Our program guests this past week were President Gary Artim and Michelle Lobitz, External Vice President from the Lake Stevens Rowing Club. LSRC, formerly known as the NW Legends Rowing Club, was established in 1996 by seven individuals led by Bob and Barb Cummins. The original club was established in 1996 and was incorporated in 1997 as a non-profit organization. Initially the club was centered around occasional outings on the lake by residents.
In 1999, a formal partnership was formed with the City of Lake Stevens and the club's name was formally changed to the Lake Stevens Rowing Club. In the early beginning, all shells and equipment were second and third hand, either gifted or on loan from private individuals. In the Fall of 2002, a high school program was initiated by volunteers Scott Holmgren and Brian Wagner and has grown to over 40 team members.
Over the years, the Rowing Club has hosted many regattas including the NW Collegiate Rowing Championship. Funding raising efforts allowed the club to purchase and construct a boat shed which was completed in the Fall of 2006. Their members have won several US Rowing Regional Titles and their membership includes three US Rowing National Champions. Bob Cummins has received numerous awards starting in 2005. A new boat shed was recently completed at the North Cove area of the Lake.
Their Youth Program with about 54 kids began in 2006. Program declined in recent years especially caused by Covid-19. Opened the Youth Program with 14 kids recently. The program cost is $500 for a six-week session in July/August four days a week. The coaches are all paid for their coaching duties. Because of a declining population the Youth involved currently have been moved to the master's program. The Rowing Club wants to start the Youth Program again and is looking for sponsors to help fund the program. Restart the Recreational Program involving our youth in the community. Barb Cummins is responsible for restarting the Youth Program. Her husband, Bob died recently and was a big part of the success of the Lake Stevens Rowing Club. Looking for sponsorships and asking Rotary to be a sponsor. Sponsors pay 50% of the kid's fees. There is another rowing program on the lake. The North Cascades Crew was founded by former members and coaches of LSRC and was originally a BSA Venturing Scout program. NCC is no longer affiliated with the BSA.