President Rajbir announced that today's speaker and newest member, Vince De Cicco, was unable to do his Who Am I talk today. Fortunately, our very own Brian Waddell was able to offer us an oar-iginal presentation of his own as he shared his experiences with the Cambridge Rowing Club (CRC).  

 

Let's start off by mentioning that Brian did a Learn to Row workshop with the CRC eight years ago. Not long after, Brian became a Coach for the CRC and is now President, all of which demonstrates his ability to row to the finer ranks of a very impressive club. Brian came with many fine props that included a very sleek and singular Kacshper NX rowing shell. We admired the beast outside and noted it's very sleek and narrow build. Jim McP seemed impressed but most disappointed that it did not have a drink holder. I noted that, at a cost of $7K, the shell should come with a more padded seat. Brian mentioned that these shells come as singulars, doubles and quads.

 

Back indoors, Brian had a few Ergs (stationery rowing machines) set up for folks like Rena, Keith and Dr Tom to test drive. Brian also shared various photos of the club activities in Cambridge, Welland and the Head of the Trent (Peterborough). The CRC has its base at Riverbluffs Park which is just up the way from Wrinkle Walk (Jim Johnston and John Jonas can tell you more). FUN FACT is that some boats in Cambridge were rented out for the filming of Departure episodes (you'll find it on Prime TV).

 

The CRC offers year round training. In the winter, Ergs are used to practice and doing so in front of mirrors helps to check form - not just your own but of those around you. Brian mentioned something about Tayler Swift Tuesdays and I think it had to do with the indoor winter practice sessions although I can't be totally sure. Maybe it's a different club he belongs to. At any rate, I do know that the CRC's Learn to Row spring classes are already filled. Rena endorsed these sessions as she and her sister took part in them about ten years ago and it seems that folks are pretty keen to check this sport out. Rumour has it that a club outing to either row or picnic on the docks is in the planning Stay tuned for more info.

 

Keith Peers thanked Brian for being a Lifesaver and for doing his presentation so swimmingly. Personally I think Brian did such a good presentation on this topic that I think he should be officially acclaimed as our Club Oar-ator. :)