like fun! Plus it sounds like a good work out
Well, after today’s tragic event re: Girl of my Dreams, I may as well get into something that I can apply a consistant rythmic long stroking action to. &$%*!! A very pleasant call (yes yes YES), and then the typical “Im moving to NYC tomorrow” (NO NO NOOOOO). How unoriginal. At least the last girl moved to another continent.
Excellent! Two candidates to join in the fun… (poor Vern)
Anyone else want to take up rowing with us? It’s going to be AWESOME!