National Learn to Row Day at Open Water Rowing Center

Once a year, US Rowing, the national organization that promotes rowing, sets one day aside for rowing organizations across America to open their boathouses and share information regarding the incredible attributes of rowing. This year US Rowing is promoting National Learn to Row Day on June 3, 2023.

To celebrate, Open Water Rowing Center (OWRC) will open its doors at the Liz Stone Boathouse located at the Schoonmaker Marina, Sausalito, CA. The Open House will be June 3rd from 9am – 12pm.

OWRC’s mission is to let people know what’s possible at the center including how to become proficient at rowing (or sculling) on San Francisco Bay, and advanced training sessions for rowers that want to glide under the Golden Gate Bridge. The Open Water Rowing Center promotes several aspects of nature including rowing for fitness, spotting the various wildlife habitats on Richardson Bay, and engaging with fellow rowers during group rowing sessions.

The Open House Program includes:

Greeting – Visitors that day will have an opportunity to view five areas at the Open House, including hands-on time on the water in a Coastal Rowing Boat departing from Schoonmaker Marina Beach. Visitors hoping to get a taste of rowing must sign a waiver and verify they can swim. Have a comment? Visitors can leave one in the guest book.

Inside the Boathouse there will be a running video display of Open Water Rowing Center rowers sharing their personal experiences of rowing the San Francisco Bay.

Fitness – There will be four ERG’s located outside the Stone Boathouse for guests to test their cardio mettle and refine their rowing technique.

Boathouse Tour – A guided tour of the Liz Stone Boathouse to review the various types of rowing boats, MAAS Open Water (Aero, Flyweight, 24, Double) Coastal Boats.

Schoonmaker Dock –The Schoonmaker Marina docks will be where the action is. Guests can see demonstrations by rowers launching and recovering their boats along with some active rowing close to the marina.

Schoonmaker Beach – At Schoonmaker Marina Beach, guests can row in Coastal Rowing Boats for a short distance.

Food & Drinks – Visitors looking for a nibble can pick up coffee, water, soft drinks, donuts, pastries and bagels at the Stone Boathouse.