O&R Helps Rockland Rowing Launch Training Craft for Adaptive Athletes

PEARL RIVER, NY June 27, 2018 — O&R has donated $4,500 to help the Rockland Rowing Association (RRA) purchase a rowing barge, a specially designed vessel whose stability on water provides a safe platform to help train adaptive athletes (individuals with physical or cognitive challenges) in the sport of rowing.

That barge was launched during ceremonies Saturday, June 23 at Rockland Lake State Park in Congers. Scrimmage races, featuring adaptive athletes, followed the dedication ceremonies.

The new barge permits adaptive athletes to safely practice rowing without the potential of tipping over — a very real prospect in typical, narrow rowing shells. And, on a rowing barge, coaches and trainers can actually sit next to the rowers and physically assist the adaptive athletes with learning the correct rowing motion.

RRA currently trains a team of adaptive athletes but that training up until now has been entirely land-based, using rowing machines. The new barge lets the adaptive athletes get out onto the lake, feel the resistance as they pull the oar through the water, and enjoy the sensation of moving through the water under their own power.

Rockland Rowing Association is a 501c (3) nonprofit community athletic organization. Run by volunteers and a paid coaching staff, RRA is dedicated to improving people’s lives through the sport of rowing. RRA offers learn-to-row, recreational and competitive rowing programs to youth and adults. The group, which serves over 100 rowers from Rockland and the surrounding area, offers a welcoming and supportive community that provides rowing opportunities to all — regardless of an individual’s experience, abilities or background.

  OR, Orange & Rockland, rockland rowing association, rowing, RRA, Sports