Whakatāne Rowing Club has a long history of success on the water and is always looking to the town’s youth to continue its legacy.

Twice a year, the club invites interested individuals to test themselves on the river. This year, the club canvassed local colleges in search of keen year 8 or older students, hoping to boost membership numbers and interest in the sport.

Over the school holidays, 20 enthusiastic students took part in a programme designed to introduce them to the basics of rowing and highlight the benefits the sport provides.

The sessions are continuing every Saturday from 10am to noon with the final session on November 1 – the club’s annual Rowing Festival day

Raewyn Iremonger, the club’s schools co-ordinator, was thrilled with the turnout.

“It’s a really good group this year. Most of these students will already have their summer sports sorted by now, so for us, this is about planting the seed for next year.

“One thing we don’t do is hold early-morning trainings – our sessions are after school, so students can just walk down to the club.”

Rowing coach Leighton Hale, along with several senior high school rowers, guided the prospective rowers through the stages and techniques of rowing while also sharing their own experiences in the sport.

Among the newcomers were students Harrison Jones and Darcey Simm. For Harrison, it was encouragement from his brother’s friends that prompted him to give rowing a try.

“I’d always seen the rowers on the river and wondered about it, so I thought I’d try it out,” he said.

Darcey’s story was similar.

“This is my first time trying rowing, but I have friends who are involved and really enjoy it. My parents also thought it would be a good way to stay fit.”

With opportunities for both juniors and adults, the Whakatāne Rowing Club is always ready to welcome new members to experience the challenge, camaraderie, and fun of rowing.